
Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Ribeirão Prêto, São Paulo, Brazil
1. Feijoada Ribeirópolis
A hearty stew made with black beans, pork, beef, and various sausages, served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices. Try it at Restaurante Feijão da Dona Zilda.
- Rich Flavors: The unique blend of meats and spices creates a rich, satisfying flavor profile.
- Traditional Preparation: Follows traditional recipes passed down through generations.
- Social Meal: Feijoada is often enjoyed during family gatherings and special occasions.
2. Pão de Queijo da Lagoa
Delicious cheese bread made from tapioca flour, milk, and cheese. Try it at Casa do Pão de Queijo.
- Unique Ingredients: The use of tapioca flour instead of wheat flour sets it apart.
- Authentic Recipe: Prepared according to the traditional Minas Gerais recipe.
- Perfect Snack: Ideal for any time of day, especially with coffee or as an accompaniment to meals.
3. Tiradito de Peixe na Lagoa
Fresh fish sliced thin and served with citrus juices, chili, and coriander. Try it at Restaurante da Lagoa.
- Culinary Fusion: A fusion of Japanese sashimi and local Brazilian ingredients.
- Seasonal Ingredients: The fish used is always fresh and sourced locally.
- Refreshing Dish: The citrus juices make it a refreshing dish for hot days.
4. Moqueca de Camarão
A seafood stew made with shrimp, coconut milk, tomatoes, and onions. Try it at Restaurante do Maracajá.
- Creamy Texture: The creamy texture comes from the coconut milk.
- Bahian Influence: Influenced by Bahian cuisine, which is known for its flavorful seafood dishes.
- Versatile Dish: Can be served with rice or farofa (toasted manioc flour).
5. Tapioca com Queijo Minas
Thin tapioca crepes filled with Minas cheese and drizzled with guava syrup. Try it at Tapiocaria da Lagoa.
- Tasty Dessert: A sweet, indulgent treat for dessert lovers.
- Quick Snack: Easy to grab on the go and perfect for snacking between meals.
- Unique Ingredients: The combination of Minas cheese and guava syrup is not commonly found elsewhere.
6. Pastel de Feijão Verde
Fried pastries filled with green beans, onions, and ground beef. Try it at Pastelaria Sobrado.
- Crispy Texture: The crispy exterior contrasts with the soft, flavorful filling.
- Savory Snack: An ideal snack for those seeking a savory treat.
- Local Tradition: A popular street food in Ribeirão Preto, particularly during festivals and events.
7. Pão de Queijo com Palmito
Cheese bread filled with heart of palm. Try it at Casa do Pão de Queijo.
- Unique Filling: The heart of palm filling adds a unique, tropical twist.
- Versatile Snack: Perfect as a snack or accompaniment to a meal.
- Healthy Option: The heart of palm is a nutritious and delicious ingredient.
8. Coxinha de Frango
Deep-fried chicken croquettes made with shredded chicken, cream cheese, and manioc flour. Try it at Coxinha Central.
- Flaky Crust: The flaky crust contrasts with the creamy filling.
- Portable Snack: Easy to carry and eat on-the-go.
- Traditional Street Food: A beloved Brazilian street food with origins in the state of São Paulo.
9. Tapioca com Açai
Thin tapioca crepes filled with açaí pulp and topped with granola. Try it at Tapiocaria da Lagoa.
- Healthy Breakfast: A nutritious, filling breakfast option.
- Cooling Dish: A refreshing choice on hot days, thanks to the açaí's cooling properties.
- Unique Ingredients: The combination of açaí and granola is not commonly found elsewhere.
10. Casquinha de Siri na Salada
Crab appetizer served on a bed of salad. Try it at Restaurante do Maracajá.
- Tasty Starter: A tasty and refreshing starter for seafood lovers.
- Local Specialty: A popular dish in the Ribeirão Preto region, especially during the crab season.
- Healthy Option: The salad helps balance out the richness of the crab.
11. Sopa de Feijão Tropeiro
Black bean soup with pork, onions, and garlic. Try it at Restaurante da Lagoa.
- Hearty Soup: A warm and filling dish for cold days.
- Traditional Preparation: Prepared according to the traditional recipe of tropeiros (Brazilian cattle drivers).
- Flavorful Broth: The pork and spices give the soup a rich, savory flavor.
12. Quindim
Coconut custard dessert made with egg yolks and sugar. Try it at Doceira da Lagoa.
- Smooth Texture: The smooth, creamy texture is a delightful treat.
- Tasty Dessert: A sweet, indulgent dessert perfect for ending a meal.
- Unique Ingredients: The use of coconut and egg yolks sets it apart from other desserts.
13. Moqueca de Peixe na Lagoa
Seafood stew made with fish, tomatoes, onions, and coconut milk. Try it at Restaurante da Lagoa.
- Creamy Texture: The creamy texture comes from the coconut milk.
- Versatile Dish: Can be served with rice or farofa (toasted manioc flour).
- Seasonal Ingredients: The fish used is always fresh and sourced locally.
14. Pastel de Bacalhau
Deep-fried pastries filled with salt cod, onions, and olives. Try it at Pastelaria Sobrado.
- Crispy Texture: The crispy exterior contrasts with the soft, flavorful filling.
- Savory Snack: An ideal snack for those seeking a savory treat.
- Traditional Street Food: A beloved Brazilian street food with origins in the state of São Paulo.
15. Tapioca com Frutas
Thin tapioca crepes filled with various fruits like strawberries, kiwi, and guava. Try it at Tapiocaria da Lagoa.
- Tasty Dessert: A sweet, refreshing dessert perfect for any time of day.
- Versatile Snack: Perfect as a snack or accompaniment to a meal.
- Fresh Ingredients: The fresh fruits used ensure a delicious, flavorful treat.