3 Best Bars in Vila Madalena and Pinheiros, São Paulo

The riffs heard at Madeleine place it in an exclusive stratum of São Paulo music clubs. But it's the mix of music, food, drinks, and atmosphere that lends the bar its comprehensive appeal. Jazz ensembles play in the exposed-brick lounge, which has clear sightlines from the mezzanine. Better for chatting are the candlelit tables in the well-stocked wine cellar, and the seats on the veranda, with its panoramic views of Vila Madalena. Wherever you sit, the gourmet pizzas go great with the craft beers poured here.

Cariocas are people from Rio de Janeiro, and Carioca Club has the decor of old-style Rio clubs. Its large dance floor attracts an eclectic mix of up to 1,200 college students, couples, and professional dancers who move to samba, gafieira, and pagode from Thursday through Saturday starting at varying times. Cover fees average R$70.

In addition to live music every day, the bar offers great caipirinhas in various flavors, such as cashew, to accompany a delicious dadinho de tapioca—tapioca dices with coalho cheese, baked or fried, served with pepper jam, in a lively, Brazilian-style environment.