best-places-to-eat-in-Salvador Da Bahia
Savoring the Flavors of Salvador da Bahia: A Guide to the Best Places to Eat
Salvador da Bahia, the vibrant capital of Brazil’s northeastern state, is a culinary paradise that will tantalize your taste buds with its rich Afro-Brazilian heritage. From mouth-watering street food to cozy restaurants serving traditional dishes, Salvador offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Here are the best places to eat in Salvador da Bahia, with a focus on popular street food options:
Street Food Heaven
1. Acarajé
These crispy fried dough balls filled with peanuts or cashews are a staple snack in Salvador. You’ll find vendors selling acarajés at every corner, especially in the historic center.
2. Abara
This traditional dish from Afro-Brazilian cuisine is made with steamed cassava leaves stuffed with spices and herbs. Find aba vendors near the Mercado Modelo or in the streets of Pelourinho.
3. Tacacá
A refreshing street food favorite, tacacá is a soup made with shrimp, coconut milk, and spices, served in a gourd bowl. Look for vendors in the historic center or at the beachside promenade, Orla Marítima.
Restaurants
1. Maria de São Pedro
This cozy restaurant in the historic center serves traditional Bahian dishes like vatapá (shrimp stew) and xinxim de galinha (chicken with peanuts). Try their delicious breakfast options too!
2. Restaurante do Porto
Located near the harbor, this restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes, including fresh fish grilled to perfection. Enjoy stunning views of the Bay of All Saints while savoring your meal.
3. Café Brasiliero
This charming café in the trendy neighborhood of Rio Vermelho serves delicious breakfast and brunch options, including açaí bowls and sandwiches made with freshly baked bread.
Markets
1. Mercado Modelo
This bustling marketplace offers a variety of food stalls selling fresh fruits, nuts, and street food favorites like acarajé and aba. It’s an ideal place to sample local flavors and mingle with the locals.
2. Feira de São Joaquim
Every Saturday morning, this market in the historic center transforms into a culinary haven, featuring vendors selling traditional dishes, fresh produce, and handicrafts.
Tips and Essentials
- Be sure to try the local drink, cachaça, a sugarcane spirit that’s often enjoyed with lime and sugar.
- Don’t miss the Afro-Brazilian cultural events and festivals, which offer a unique opportunity to experience the city’s rich heritage.
- When eating at street food stalls, make sure to choose vendors with good hygiene standards and fresh ingredients.
- Learn some basic Portuguese phrases, like “obrigado” (thank you) and “quanto custa?” (how much does it cost?), to enhance your culinary adventure.
In Salvador da Bahia, the aromas of Afro-Brazilian cuisine will tantalize your senses, and the warm hospitality of the locals will make you feel at home. So, come hungry and ready to indulge in this culinary paradise!