3 Best Restaurants in The Northeast, Brazil

Slip off your flip-flops and tuck into pizza, pasta, and regional specialities in the charming garden of this friendly restaurant. Even though some dishes can be hit-or-miss, the wood-fire oven and romantic atmosphere keep locals and tourists alike coming back for more. Most of the tables are outside, so the restaurant doesn't open when it rains.

During the high season (July and December–mid-March), it's necessary to make a reservation at this popular joint, or you'll be among the many waiting outside, salivating from smells of fresh tomato sauce and garlic. The restaurant's popularity is a result of reasonable prices, a romantic atmosphere, proximity to the Ponta Negra Beach, and skillful preparation of pasta, meat, and seafood dishes. Particularly recommended is the tagliolini allo scoglio (pasta with lobster, shrimp, and mussels).

The thin-crust pizza at this lively spot is a serious contender for the best in Brazil. Originally from Italy, owners Paulo and Michela designed and built their own wood-fire oven to ensure that their secret recipe for pizza dough turned out just like at home. Regulars stop by for caiprinhas, making it a great spot to chat with the locals.