Doni Clemons
Located just a couple streets away from Copacabana beach and right behind Copacabana Palace, this Italian bistro is the real thing. The chef, Cristina Pistolesi is from Pisa (land of the leaning tower), and she brought her authentic recipes with her. The perspective, from the decor to the food is inspired by Old Italy made modern. Classic square wooden tables and a space decorated with antique bar carts are in alignment with the traditional, ‘everything made by hand and in-house’ creed of the bistro. Friendly and attentive waiters start the day serving breakfast with fresh breads and marmalades and the service keeps going throughout lunch and dinner. For lunch, try the crepes if you’re looking for something light, or bresaola, house-cured beef carpaccio combined with sharp burrata and arugula leaves (R $ 35.00) . For dinner, there are many pastas, risottos, and meat dishes to select, including a classic and incredibly fresh, spaghetti carbonara. Those that appreciate a little internet with their morning coffee are in luck, wifi is free here.
