best-places-to-eat-in-Curitiba, Brazil

Discovering the Flavors of Curitiba: A Guide to the Best Places to Eat

Curitiba, the capital of Paraná state in southern Brazil, is a treasure trove of culinary delights. This vibrant city offers a diverse range of flavors, from traditional Brazilian dishes to international cuisine. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to eat in Curitiba, with a focus on popular street food options.

Street Food Heaven: Largo da Ordem

Largo da Ordem is a bustling square in the heart of Curitiba’s historic center, surrounded by colonial-style buildings and filled with the aromas of delicious street food. Here, you’ll find:

  • Açaí bowls: Fresh açaí berries blended with granola, honey, and banana, served in a bowl for R$10-R$15 (approximately $2.50-$3.75 USD).
  • Churros: Crunchy, sugary fried dough pastries coated in cinnamon, perfect for dipping in chocolate or caramel sauce for R$5-R$10 (approximately $1.25-$2.50 USD).
  • Coxinhas: Crispy, savory pastry pockets filled with shredded chicken, catupiry cheese, and spices for R$5-R$10 (approximately $1.25-$2.50 USD).

Other Must-Try Street Food Spots

  • Feirarte: Every Sunday, the Feirarte market in the Largo da Ordem square offers a variety of street food stalls serving dishes like grilled meats, empanadas, and pastels.
  • Rua XV de Novembro: This pedestrian street is lined with cafes, restaurants, and street food vendors offering snacks like pão de queijo (cheese bread) and quentão (a type of pastry filled with cheese or chocolate).
  • Mercado Municipal: Curitiba’s bustling market offers a variety of fresh produce, meats, and prepared foods, including popular street food options like acarajé (fried dough filled with peanuts or coconut) and tacacá (a soup made with shrimp, coconut milk, and spices).

Restaurants Worth Visiting

  • Café do Teatro: Located in the historic center, this cozy cafe serves delicious coffee, sandwiches, and pastries.
  • Restaurante Porto de Lisboa: For a taste of traditional Portuguese cuisine, head to this popular restaurant serving dishes like bacalhau à brás (cod with potatoes, onions, and scrambled eggs) and frango grelhado (grilled chicken).
  • Bistro Bela Napoli: This charming bistro offers a range of international dishes, including pasta, pizza, and sandwiches.

Tips and Insights

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular street food spots, especially during peak hours.
  • Try to visit Largo da Ordem on weekdays or early mornings to avoid the weekend rush.
  • Don’t be afraid to try new flavors and dishes – Curitiba’s culinary scene is all about experimentation and fusion!
  • Many restaurants and cafes offer outdoor seating areas, perfect for enjoying the city’s pleasant weather.

With this guide, you’re ready to embark on a culinary adventure in Curitiba! Savor the flavors of this vibrant Brazilian city and enjoy the warm hospitality of its people.