Botafogo is well-known as the hottest neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro right now thanks to its innovative gastronomical scene and hipster bars. But did you know it’s also a great spot for pizzas too? From doughy slices to more sophisticated crispy bases, there is pizza to satisfy every whim. Here are some of Botafogo’s best pizzerias.
South Ferro
Restaurant, Asian
South Ferro, Rio de Janeiro
South Ferro brings an innovative menu to Botafogo, one that combines traditional Asian dishes such as ramen and slices of pizza. The pizza on the menu comes from the success of the venue’s sister restaurant, Ferro e Farinha in Catete, which is famous for its varied and delicious oven-baked pizzas. The small venue is cozy and laid-back yet has limited seating so be sure to get there early.
Loyal customers of Ecco Pizza – and there are many – will solemnly swear that the best pizza in Botafogo comes from this casual pizza joint. With perfectly-cooked bases and generous servings of all sorts of toppings, it’s not hard to see the appeal of Ecco Pizza. Pizza options include classics such as margherita to more unusual combinations such as seafood and banana with chocolate.
Located on the busy Rua Nelson Mandela street that is filled with bustling bars and after-work Happy Hours, Formato Vino & Forneria is one of the quieter spots there amid all the commotion and is ideal for a glass of wine and a delicious pizza. The pizzas all have a thin, crispy base and dozens of toppings to choose from, including an innovative mozzarella and brie with spicy apricot jam.
Birreria Escondido is a lively joint in Botafogo and perfect for when you’re looking for a good beer with a decent pizza in a place with a young, vibrant atmosphere. The beers there are mostly craft beers, providing a great opportunity to sample delicious locally-brewed beers as well as well-known imported beverages. The pizzas are homemade with a thin base and a choice of several toppings generously sprinkled on top.
With a name like Pizza Master, what else can you expect from the menu other than fantastic pizzas? Luckily the venue lives up to its name if you’re looking for a quick, on-the-go pizza to quickly hit the spot. The casual venue offers a wide variety of different pizza options and is great for those on a budget with regular promotional offers and all-round good prices.
Domenica Pizzaria Artesanal, R. Capistrano de Abreu
For Italian pizza with thin bases and classic toppings, Domenica Pizzaria Artesanal is the place to go. Using authentic ingredients such as real mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, and hard parmesan, the traditional taste can be a welcome relief from the more innovative and modern toppings from other restaurants around the city. There is also an extensive wine and drinks menu.
Restaurant, Pizzeria, Italian, Fast Food, Vegetarian, $$$
For the most traditional Italian cuisine in Botafogo, you can’t go wrong with Eccellenza. Its rustic ambiance with low-lighting and wooden tables sets a charming scene and makes for a wonderful date night out. Start with the bread stuffed with pepperoni before moving on to the pizzas that are cooked in a wood stove for a rich, smoky flavor.
