Manaus Amazonas, Brazil Travel Guide
The food in Manaus directly hyperlinks to its geographical and historical context. Manaus's cuisine developed from the rich biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest.
When Portuguese colonizers arrived, they introduced new cooking techniques and some ingredients, but local produce remained paramount. This blend created a culinary tradition that commemorates the rainforest's harvest. Unlike other Brazilian regions that lean heavily on beef or coastal seafood, Manaus centers its dishes on river fish and the unique fruits and vegetables of the Amazon rainforest.
A delicious and fatty river fish, typically grilled whole or as ribs (costela de tambaqui). It has an unique flavor and texture.
Served with farinha d'água, vinaigrette, and sometimes rice. Find it at specialty fish restaurants (peixarias) city-wide, specifically those with an outdoor grill.
A layered casserole-like dish made with shredded pirarucu fish, mashed plantains, farofa, and often cheese.
A hearty and flavorful dish, showing one of the Amazon rainforest rainforest's important fish.
A hot, soupy drink offered in a gourd (cuia). It consists of tucupi (the yellow, acidic manioc broth), goma de tapioca (tapioca gum), jambu (the tingling herb), and dried shrimp. The jambu gives it an unique numbing and tingling sensation in the mouth.
You find tacacá at booths on the street, especially in the late afternoon and evening, where vendors specialize in this popular snack.
Crepe-like pancakes from cassava starch. Naturally gluten-free, with sweet or savory fillings like cheese, shredded coconut, dried meat, or chocolate. Find them at markets and small stalls.
Pão de Queijo: Small, warm, cheesy bread rolls. A beloved Brazilian snack, available everywhere from bakeries to cafes. Salgadinhos: Various fried or baked savory pastries. Popular types include coxinha (shredded chicken in a dough, shaped like a drumstick), empada (small savory pie), and pastel (fried pastry with various fillings).
Several upscale restaurants focus on refined Amazonian cuisine or present international dishes with a local twist.
These are abundant throughout Manaus. They provide a wide variety of Brazilian and Amazonian dishes, plus some international options.
Find cheap and traditional local food in a variety of locations.
Beyond being an attraction, it is a thriving market bustling with fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, spices, and a wide array of Amazonian handicrafts and food stalls. It has an immersive experience.
Icon:
A large, chaotic, but authentic wholesale market by the harbor. Mainly for produce, it features a raw glimpse into local trade and some extremely simple food options.
Icon:
Guaraná: a soft drink from the Amazon rainforestian guaraná fruit. Juices From Fresh fruit (Sucos): Made from local fruits like Açaí, Cupuaçu, Graviola.
Brazil's national spirit. Enjoy it neat or in a caipirinha. Brahma, Skol, and Antarctica are popular local brands.
Bolo de Macaxeira: a moist cake from cassava. Doces de Frutas Regionais: Sweets and nature reserves from locally grown fruits.
Manaus is a growing number of restaurants presenting international cuisine, found in shopping malls and affluent neighborhoods.
Awareness of specific allergens like gluten grows, but it is not extensive in all establishments.
Cassava-based dishes (tapioca, farinha) are naturally gluten-free and are safe choices. Be clear about your needs.
Eu sou alérgico a... (I am allergic to...), Eu não posso comer... (I cannot eat...), Sem glúten (Without gluten), Sem lactose (Without lactose).
Carry phrase cards explaining your dietary restrictions in Portuguese. Research restaurants beforehand utilizing online reviews. Select lodging with kitchen facilities for self-catering if your needs are severe.
Sweets and preserves from the abundance of local fruits like cupuaçu or bacuri.
Manaus is more and more eateries offering international cuisine, including Japanese, Italian, and United states quick-service food chains.
A soft drink from the Amazonian guaraná fruit. It is sweet and has an unique flavor, known for its scenic caffeine content.
A must-try. Made from locally grown fruits like Açaí, Cupuaçu, Graviola, Caju (cashew fruit), and Maracujá (a type of tropical fruit).
A thick, frozen pulp of the açaí berry, comes in a bowl, often topped with granola, sliced banana, and a drizzle of honey.
A moist and delicious cake from cassava.
Doces de Frutas Regionais: Sweets and preserves from the abundance of fruits from the area like cupuaçu or bacuri.
Abundant and fresh in the Amazon.
Buy them shelled or in their natural pods.
Manaus's food scene is a thrilling journey per se. Be open to new flavors, and embrace the unique tastes of the Amazon.
Lunch (almoço) often is the primary meal of the day, typically served between NOON and 2 PM. Dinner (jantar) usually arrives later, starting around 7 PM.
