Overview
Brazilian Specialties
There are several dishes unique to Brazil. Feijoada (fay-show-ah-dah) is the most renowned traditional specialty in Brazil. It is a combination of Portuguese and African influences and consists of black beans and pork heated up to make a stew. Traditionally, sliced oranges, stir-fried manioc called farofa, sliced kale called couve mineira and rice accompany this stew.Rio is also known for its pastries and snacks that are easily bought on the streets. One of the more common pastries is coxinha, which is similar to a chicken nugget. Joelhos are ham and cheese dough balls and pao de queijo consisted of cheese baked in dough.
In a city with warm climate and seaside like Rio de Janeiro, eating habits follows the cultivation of soft foods, which can be found in traditional juices stores in the South Zone of Rio. With this in mind, a classic success is the fruit pulp of Açaí, that can be mixed with banana or strawberry and granola. You can find Açai at the beach as well.
Types of Restaurants
Rodízio dining has become quite popular of late in Rio de Janeiro. This is an all-you-can-eat concept with the most common being churrascaria. Churrascaria is an all-you-can-eat restaurant where waiters travel through the dining room with meat on skewers. Rodízio dining is also seen in seafood restaurants, pizza parlors and snack cafes. Chopperias are very casual snack shacks that serve mostly cold beer and munchies. Their more upscale cousins are the botequims akin to a pub in England or a bar in the United States. Kilo restaurants are another popular type of dining. In these establishments food is laid out buffet style. Diners pay by the weight of the food they consume.
Cost of Dining Out
Dining out in Rio is a lot less expensive than dining out in America.
Price ranges vary according to the place and what kind of food you want to eat. But you will certainly find a restaurant that fits your budget and your stomach.
What You Should Know Before Dining Out
Before heading into a restaurant check the menu posted at the door and make sure they take credit cards. A 10% tip is always added to the bill (although, not compulsory) but feel free to give more for exceptional service. Water is not served on a regular basis, you must ask for bottled water. Do not be afraid of the ice served with a drink as all restaurants use filtered water. It is standard to drink fruit juice with your meal. Be sure to ask for some as it is always fresh squeezed and quite delicious. Most meals start with a couvert containing bread, rolls and spread. You will have to pay for it. Standard portions are often big enough for two people so ask before you order.
Cariocas love their food. Restaurants in Brazil are aware of this passion and take time to seek out only the highest quality ingredients. Seafood, steak, Italian, French, or Asian, it does matter, you are sure to get a very tasty meal.
