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We've compiled the best of the best in Belém - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
Fresh produce is the hero at this modern neighborhood bistro. Portuguese chef João Rodrigues swapped his Michelin-star kitchen for this modest diner where top-quality seafood and seasonal ingredients shine. There are no fancy foams, just fuss-free dining and an ever-changing menu with Portuguese roots and daily specials. Bookings recommended.
Expect culinary precision at this Michelin-starred restaurant headed by André Cruz, who honed his craft in Portugal and South America. There’s no à la carte menu; instead, diners choose from traditional or vegetarian Semente tasting menus offered in two formats—Roots (which lets the ingredients take center stage), and the more elaborate Leaf.
Portugal is a nation obsessed with seafood, but more often than not, fish is simply grilled over charcoal with salt. Guelra is changing the game with a fish-focused eatery where you can sit down for creative seafood snacks and wine at the bar, or venture upstairs for a chic meal with Portuguese-influenced dishes. Be sure to try the amphora wines.
A dressy crowd gathers at this ultramodern dimly lit restaurant specializing in Japanese-Peruvian fusion food. At Nikkei you can sample many varieties of ceviche and sashimi, as well as tiraditos (a sashimi-shaped raw fish dish that blends Peruvian and Japanese culinary traditions).
Crustaceans of every shape and size are found at this classic marisqueira, the name given to restaurants that specialize in seafood of all kinds. A recent renovation turned this family-run spot into a glitzy, Art Deco–inspired space where high-quality Portuguese seafood remains the star and loyal locals still attend in droves.
Although the name translates as "Bread Bread Cheese Cheese," this bustling place serves much more than these two staples. Expect lines out the door as hungry sightseers and locals line up to take their pick from a huge variety of sandwiches, salads, falafel, and wraps.
The namesake tarts, queijadas, are super sweet little cheese cakes, but this casual spot can also satisfy a more substantial hunger. For lunch, don't miss the giant grilled tiger prawns, or the grilled sardines when they're in season.
