4 Best Restaurants in Recife, The Northeast

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An integral part of the city's culture, Recife's culinary scene has a well-earned reputation as one of the best in Brazil. Among the specialties not to miss are carne do sol (salted beef, dried in the sun for 1–2 days), tapioca pancakes (white flour made from cassava root) with fried cheese and caramelized banana, and caldeirada (seafood stew with octopus and parsley).

Chica Pitanga

$ | Boa Viagem
The wide variety of freshly prepared, tasty dishes at this reliable, per-kilo buffet restaurant makes it a popular choice with business workers and families alike. There is an extensive selection of meats and fish, a sophisticated salad bar, and a dessert counter. While you may need to wait for a table, the lines tend to move quickly.

Leite

$$$$
For a memorable lunch, look no further than Leite. Since 1882, this Recife institution has served expertly prepared Portuguese classics in a refined setting, where white-coated waiters serve delectable dishes such as bacalão com nata (cod in buttermilk) amid live piano music. Even though its downtown location requires something of a detour, it's well worth the effort.

Parraxaxá

$ | Boa Viagem

Waiters at this popular restaurant wear the bent orange hats of Lampião, a Jesse James–like folk hero who made his way through the interior of northeastern Brazil during the early 20th century. The buffet has a wide selection of the regional specialties that Lampião might have encountered back then. The food is priced per kilogram, so the cost will depend on how hungry you are. Try the amazing escondinho (a wonderful meat and cheese dish), charque (dried beef), and carne sol (brisket).

Brazilian Family $ Lunch Dinner
Av. Fernando Simoes Barbosa 1200, Recife, 51021-060, Brazil
081-3463–7874
www.parraxaxa.com.br
Restaurant Details
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Siwichi Cebicheria Peruana

$$$
The sophisticated decor, fresh ceviche, and innovative cocktails at this family-run Peruvian spot make for a welcome alternative to Recife's northeastern standards. Highlights include the assorted ceviche, Nikkei tuna with caramalized onion, arroz chaufa (a Peruvian fried rice dish), and decadent churros (doughnuts).