Rio de Janeiro’s dining scene is one of the most vibrant in Latin America: a mix of world-class fine dining, innovative contemporary cuisine, beloved neighbourhood spots, and quintessential Brazilian flavours. We’ve compiled a list of the best restaurants in Rio de Janeiro today, reflecting today’s standout culinary trends and local favourites.
1. Oro (Leblon): Chef Felipe Bronze’s two-Michelin-star restaurant remains one of Rio’s most inventive dining experiences. Oro’s tasting menus celebrate Brazilian ingredients through smoke-kissed dishes, bold flavours, and theatrical presentations. The service is impeccable, and the atmosphere strikes a balance between relaxed and refined; very carioca, but elevated. Head there for cutting-edge Brazilian gastronomy and one of the city’s most polished fine-dining experiences.
2. Lasai (Botafogo): Widely regarded as one of Latin America’s top restaurants, Lasai operates with a hyper-seasonal philosophy. Much of its produce comes from its own organic garden, resulting in delicate, vegetable-forward tasting menus that change daily. The dining room is intimate, and the experience feels curated and thoughtful at every step.
3. Oteque (Botafogo): Chef Alberto Landgraf brings precision, minimalism, and exceptional produce to Oteque. Expect a seafood-leaning tasting menu, masterfully balanced flavours, and a sleek dining atmosphere. Oteque continues to earn accolades for its subtlety and technical brilliance, appealing to diners who appreciate Japanese-influenced refinement blended with modern Brazilian cuisine.
4. Térèze (Santa Teresa): Set in the charming hillside neighbourhood of Santa Teresa, Térèze offers contemporary cuisine with French influences and picture-perfect views over Rio. The dishes are elegant but comforting, making it ideal for a leisurely lunch or romantic dinner.
5. Lilia (Centro & Botafogo): Lilia champions modern Brazilian cuisine with imagination and balance. Known for its accessible lunchtime prix-fixe menus in Centro and its vibrant à la carte dining in Botafogo, Lilia has become a favourite among locals who crave quality without pretension, and flavour-forward, modern cooking at a great price.
6. Alloro al Miramar (Copacabana): One of Rio’s most respected Italian restaurants, Alloro offers homemade pastas, excellent seafood, and attentive service — all set against Copacabana’s iconic beachfront. The cuisine is refined without being fussy, making it a favourite for both celebrations and casual elegance.
7. Churrascaria Palace (Copacabana): Rio wouldn’t be Rio without traditional churrasco, and Churrascaria Palace stands out as one of the best, and a quintessential Rio BBQ experience. Expect premium cuts served rodízio-style, a rich salad bar, and classic Art Deco charm. Locals love it as much as visitors.
8. Marius Degustare (Leme): Part seafood house, part churrascaria, part theatrical experience – Marius Degustare is an all-you-can-eat institution with a focus on premium ingredients and playful presentation. The décor is eclectic and memorable, presenting a lively, indulgent dining adventure unlike anywhere else in town.
9. Zazá Bistrô Tropical (Ipanema): A longtime Ipanema favourite, Zazá blends global inspirations with tropical ingredients. Think coconut curries, citrusy ceviches, and playful cocktails. The setting is cozy, colourful, and unmistakably Rio.
10. Masserini Osteria di Mare (Ipanema): A dependable favourite for seafood-focused Italian cuisine, Masserini serves outstanding pastas, risottos, and grilled fish. It’s elegant but relaxed, perfect for a leisurely dinner after a day at the beach – elegant coastal Italian food with carioca charm.
Rio’s best restaurants today balance bold creativity with the warmth and spontaneity that define the city. From Michelin-star tasting menus to neighbourhood gems, each of these dining spots captures the spirit of a city that knows how to celebrate life – especially through food.
