Just like the name suggests, WineHouse is all about the wine. The best options to try on the menu are the Brazilian offerings which are making a small yet steady entrance into the world of global wines. The Brazilian sparkling whites or rosés are among the best to order yet don’t miss your chance of trying orange wine here too. Ask the owner – Dominic – for recommendations of the best food and wine pairings.
WineHouse, R. Paulo Barreto, 25 – Loja E – Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro, +55 (21) 3264 4101
Sparkling white wine at the WineHouse | WineHouse
Hocus Pocus is a locally-made beer and since 2016, it’s been voted as the best artisanal beer in Rio de Janeiro, according to Veja’s Comer & Beber, Brazil’s bible when it comes to wining and dining. The brewery finally opened their own bar in Botafogo which has a rustic setting of wooden beams and exposed brickwork and serves all the different types of Hocus Pocus. If beer is your thing, make sure you swing by to enjoy the best of Rio’s beer.
Hocus Pocus DNA, R. Dezenove de Fevereiro, 186 – Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro, +55 (21) 4107 3107
Botafogo’s original hipster hangout, Comuna still stands out in Botafogo for its laid-back space and its homemade burgers. The venue often collaborates with a local artist by dedicating a wall for the artist to decorate how they please and there are also regular pop-up shops hosted here. Thursdays and the weekends are the busiest days where visitors end up spilling into the street outside when the patio inside gets too crowded.
Comuna, R. Sorocaba, 585 – Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro, +55 (21) 3579 6175
This nightclub has several dance floors dedicated to rock and indie music, making it popular among the local young Brazilians and the foreign exchange students. The party kicks off around midnight and the doors rarely close before 6 a.m. Wednesdays are known as its karaoke nights where a live band plays various rock and indie hits to accompany you as you sing along to the crowded dancefloor before you.
Casa da Matriz, R. Henrique de Novais, 107 – Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro, +55 (21) 2226 9691
If you love rock music and all things metal, then Bar Bukowski is your spot. One of the only true rock bars in Rio de Janeiro, Bar Bukowski’s popularity has stood the test of time as it brings the best of American, British, and Brazilian rock to its eager audience every weekend. Set inside a former mansion, the space has several dance floors with different rock music and an outdoor patio which is great for chatting.
Bar Bukowski, R. Álvaro Ramos, 270 – Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro, +55 (21) 2244 7303
For a casual dinner date, head to South Ferro. The tiny venue creates an intimate atmosphere and the simple, minimalistic design keeps it feeling laid-back. The two highlights on the menu are the slices of homemade pizza and the ramen which is one of the best in Rio de Janeiro. They also serve wine and great cocktails.
South Ferro, R. Arnaldo Quintela, 23 – Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro, +55 (21) 3986 4323
The intimate atmosphere inside South Ferro | South Ferro
Oui Oui is a restaurant that marries French cooking techniques with typical Brazilian flavors to create a highly innovative menu. Rather than big, hearty portions, the food is prepared in little portions so diners can make their own, personalized tasting menu. For a romantic date night in a sophisticated setting, Oui Oui makes a great choice.
Oui Oui, Rua Conde de Irajá, 85 – Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro, +55 (21) 2527 3539