“What sick freak wouldn’t come to Rio, given the opportunity? Let’s call it what it is: perfection.”
Over the past few years Anthony Bourdain has became a huge influence on my outlook in life and travels. I admire the way he embraced every culture with a open mind and was willing to try anything and talk to anyone. He understood the importance of meeting locals and how authentic encounters made the experience of each trip. Going into 2022 I made a promise to myself to really push for more authentic trips this year and less touristy attractions. Like the great Anthony Bourdain said "Be a traveler, not a tourist" .
I have to admit I forgot Anthony had a episode on Rio until I was actually there. Turns out he really loved Rio, I mean I don't blame him ... who wouldn't. I was fortunate to visit two of his favorite spots and I wanted to share my experiences.
The first spot I went to was Bar Urca. Located right next to Sugarloaf Mountain which was easily one of my favorite things to do in Rio, spend the whole day up there if you can! The best time to visit Bar Urca is right before sunset. I recommend getting there a bit early because this place does get super packed. You order your food then go find a spot on the wall next to the water. The view over looking the boats floating on the water is so relaxing. I ordered a big Bohemia to share with my friend and a few fried things which Anthony ate also.
I first ordered a beef empanada because you can't go wrong with those, fried cod balls, and fried sardines. The empanadas were amazing, I could've ordered 10. I honestly wasn't a huge fan of the cod balls because the texture was a little too mushy for me but my friend liked them. Lastly I was shocked with how good the fried sardines were. I've always found them super gross, I just wanted a bite to try but ended up eating almost all of them. They really know how to fry things here! My friend and I then went to watch the sunset and walk around with our beers. I really enjoyed this spot so defiantly put this on your list if you find yourself around Rio!
Next spot was Galeto Sat's. Located in sweet sweet Copacabana, the place I called home for a month. I can't rave enough about Copacabana, its really the perfect spot to stay in Rio. Galeto Sats is located right on the Main Street but its pretty small. I was surprised when I walked to it, I had to double check if I was at the right place. Its a little local joint but the prices aren't like the other local restaurants I ate at. However, completely worth it. I ordered the full chicken which came with rice, fries, and eggs. Here in Brazil, they eat tons of starch. It's hard to find veggies so be prepared to be full. Im not sure what it is here in Brazil but the fries are always so good! The chicken was plentiful and some of the best chicken Ive ever had. The best way to describe it is, think of the best rotisserie chicken you've had. It's that. It was juicy and full of flavor. They have an open fire you can watch the chickens get cooked on which was pretty neat. I was upset this was my last meal in Rio because I would've ate here every week. Since I ate alone I had a lot of leftovers and ended up giving them to a homeless man on the street which was nice to do.
I wasn't able to visit Barraca do Uruguai while I was in Rio however, my friends did and said they had the best sandwiches in Rio. I linked the Trip advisor so you can see this place!
Anthony Bourdain also spoke about visiting the Favelas which was also one of my favorite things I did, check out my blog here.
Overall, Im super happy with the places I went and I find myself missing the energy of Brazil every day. Check out this blog to see a little heartfelt journal entry I wrote while I was there. If you get the chance to visit Brazil , DO IT!
Visiting these spots Anthony once did gave me this sort of connection, even though I was never able to meet him I wish I did. I look forward to traveling to the same spots as him and trying new foods. Until next time .. - T
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