4 Best Restaurants in Fortaleza, The Northeast

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In the last decade, Fortaleza's gourmet scene has almost caught up with neighboring Recife. Stylish seafood restaurants set on the shore now compete with upmarket churrascarias (all-you-can-eat meat barbecues). At laid-back local spots, Brazilian dishes such as feijoada (pork and black bean stew) reign supreme alongside Fortaleza's specialty, baião-de-dois (seasoned rice and black beans served with soft cheese).

Coco Bambu Frutos do Mar

$$$$ | Meireles Fodor's Choice

Lovers of seafood should look no further than this elegant spot overlooking the beach, which serves prawns in all imaginable forms. Its popularity has reached such heights that there are now 12 Coco Bambus across Brazil. Start with the giant king prawns encrusted in coconut and served with mango chutney, and then follow that up with grilled lobster with Sicilian lemon risotto. Portions are often big enough for two. The spacious restaurant has a number of different areas for dining, from the ample open-air terrace to an air-conditioned salon

Colher de Pau

$$ | Varjota

Ana Maria Vilmar and her mother opened Colher de Pau more than a decade ago in a small rented house in the Varjota district. The regional cuisine here has become so popular that there is now a sister spot in São Paulo. The sun-dried meat is served not only with paçoca but also with banana and baião-de-dois (rice and beans). The shellfish dishes, many prepared with regional recipes, are also standouts. Generous portions serve two or three people, and live music is performed nightly in the alfresco courtyard.

L'Ô Restaurante

$$$$
This elegant restaurant serves sophisticated Mediterranean-Brazilian fusion dishes. The surrounding area may be a little run-down, but inside the decor is art deco–inspired and there is a beautiful alfresco bar in the garden. Highlights include slow-roasted lamb served with cashew nuts and an extensive wine list. While pricey, the experience is classier than most of its Fortaleza competitors.
Fusion $$$$ Lunch Dinner
Av. Pessoa 217, Fortaleza, 60060430, Brazil
085-3265–2288
www.lorestaurante.com.br
Restaurant Details
No lunch Mon.–Thurs. and Sat. No dinner Fri. and Sun.

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Santa Grelha

$$$$ | Meireles

In a restored colonial house, Santa Grelha is off the tourist path and specializes in exceptional grilled meat and fish, served with legendary home-made farofa (roasted manioc flour). Black-suited waiters and a climatized wine cellar of more than 600 options add to the air of elegance.