Doni Clemons
This always bustling after-beach spot in Leblon was started by Chico and Alaíde who once worked in a restaurant together as waiter (Chico) and chef (Alaíde). In addition to the fact that this laid-back boteco is popular, it is also small, so don't be surprised if you have a little wait. It also shouldn't surprise you if you make a bar full of fast friends in the process. Maybe it's the owner’s friendship that permeates the space that accounts for the convivial vibe. In just four years, Chico and Alaíde already feels like a Rio institution. The food tastes just as established, with a menu comprised of typical bar fare crafted in an anything but typical way. The compulsory house specials like Feijoadinha da Mamãe, Pastel de Siri, and choquinho": huge prawns with catupiry cheese e stringy fried potatoes are delightful. As are the perfectly calibrated sanduíches (sandwiches) like Pernil com Abacaxi (Pork with Pineapple) and Filet Mignon tudo junto (Filet Mignon Beef with garlic, cheese, tomato, and cilantro). Pair one with their consistently ice-cold beer and appreciate the fact that some things just work well together.
