Browse by Cuisine
Restaurants in São Paulo
Showing 12 of 12 restaurantsSignature Dishes
Paulista cuisine is characterized by its diversity and adaptation of ingredients. From hearty, rustic dishes to sophisticated international flavors, São Paulo offers a culinary experience unlike any other in Brazil. Expect bold flavors, fresh produce, and a love for both traditional and innovative cooking.
Virado à Paulista
A traditional weekday lunch dish, consisting of tutu de feijão (mashed beans), rice, couve (collard greens), pork chop, sausage, fried egg, and torresmo (pork crackling). A hearty and filling meal showcasing Paulista culinary roots.
Pizza
Pizza is a staple in São Paulo, thanks to the large Italian immigrant population. Paulista pizza is known for its thin crust and wide variety of toppings, often deviating from traditional Italian recipes.
Pastel
A deep-fried pastry filled with various ingredients, such as ground beef, cheese, pizza flavor and hearts of palm. It's a popular street food and a common snack, especially during the 'feira' (street market).
Coxinha
A teardrop-shaped croquette filled with shredded chicken, cheese, and creamy catupiry cheese, then breaded and deep-fried. Another popular street food and snack, showcasing the Brazilian love for savory fried treats.
Feijoada
Although considered a national dish, feijoada is also popular in São Paulo. It's a hearty black bean stew cooked with various cuts of pork, beef, and smoked sausages. Served with rice, couve, farofa (toasted cassava flour), and orange slices.
Sanduíche de Mortadela
A massive sandwich overflowing with sliced mortadella sausage, often found at the Mercado Municipal (Municipal Market). A must-try for its sheer size and unique flavor.
Bolo de Fubá
A moist and dense cornbread, typically made with cornmeal, milk, eggs, and sugar. Often served with coffee and enjoyed as a snack or dessert.
Brigadeiro
Brazil's favorite dessert, this is a chocolate fudge ball made of condensed milk, butter, and cocoa powder, rolled in chocolate sprinkles. It’s often served at parties and celebrations.
Local Tips
To truly experience São Paulo's culinary scene, venture beyond the typical tourist spots and explore the local neighborhoods. Be adventurous, try new flavors, and don't be afraid to ask for recommendations from locals.
Explore Liberdade
São Paulo's Japanese neighborhood, Liberdade, offers an authentic taste of Japanese cuisine, from ramen and sushi to takoyaki and mochi.
Try the Pastel at a Feira
Experience the authentic taste of a pastel freshly made at a Feira Livre, accompanied by caldo de cana (sugar cane juice).
Venture to Bixiga
This historic Italian neighborhood is known for its traditional trattorias, offering authentic pasta dishes and a charming atmosphere.
Don't miss the Mercado Municipal
Visit the Mercado Municipal early in the morning to experience the bustling atmosphere and sample fresh produce. And be sure to try the iconic Sanduíche de Mortadela!
About São Paulo
Food History
São Paulo's cuisine is a vibrant melting pot, reflecting the city's history as a major immigration hub. Indigenous ingredients blended with Portuguese colonial influences, followed by significant waves of Italian, Japanese, Middle Eastern, and other immigrants, each contributing unique flavors and techniques that have shaped the region's culinary landscape.
Food Culture
Food is an integral part of São Paulo's social fabric. Gathering around a table, whether at a sophisticated restaurant or a bustling street market, is a cherished tradition. Sharing meals fosters connections and reflects the city's diverse and welcoming spirit.
Feiras Livres (Street Markets)
These vibrant markets offer a glimpse into local life, showcasing fresh produce, street food, and a lively atmosphere. They're a great place to sample local delicacies and experience the city's culinary diversity.
Mercado Municipal (Municipal Market)
A historic landmark and a food lover's paradise, the Mercado Municipal is packed with stalls selling exotic fruits, spices, cheeses, meats, and other delicacies. It's also home to the famous Sanduíche de Mortadela.
Rodízios (All-You-Can-Eat)
Rodízios, particularly churrascarias (barbecue restaurants), are popular dining experiences. Servers circulate with skewers of grilled meats, offering a seemingly endless supply of deliciousness. There are also Rodízios of pizza, pasta, and other types of food.
Botecos (Informal Bars)
Botecos are informal bars that serve cold beer, cachaça (a sugarcane liquor), and simple snacks like coxinhas and pasteis. They are a gathering place for friends and colleagues, reflecting the relaxed and social aspect of Paulista culture.