The Top 6 Fruit and Vegetable Markets in Rio de Janeiro

Gal Glicério, vendor at Rua Professor Ortiz Monteiro
Gal Glicério, vendor at Rua Professor Ortiz Monteiro | © Rodrigo S. Maior / Wikimedia Commons
Sarah Brown

The colors, smells, and hustle and bustle of the fruit and vegetable markets in Rio offer an exciting glimpse into Brazil’s exotic food resources. The sounds of street vendors calling out prices and names of unknown fruits become a fast-paced mantra, and there’s a whiff of nostalgia when browsing the traditional trading stalls. Here are some of the top fruit and vegetable markets in Rio de Janeiro.

1. Praça General Osorio

Market, Historical Landmark

This Ipanema market starts first thing in the morning every Tuesday at the subway entrance of Praça General Osorio and winds around the square. The large market seems to sell every kind of fruit and vegetable imaginable, plus several that are native to Brazil and can cause English-speakers bewilderment. Vendors will offer slices of fresh mango, juicy watermelons, and whatever else is in season for you to try under no obligation. Take a large bag with you—it’s easy to be led into temptation and buy things by the sackful.
Open Tuesdays

2. Praça Nossa Senhora da Paz

Park, Market

Based in Ipanema, this market sprawls out to repurpose the square every Friday morning. In addition to a range of fresh fruits and vegetables—including guava, soursop, and jack fruit—stalls sell a wide variety of locally produced cheeses (look out for Canastra, a typical Serra cheese), herbs, spices, and fresh meat. The meat stalls are not for those with a sensitive stomach; every part of the animal is sold, from traditional prime cuts to lungs and intestines to other hard-to-identify organs.
Open Fridays

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