The Best Restaurant 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).

Tio Pepe

$$$ | Boa Viagem Fodor's Choice

Specializing in innovative yet traditional dishes, this lively restaurant has loyal locals queuing out the door for juicy portions of carne de sol (sun-dried beef) and porco vulcanico (pork fillet served with a special house sauce, beans, and manioc). The menu revolves around the grill, with a wide variety of fish as well as meat dishes generous enough to be shared. Opt for a table among the tropical plants on the breezy terrace, where colorful tablecloths and eclectic design add to the character.