Must-try Dishes
Feijoada - Black Bean Stew - A hearty stew made with black beans, various cuts of pork, and beef, simmered for hours. Typically served on Wednesdays or Saturdays, it’s a favorite among locals gathering with family or friends.
Empanada - Stuffed Pastry - Crispy pastry filled with seasoned ground meat or cheese, quickly fried to golden perfection. It’s a beloved street food, often enjoyed on the go during lunch breaks.
Barreado - Stewed Meat - Slow-cooked beef with spices and anise, thickened into a rich stew, often served with rice and banana. Commonly eaten during festive occasions, it’s a dish you’ll find at family gatherings around holidays.
Pinhão - Roasted Pine Nuts - These large, nutty seeds are often boiled or roasted, then enjoyed as a popular snack. Street vendors frequently sell them during the colder months, making for a warm, cozy treat while wandering the city.
Polenta with Chorizo - Polenta com Linguiça - Creamy cornmeal topped with smoky chorizo and served warm, creating a delightful savory experience. This dish is a favorite in bars, where locals enjoy it while sipping on drinks during the evenings.
Baião de Dois - Rice and Beans - A mix of rice, beans, and often some meat, seasoned with local herbs and spices, creating a savory blend. It shines at community lunches, often accompanied by laughter and storytelling.
Carne de Sol - Sun-Dried Meat - Flavored, salted beef that's dried in the sun, usually grilled and served with sides like salad or rice. Locals savor it during the warm months, taking advantage of the vibrant food markets.
Vaca Atolada - Beef Stew with Cassava - A comforting stew made with tender beef and cassava, rich in flavor and thickness. This dish is especially popular during the winter, a warm staple often prepared for family gatherings.
Desserts & Drinks
Café com Leite - Café com Leite (coffee with milk) - A delightful mix of strong Brazilian coffee and steamed milk, resulting in a creamy beverage. Curitibanos often enjoy this in the morning as a comforting start to their day, typically served in a small cup.
Capivara - Capim Santo (lemongrass drink) - This refreshing non-alcoholic beverage combines lemongrass and sugar, sometimes mixed with lime for zing. It’s especially popular during summer months at family gatherings, often served chilled and garnished with mint leaves.
Caipirinha - Caipirinha (cachaça cocktail) - The national cocktail made from cachaça (sugarcane spirit), muddled limes, sugar, and ice creates a clean, zesty drink. Locals typically sip this during social gatherings or festive occasions, and the best home versions come with a good amount of crushed ice.
Pastel de Nata - Pastel de Nata (custard tart) - These flaky pastry shells filled with rich, creamy custard are best served warm, often with a sprinkle of cinnamon. A popular treat during the afternoon or at celebrations, locals tend to stop by bakeries for a couple to enjoy with coffee.
Açaí Bowl - Açaí na Tigela (açaí bowl) - A thick, frozen smoothie made from açaí berries, often topped with granola, bananas, and honey. It’s a summer favorite, consumed especially after workouts at local juice bars. By the way, it’s common to order extra toppings, which locals relish!