Rio de Janeiro’s nightlife is a celebration of rhythm, flavor, and good company. Whether you’re dancing to samba beats in Lapa or relaxing by the beach at sunset, a cold drink is always part of the experience.

Locals love their caipirinhas, made with cachaça, lime, and sugar, but you’ll also find ice-cold beers, batidas (sweet fruit cocktails), and refreshing coconut water straight from the shell. And of course, every great drink deserves something tasty to go with it.

Here are some of the top bar foods to try in Rio:

Bolinho de bacalhau

A portion of cod fish cakes which are originally from Portugal, and which are huge here. Where to try: Bracarense (Leblon)

Porção de pasteis

Portions of deep fried wontons which come in different flavors (beef, shrimp, or cheese). Where to try: Belmonte (Ipanema or Copa) 

Aipim frito

Deep-fried cassava, a stringy cousin of the potato. Where to try: everywhere! 

Carne seca com aipim

Just like Aipim Frito but with sun-dried jerked meat, very popular.

Caldo de feijão

A hearty Brazilian soup made from black beans and spices, and often includes meat, served hot as a comforting, flavorful dish. Where to try: Devassa 

Frango a passarinho

Deep-fried chicken parts. All of them. Where to try: Sindicato do Chopp (Ipanema or Copa) 

Torresmo

A popular Brazilian snack, is a crispy pork belly with a rich, savory flavor. It’s deep-fried to golden perfection, offering a satisfying crunch and indulgent taste, often enjoyed with a cold beer or as a side dish. Where to try: Brasileirinho (Ipanema) 

Manjubinha

Deep-fried and breaded tiny fish, somewhat disgusting, as you eat the entire fish: head, tails, and guts. Where to try: Sindicato do Chopp (Ipanema) 

After savoring Brazil’s irresistible bar snacks and discovering the flavors that make its botecos so iconic, take the experience beyond the table. Step into the chef’s own home for a hands-on cooking class, where you’ll prepare a traditional Brazilian dish that captures the country’s lively, communal spirit. Book your Cook in Brazil food tours and bring the flavors of Brazil’s nightlife into your own kitchen.