Restaurant Roulette with Suzanne! November Issue!

Greetings from Rio de Janeiro!
This month, I had the pleasure of choosing our dining spots, while Rachael and I embarked on an unforgettable tour through Brazil, complete with the breathtaking Iguaçu Falls, and even made a stop in Buenos Aires, Argentina. It was an incredible adventure filled with stunning sights and delicious flavors.

We kicked off the afternoon at Praia Chopp Brahma, a charming beachside café along the iconic Copacabana Beach. The star of the drink menu was the caipirinha, Brazil’s most popular cocktail. It reminded me of a margarita, but with a twist – crafted from sugarcane spirit, lime, and sugar. Refreshing and full of character!

For snacks, we sampled two local favorites:

Bacalhau – crispy codfish balls, golden and savory.

Feijoada – fried black bean balls, rich and hearty.

Both were served with zesty dipping sauces and fresh lime wedges, simple yet bursting with flavor. We couldn’t have asked for a better start to our culinary journey.

And then came a sweet surprise: a woman approached us at the beach bar selling delicate pink paper-wrapped candies. She explained that her students make them to raise money. A lovely gesture that made the treat even more special.

 

 

After our beachside indulgence, we strolled along Copacabana and decided to try Meia Pataca, an outdoor restaurant with a lively atmosphere.

Rachael ordered a steak, while I opted for grilled pork, served with a generous spread of sides: fries, rice, black beans, and a spicy sauce for a kick of heat. The food was average, but the service was warm and welcoming. Fun fact: in Brazil, French fries seem to come with everything!

Next, we headed to BR—Best Rio for dessert and coffee.

The highlight? A decadent chocolate cake layered with caramel and topped with a thick, glossy ganache. Paired with rich, aromatic espresso, it was pure bliss. Coffee in Brazil is always a treat – bold, smooth, and deeply satisfying.

Both Brazil and Argentina are famous for their beef, and it’s easy to see why. In many places, slabs of meat hang on hooks above smokers, slowly roasting throughout the day.

One afternoon, we discovered a charming little chocolate shop. The experience was delightful: we ordered double espressos, and the staff handpicked three exquisite pieces of chocolate for each of us. Every bite was a tiny masterpiece. What a treat!

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Great trip!! Until next time, happy eating.