The “gayborhoods” of Rio de Janeiro are blessed with a multitude of places grab a quick bite, sit down for a full meal, or recharge your battery with something caffeinated. The following is a shortlist of gay and gay-friendly spots in Copacabana, Ipanema, and Lapa. After you fuel up, continue the night at any of the many gay bars and clubs of Rio de Janiero.
Anexo Lounge Bar
Rua do Rezende 52
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Google map »
This quirky spot in the Lapa neighborhood has enough great food options to be cross-listed as both a restaurant and a bar. Anexo is located on Rua Rezende which is the neighborhood’s restaurant row. Other dining options are just a few steps away for those who want a major meal.
Cafeína
Rua Farme de Amoedo 43
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Google map »
Of the seven Cafeina locations in Rio, the best and the gayest is located in the heart of Ipanema. Stop by for coffee and sample some excellent Brazilian pastries.
Eclipse
Avenida de Nossa Senhora de Copacabana 1309
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Google map »
Late night munchies in Copacabana. Eclipse is around the corner from Le Boy and a couple of blocks away from TV Bar.
Estilo da Lapa
Avenida Mem de Sá 127
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Google map »
Tiny bar/restaurant with a simple menu but popular with local gay guys. Stop in for a beer and a snack before heading to any of the nearby restaurants.
Felice Caffè
Highly-recommended option in Ipanema with indoor and outdoor seating. Read the full review of Felice, get directions, and more info »
Galitos Grill
Rua Farme de Amoedo 62
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Google map »
A good solid meal with a fun mixed crowd. Try the restaurant’s namesake: the galeto a type of roasted chicken with an assortment of side items.
Gringo Cafe
Rua Barão da Torre, 240
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Google map »
Traditional American comfort food is popular with diners from around the world.
Néctar
Rua Visc. de Pirajá, 183
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Google map »
Try a suco mixto (mixture of juices) to make your taste buds do the samba. This popular Ipanema juice bar is the perfect place to experience native Brazilian fruits like acerola, acai, and maracuja.
Opium
Rua Farme de Amoedo, 34
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Google map »
Sleek and modern restaurant serves an excellent menu of Asian dishes. Popular with both tourists and locals.
Rainbow Pizzaria Quiosque
Avenida Atlântica 1702 (close to Rua Rodolfo Dantas)
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Google map »
Stop for a beer and something to eat at Copacabana Beach’s gay kiosk. Like most of the beach’s food stands, the Rainbow closes at 10PM. On Sunday nights, there’s a bit of a show with music and the occasional drag performance.
Rayz
Rua Prudente de Morais, 416
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Google map »
Based on the Portuguese word for roots (raízes) this popular restaurant celebrates the origins of Brazilian cuisine. A bit pricey, but excellent snacks and meals, Rayz rarely disappoints. Their sampler platters are an excellent way to explore many different items.
Rio Scenarium
Rua do Lavradio, 20
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Google map »
Not gay, but way too big and way too fabulous to miss! Visit the Rio Scenarium website to check out photos of this amazing place.
Tô Nem Ai
Rua Farme de Amoedo, 57
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Google map »
Very popular gay destination for dinner and drinks. Food is average. It’s all about the location. Chat up some fellow tourist before heading off to late night fun.
Via Sete
Rua Garcia D’ Avila 125
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Google map »
Salads, burgers, and delectable seafood are among the favorites at this Ipanema restaurant run by the owners of Felice Caffe
Zazá Bistrô
Rua Joana Angélica 40
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Google map »
Exotic dishes with flavors from Morocco to Mozambique win rave reviews. Upstairs and outdoor seating make this a good choice for a romantic date in Ipanema.