Known as a business metropolis, São Paulo could come across as cold, a concrete jungle as it is referred to by some. Yet, São Paulo pulsates an exciting accelerated heartbeat, and is one of the most switched on global cities in the world, with an impressive and abundant diversity of ethnicities, styles, cuisine, culture, international events, museums, street art, music and fashion. The effervescent migration… Read more »
Local: São Paulo
Within close proximity to Ibirapuera Park, this property was designed by renowned architect Ruy Ohtake. The building has a modern abstract shape resembling a ship (or amusingly a sliced watermelon), quite striking at first glance. The entrance lobby is spectacular, with plenty of natural light, contemporary décor and modern art. The rooms and suites are white themed, with wooden flooring, round windows and high tech… Read more »
Conveniently located at Paulista Avenue you will find MASP, the museum holding the largest collection of occidental art in Latin America, pieces from European artists, as well as the biggest names in Brazilian and Latin American art. The collection gathers not only paintings, but sculptures, art pieces, photographs and garments from various historical periods. MASP offers art expos regularly, so check the event schedule for… Read more »
It makes sense that the city with the largest Japanese community outside of Japan should hold a top-tier venue dedicated to its culture. The Japan House is not to be missed: it has been recently inaugurated and combines art, technology and business. It offers visitors a vision of 21st Century Japan, taking into account its history and traditions. There is also a multimedia space with… Read more »
Take a day out to see São Paulo’s Old Town Center. It is an intriguing mix of urban disorder, with a mélange of buildings from the 20’s and modern glass skyscrapers. The narrow streets are occasionally occupied by transient folks, but look beyond the apparent chaos and be awed by the beauty of its old churches, cultural centers and museums. You will find Pátio do… Read more »
One of the largest parks in Latin America and the largest green space in São Paulo, Ibirapuera Park has many points of interest. Most buildings were designed by Oscar Niemayer and the gardens by Roberto Burle Marx, renowned Brazilian architects and landscape artists. The Modern Art Museum of São Paulo (MAM) is located inside the park. Built in 1948, it has more than 4000 works… Read more »
Vila Madalena is a symbol of young Paulistano bohemians. It has recently become hip, with young artists, intelectuals and local cool hunters flocking to the area, which comes alive after sunset with busy happy hours that go on into the night. Our preferred spot is Bar Astor (Rua Delfina 163), or any of the bars on Aspicuelta, Girassol, Wisard, Fidalga streets. You will also find… Read more »
Brazilians would have a hard time concealing their passion for football, or soccer, it is no secret they are aficionados. One way to experience this passion first hand it to watch a live football match. We recommend you visit Allianz Park, Palmeiras Football Clubs home ground, as it is the newest stadium and has good infrastructure. The stadium can be toured when there are no… Read more »
The accolades speak for themselves: rated 16th on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants for 2017, awarded two Michelin stars and considered one of the best restaurants in São Paulo. Brazilian chef Alex Atala adds a creative contemporary touch to typical Brazilian dishes, using innovative ingredients, many from the Amazon Rainforest, resulting in a true explosion of tastes. We’re partial to the meat with red wine… Read more »
Due Cuochi is amongst the best loved Italian restaurants for locals. The house, located in the Itaim neighborhood, is distinct for its green awning and glass façade. As you enter there is a bar next to the main room and a cozy ambiance throughout. The welcoming contemporary décor and service contribute to maintain Due Cuocchi’s reputation as one of the best restaurants of this genre… Read more »
In this authentic Parisian brasserie, with pictures of famous jazz masters, venues and events adorning the walls, you can enjoy great music as you delight in the amazing menu. An interesting selection, with several starters, sandwiches and reasonably priced typical French dishes. All starters look amazing, but every time we visit we order either the Parma ham bread or the baked cheese with honey. The… Read more »
São Paulo has the largest Japanese community outside of Japan and there are numerous options for sushi e sashimi. At Jam Warehouse you will not only find great food, but also art and music. Savor delicious recipes such as the exclusive Talmushi (sole fish with spicy ginger) or Ussuzukuri (finely sliced fish presented in a flower shape with wasabi sauce) accompanied with cocktails like the… Read more »
Helena Rizzo and Catalan Daniel Redondo met while working at the famous El Celler de Can Roca, a Spanish temple for molecular gastronomy. Here in the Jardins neighborhood, they take inspiration from their mentors and deconstruct, reinterpret and create unusual dishes with typical Brazilian tastes with fresh natural organic ingredients. We tried Maní and we loved it so much we rank this restaurant one of… Read more »
Wherever we are traveling, we always make a point of going to local markets, as we feel they exemplify and express local culture. At this market, located in Pinheiros, head to the upper floor and enjoy a meal at Mocotó Café, a sampler for iconic Mocotó Restaurant, which is located in a distant neighborhood but offers amazing typical dishes from Northern Brazil. We love the… Read more »
This restaurant has a classic ambiance in which all details are perfectly aligned, and the menu offers fantastic contemporary French cuisine. Established for over 20 years, it has maintained its high standards and quality and was recently named the best French restaurant in São Paulo. For starters we recommend the fried mussels or foie grass (duck liver pate) with figs, and for main course the… Read more »
This really tiny and modest venue serves delicious traditional Lebanese meals. You will often see lines of people on the sidewalk just outside awaiting their turn and sampling appetizers brought over by the attentive waiting staff. The highlight here is the food and, despite the humble setting, your meal will surely be delicious and satisfying. Tenda do Nilo is so well loved that some consider… Read more »
A classical Portuguese culinary reference in São Paulo, with a formal yet kind service. Enjoy an aperitif at the bar before being seated and savor the savory delicacies on offer. The menu is an exquisite offering of authentic Portuguese dishes and stays loyal to traditional recipes. The most sought after ingredient is their codfish, it features in about 15 dishes, such as the classic Lagareiro… Read more »
Paulistanos (natives of São Paulo) are pizza lovers with high standards, and you will often hear them say that the pizza in São Paulo is even better than the one in Italy. There are several outstanding Pizzarias around town, but Braz has been around for 20 years, since opening its first unit. The house is always at full occupancy and there are now several branches… Read more »
This attractive modern hotel is the darling of trend-setters and fashionistas, with regulars including Brazilian übermodel Gisele Bündchen. Ideally located in the Jardins neighborhood, it is close to fashion boutiques, art galleries and high quality bars and restaurants. The airy Lobby has enormous colored shiny glass windows, which make for a fun distorted view of the street. A delightful suspended orchid garden and golden rope… Read more »
Located in Jardins, close to refined restaurants and fashionable shops, the Porto Bay is an excellent choice for business and leisure travelers alike. This is a European style boutique property, with designer décor, neo-classical furnishings and Persian tapestry, harmonizing traditional luxurious comfort with contemporary touches. Accommodation is spacious and well designed, with very comfortable beds and large marble bathrooms. There is a very good in-house… Read more »
