The Best Restaurant 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