Ask The Concierge: Anderson Azevedo

The best local dish to order for breakfast?

You simply can’t come to Brazil and not try our Pão de Queijo. These puffed balls of cheese bread are a staple snack among Brazilians and they are best accompanied by an espresso in the morning – but at most meals, there will be cheese bread on the table. My favourite place to find them is NEMA.

The best walk to do to really experience Rio de Janeiro?

Once you leave the front doors of Copacabana Palace, there is nothing better than starting your morning with a pleasant walk to the Ipanema neighborhood along the beach. The beautiful boulevard here was designed by Brazilian landscaper Roberto Burle Marx and it’s the best way to take in the city.

I suggest a gentle stroll along the first beach before cutting inland briefly. Then, hit the second beach Ipanema, famous of course, because of the song “The Girl from Ipanema”. Stop at the Classico Beach Club Ipanema for a cold glass of local coconut water or some traditional Açaí.

The best coffee shop to visit to feel like a local?

Away from the tourist spotlight, Da Casa da Táta is a refuge for comfort and simplicity located in a small house in the Gávea district. You will find authentic recipes that will guarantee good memories and an explosion of flavors.

The best place to visit to bring home something special that you can’t find anywhere else?

There are two unique places that are true treasures and not much explored – I’m sure they’ll surprise you. Crab, a gallery that exhibits and sells the best of Brazilian crafts. It hosts a selection of special works, crafts, and furniture that bring the country’s culture and encourage contact with national production.

And la Fábrica Bhering : currently a complex of studios for photographers, visual artists and artisans, it’s located by the port. Brazilian art and design are everywhere at the Bhering: don’t miss the Abstrato studio with vibrant and creative sculptures and the Icon Gallery, whose photos reflect the Brazilian culture.

The best place to head to for a quick working lunch?

Toto is located in a beautiful mansion on Rua Joana Angélica, in Ipanema. The neighborhood is known as the gastronomic hub in Rio, and Toto is a casual contemporary bistro with an uncomplicated menu that I love.

The best place to book a romantic dinner for two?

Grado. It’s housed in a small double-story house decorated with books and art objects, low lights in an intimate atmosphere where you’ll be sure to have a romantic and memorable evening in Rio.