DINING ON A BUDGET IN RIO DE JANEIRO

Big Bi

  • Overview: Big Bi is a popular local spot in Copacabana known for its affordable and tasty Brazilian snacks. It’s a casual eatery where you can enjoy coxinhas (chicken croquettes), pastéis (pastries), and other street food items without breaking the bank.
  • Recommended Items: Coxinha, Pastel de Queijo (cheese pastel).
  • Average Price per Person: From BRL 15-30.
  • Address: Rua Santa Clara, 787 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro.

Cervantes

  • Overview: Cervantes is a well-loved sandwich joint in Copacabana, famous for its generous portions and reasonable prices. The menu features a variety of sandwiches, including the popular “Sanduíche de Pernil” (pork leg sandwich).
  • Recommended Items: Sanduíche de Pernil, Bauru Sandwich.
  • Average Price per Person: From BRL 20-40.
  • Address: Avenida Prado Júnior, 335 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro.

Feira Livre de Copacabana (Copacabana Street Market)

  • Overview: For an authentic local experience on a budget, explore the Feira Livre de Copacabana, the street market in Copacabana. You’ll find stalls offering fresh fruits, snacks, and affordable street food options. It’s a great place to sample local flavors without spending a lot.
  • Recommended Items: Fresh fruit slices, Acarajé (Brazilian street food).
  • Average Price per Person: Varies (affordable).
  • Address: Copacabana neighborhood, various locations.

Bar do Adão

  • Overview: Bar do Adão is a popular bar and snack spot with multiple locations in Rio de Janeiro. Known for its casual atmosphere and affordable prices, it’s a great place to enjoy Brazilian snacks and drinks without breaking the bank.
  • Recommended Items: Pastel de Carne (meat pastry), Kibe (kibbeh).
  • Average Price per Person: From BRL 15-30.
  • Address: Multiple locations in Rio de Janeiro.

Botero Café

  • Overview: Botero Café, located in the city center, is a cozy coffee shop known for its budget-friendly menu. It’s an ideal spot for a quick coffee break or to grab a light meal without spending too much.
  • Recommended Items: Espresso, Croissant, Salgados (savory pastries).
  • Average Price per Person: From BRL 10-25.
  • Address: Rua São José, 35 – Centro, Rio de Janeiro.

Armazém do Chopp

  • Overview: Armazém do Chopp is a laid-back bar in Copacabana offering affordable beers and bar snacks. It’s a popular spot among locals for a casual evening with friends.
  • Recommended Items: Chopp (draft beer), Bolinho de Bacalhau (codfish balls).
  • Average Price per Person: From BRL 20-40.
  • Address: Rua Domingos Ferreira, 215 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro.