Top 6 Places to Eat in São Paulo

Written by Alexander Kopp, Maria Gaulto, Maria Vajello
06/08/2025
Amazing view of modern urban district in Sao Paolo with futuristic bridge and constructions over river during clear day
Bruno Mancini, Pexels

São Paulo's dining scene is a vibrant tapestry of global and regional Brazilian cuisines, offering an impressive range of experiences from casual street food to acclaimed fine dining.

1. D.O.M.

Cuisine: Innovative Brazilian, Amazonian

D.O.M. offers a groundbreaking culinary journey through Brazil's diverse ecosystems, with Chef Alex Atala transforming indigenous Amazonian ingredients into sophisticated dishes. Expect a multi-course tasting menu that challenges perceptions of Brazilian cuisine, sometimes featuring unique elements like Amazonian ants. The ambiance is refined, providing an intimate setting for an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Reservations are highly recommended and often essential.

Price: Tasting menu from R$760 to R$930 (approximately $150-$185 USD per person), excluding drinks.

Getting There: Located in the upscale Jardins neighborhood, it is best reached by taxi or ride-share. The nearest metro stations, like Consolação or Paulista, would require a short taxi ride or a longer walk.

2. A Casa do Porco

Cuisine: Pork-focused Brazilian

Translating to 'The House of the Pig,' this highly acclaimed restaurant celebrates pork in every imaginable form, from snout to tail. The atmosphere is lively and informal, yet the dishes showcase sophisticated techniques and flavors rooted in Brazilian countryside traditions. A signature dish is the 'Porco Sanzé,' a whole pig slow-roasted for hours. A tasting menu is available, alongside à la carte options including more casual offerings like a hot pork sandwich. Expect queues if visiting without a reservation, which are highly recommended.

Price: Average price per person around R$125 (approximately $25 USD) for à la carte. Tasting menu from R$200 (approximately $40 USD).

Getting There: Situated in the bustling city center, A Casa do Porco is easily accessible via the metro to Republica or Anhangabaú stations, followed by a short walk, or by taxi/ride-share.

3. Jiquitaia

Cuisine: Modern Brazilian

Jiquitaia provides an experience of comforting, authentic Brazilian cuisine within a charming setting. The restaurant, housed in a 1950s building, features a well-decorated dining room. Chef Marcelo Corrêa Bastos presents traditional dishes with a contemporary touch, utilizing ingredients from across Brazil. Signature items include the 'coxinhas de frango caipira' and a variety of fish dishes like moqueca. The extensive cachaça list is also a highlight, making it ideal for those wanting to explore Brazilian spirits alongside their meal.

Price: Main courses range from R$105-R$260 (approximately $21-$52 USD).

Getting There: Located in the Paraíso neighborhood, it is conveniently located near the Paraíso and Vergueiro metro stations, making it easily accessible by public transport or taxi/ride-share.

4. Estadão

Cuisine: Brazilian Diner / Sandwiches

A true São Paulo institution, Estadão is a 24-hour lanchonete renowned for its hearty and satisfying pork leg sandwich ('sanduíche de pernil'). This no-frills, bustling spot has been serving locals for over 50 years, catering to everyone from early birds to late-night revelers. It offers a quick, affordable, and authentic taste of São Paulo's street food culture. The experience is fast-paced; find a spot at the counter, order, and your food arrives quickly.

Price: Sandwiches generally cost around R$30-R$40 (approximately $6-$8 USD).

Getting There: Located in the historic city center, Estadão is a short walk from the República or São Bento metro stations. It's also easily reachable by taxi or ride-share.

5. Lamen Aska

Cuisine: Japanese Ramen

Located in the heart of Liberdade, São Paulo's vibrant Japanese neighborhood, Lamen Aska is a long-standing establishment known for serving delicious and affordable ramen. This straightforward, no-nonsense eatery focuses on a concise menu of ramen variations and gyoza, ensuring quality and efficiency. It's a popular spot, and after finishing your meal, the check is promptly delivered, encouraging a steady flow of customers.

Price: A bowl of ramen costs around R$20 (approximately $4 USD).

Getting There: Lamen Aska is in the Liberdade neighborhood, directly accessible by the Liberdade metro station, making it very convenient for public transport users.

6. Municipal Market (Mercadão)

Cuisine: Brazilian Market Food / Various

The Municipal Market of São Paulo, or Mercadão, is more than just a place to eat; it is a vibrant cultural experience. Since 1933, this architectural icon has been a hub of activity, filled with the aromas of exotic fruits, spices, and sizzling foods. A visit is incomplete without trying the towering mortadella sandwich, a local legend. The market is packed with various vendors and bars, offering a lively and genuine atmosphere where both locals and tourists converge to savor diverse Brazilian flavors.

Price: Mortadella sandwiches typically range from R$40-R$60 (approximately $8-$12 USD), with other market eats varying.

Getting There: Situated in the historic center, the Mercadão is easily accessible by metro, with São Bento or Luz stations being the closest. It is also a common stop for taxis and ride-shares.

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