Top 4 Places to Eat in Olinda

Scenic view of Igreja do Carmo and Atlantic Ocean in Olinda, Brazil, with lush greenery and palm trees.
Vitor Diniz, Pexels

Olinda's dining scene complements its historic charm with a blend of authentic Pernambucan flavors, fresh seafood, and international influences, offering a range of atmospheric settings for both locals and visitors.

1. Restaurante Beijupirá Olinda

Cuisine: Upscale Brazilian, Seafood

Nestled in a unique, treehouse-like setting, Beijupirá Olinda offers an exquisite dining experience. The menu features creative interpretations of Northeastern Brazilian cuisine, with a strong focus on fresh seafood, including highly recommended lobster and fish dishes. The atmosphere is visually stimulating, with beautiful views contributing to a memorable meal.

Price: R$ 150 - R$ 250+ per person (approximately $30 - $50+ USD)

Getting There: Accessible via a cable car ride up the steep slope of Pousada do Amparo, which is located within walking distance of Olinda's historic center.

2. Oficina do Sabor

Cuisine: Pernambucan Classics

Oficina do Sabor is renowned for serving authentic Pernambucan dishes, famously presented inside pumpkins. The restaurant provides a large terrace with sweeping views of Recife. Expect flavorful, traditional cuisine in an elegant setting, making it a popular choice for those seeking a refined taste of the region.

Price: R$ 120 - R$ 200 per person (approximately $24 - $40 USD)

Getting There: Located in the historic center, it is typically within walking distance from major attractions like Alto da Sé.

3. Don Francesco Trattoria

Cuisine: Italian, Homemade Pasta

Housed in a charming historic mansion, Don Francesco Trattoria offers a cozy and welcoming Italian dining experience. The focus is on homemade noodles and fresh ingredients, some sourced from their own backyard. Visitors praise the delicious dishes and variety of vegan options available, all served with excellent service.

Price: R$ 70 - R$ 130 per person (approximately $14 - $26 USD)

Getting There: Situated within the historic center, it is easily reachable by walking from most central accommodations.

4. Casa de Noca

Cuisine: Authentic Brazilian (focused menu)

Tucked away in a small alley, Casa de Noca offers a unique and incredibly authentic local dining experience. The menu is simple, focusing on a single, highly praised dish: cassava cooked with butter, sun-dried meat, and coalho cheese. Despite its simplicity, the food is described as delicious, providing a no-frills, cozy, and highly recommended meal for those seeking genuine local flavors.

Price: R$ 20 - R$ 50 per person (approximately $4 - $10 USD)

Getting There: Located in a small alley at the foot of the historic building of Academia Santa Gertrudes, making it accessible by foot within the historic district.