The 10 Best Kilo Restaurants in Rio de Janeiro

Its sophisticated environment, set with soft lighting and deep wooden finishings, mask the informal and casual air of Frontera. The buffet is at the back of the restaurant, which is decorated with classic airline imagery and offers a solid mix of international cuisines such as sushi, as well as Brazilian staples such as feijoada and barbecue. The desserts are also worth saving room for.

One of Rio’s most upscale per kilo restaurants is based in the wealthy neighborhood of Leblon. The light, floral decorations complement the varied Mediterranean food choices, such as fresh salads and oysters. Brazilian and international cuisine complete the buffet, and the homemade desserts are a delicious indulgence. The high-quality food is reflected in the not-so-budget-friendly price.

This modern, casual joint includes a varied salad bar and a mix of hot entrees, making it a good, cheap option for both vegetarians and meat-lovers. The wide choice of foods won’t leave you disappointed, and the typical Brazilian barbecue serves tender, salty meats, including picanha, one of the best steak cuts in Brazil.

An informal and cosy restaurant that offers simple, honest food options rather than more complicated dishes. The food choices are made according to long-standing traditions rather than creativity, leaving no doubt as to what ingredients are in each offering. The desserts are classicly homemade too.

Be aware, though, that the stairs going into the dining room may pose problems for those with disabilities.

Busy lunch spot Aipo e Aipim is popular among tourists and locals alike for its huge variety of foods. It serves some international cuisine such as sushi, yet its notable highlights are typical Brazilian favorites such as feijoada, several rice options, various cuts of meat and the Brazilian barbecue. The desserts are seductively tempting as well.

Kilograma is a solid all-rounder with a wide selection of food and reasonable prices. The food is satisfying, with good flavors and a homely appeal. The buffet options include a salad bar and classic Brazilian hot dishes such as feijoada, rice and a variety of fish and meat. There are also pizzas, sushi and barbecue choices.

Loacted in the leafy surburb of Jardim Botanico, this charming restaurant with its sunny yellow facade serves a healthy buffet of fresh salads, light mains and the classic Brazilian barbecue. It serves several fish and meat options, yet the salad bar is sufficiently varied to provide a great option for vegetarians.

This family-owned restaurant displays its extraordinary success in its choice of location. With a prime spot in Leblon’s Rio Design Shopping Mall, a mall known for its expensive shops and upscale clients, the restaurant serves a large buffet of traditional Portuguese lunch and dinner options. The cost per kilo is surprisingly reasonable, and although more expensive than some places, it’s still good value for money.

Caleiro fits the healthy and active culture of Rio, with its nutritious foods and use of natural ingredients. With over 50 different kinds of salads, both vegetarians and meat lovers will be more than satisfied, and there are also several quiches, vegetables and healthy desserts to choose from.