Camila Coutinho was Brazil’s first fashion blogger, starting Garotas Estupidas in 2006 – the same year Twitter launched. On the vanguard of style and culture, Camila’s blog now receives 8.7 million views per year, and she’s become an international authority on chic living.
Currently in Rio acting as Coca-Cola’s digital ambassador for the 2016 Games, Camila is also a general ambassador for the likes of MAC, Net-a-Porter and Diane Von Furstenberg. Suffice to say, she’s a well-connected woman. And, expectedly, a wonderful hostess, as we found out following her personalised Refinery29 guide to eating, drinking and unwinding in the hottest city in the world right now.
Rubaiyat
Rubaiyat is a very traditional steak restaurant with a great view overlooking the polo stadium as well the Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer) and the palm trees from the Botanical Garden. The Queen's Beef is one of my favourite dishes.
Photo: Courtesy of Rubaiyat.
Bagatelle
Adding a Brazilian touch to French cuisine, Bagatelle is the place to be. The restaurant is in Rio de Janeiro’s Jockey Club and the menu is signed by Gustavo Young, a world-famous Brazilian chef who has worked in established restaurants around Europe. You can also extend your night with friends and enjoy the live DJ with a beautiful view.
Photo: Courtesy of Bagatelle.
Fasano Hotel
My favourite spot in Rio is the rooftop bar at the Fasano Hotel in Ipanema. It’s right in front of the beach and the pool bar is incredible, with excellent service. You can just sit with drinks and snacks and enjoy the most amazing view in Rio. It's an Instagram must!
Photo: Via @fasano.
Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas
Just a few blocks from the ocean sits this beautiful, expansive lagoon called Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas. Those looking to exercise away from the crowds can run around the perimeter on the designated jogging track, and luxury travellers will love the high-end bars, restaurants, lounges, and clubs that line the water at the complex called Lagoon. Or you can just enjoy the views!
Photo: Via @CamilaCourtinho.
Mr. Lam
This is the spot to see and be seen in Rio. At Mr. Lam you will find a high-end Chinese cuisine menu, with unique dishes and a nice atmosphere. My favourite item on the menu is the Maracana Prawns with Champagne, yummy.
Photo: Via @amibolsas
The Museum of Tomorrow – Museu do Amanha
Add a touch of culture to your trip visiting The Museum of Tomorrow. This futuristic museum takes you through time and space, from the cosmos to “now”. The incredible architecture sits upwards like a futuristic spaceship, making the building itself an end destination as much as the exhibitions inside.
Zaza
A jazzy gastro pub a block away from Ipanema Beach, Zaza serves up great contemporary Brazilian food and drinks. It's perfect for stepping off the beach for a meal, snack or cocktail and has a creative, artistic vibe. Watch out, it gets super buzzy around sunset.
Osklen
Osklen is one of the most recognisable Brazilian brands from Rio de Janeiro. The designer, Oskar Metsavaht, is very well-known for his amazing creations. His flagship store is a must in Rio de Janeiro but you can also find his stores in Japan, Miami and New York.
Photo: Via @oskelnLike what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
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