Santos Sao Paulo, Brazil Travel Guide
Santos cuisine finds strong definition by its coastal location, emphasizing fresh seafood. Its history as a major port brought waves of immigrants, notably Portuguese, Italian, Spanish, and Japanese, whose culinary traditions merged with local ingredients.
This fusion creates Santos' distinct flavor profile, sharing characteristics with broader São Paulo state cuisine although with a pronounced maritime twist. The coffee trade also left its mark, with coffee holding a central part in daily life and culinary tradition.
Meal times in Brazil are generally later than in North America or Europe. Lunch (almoço) typically occurs between 12:00 PM and 2:30 PM, and dinner (jantar) from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM or later.
Sharing dishes, especially appetizers, is common. A 10% service charge is often added to the bill; leaving an additional tip beyond this amount is optional.
Casual dress finds acceptance in most eateries, reflecting the relaxed coastal atmosphere of Santos.
Fish baked in a clay tile, often prepared with vegetables and a flavorful sauce. Find this dish in seafood restaurants.
A local favorite showing fresh catch.
A delicious fish stew. The Capixaba version is lighter, while the Bahiana version utilizes palm oil and coconut milk. Discover both in Brazilian restaurants.
Regional variations of a comforting classic.
Brazil's national dish – a rich black bean a stew containing various cuts of pork and beef. Many restaurants traditionally serve it on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
A hearty and deeply flavorful national experience.
Non-alcoholic: Açaí (juice or blended), Guaraná (Brazilian soda), Caldo de Cana (fresh sugarcane juice), Sucos Naturais (freshly squeezed juices). Alcoholic: Caipirinha (Brazil's national cocktail), Cerveja (lagers like Skol, Brahma).
Brigadeiro (chocolate fudge ball), Quindim (coconut and egg yolk custard), Beijinho (coconut fudge ball), Romeu e Julieta (guava paste with fromage).
Santos has a selection of upscale restaurants, notably in the Gonzaga and Ponta da Praia neighborhoods, offering refined Brazilian or international cuisine.
Numerous options exist throughout the city, including traditional Brazilian, Italian, Japanese, and pizzerias. Many offer "Prato Feito" or "Comida por Quilo" for lunch.
Food courts in shopping malls, bakeries (padarias), lanchonetes (snack bars), and street vendors supply inexpensive meal choices.
A good location for fresh produce, spices, and some prepared foods. It offers a glimpse into local business.
Explore local ingredients and market life.
Features a wide variety of fresh seafood. Some stalls even provide cooking services for your purchases, an unique dining experience.
Pick your catch and have it cooked on the spot.
Pizza, pasta, and more.
Sushi, sashimi, and other specialties.
Traditional dishes, including codfish.
Due to historical immigration patterns.
Halal and kosher options are very limited and not widely available in Santos. Special arrangements or self-catering might be suitable for travelers with these dietary requirements.
Plan ahead for specific religious dietary needs.
Online forums, Facebook groups for expats or travelers in Brazil, and translation apps can support communicating your dietary needs effectively.
Using a [translation card](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=translation+card) can be especially helpful.
Brazilian cuisine frequently utilizes manioc (cassava) flour, which serves as a naturally gluten-free alternative to wheat in many dishes.
Be aware that some Brazilian sweets and dishes might contain nuts, especially cashews or peanuts. Always inquire about ingredients if you have severe allergies.
Some local tour operators or private chefs may offer cooking classes focused on Brazilian or coastal cuisine, giving hands-on experience.
Food tours of the historic center or market visits provide insight into area ingredients and traditions, connecting you with the urban area's culinary heartbeat.
These are less common directly in Santos on account of its urban nature but are possible in the wider São Paulo state interior, particularly for coffee or fruit farms.
Foods like Pamonha (sweet corn cake) and Canjica (hominy pudding) gain prominence during Festa Junina in June.
Experience traditional Brazilian harvest celebrations.
Santos' history as a major coffee port means coffee is a deeply ingrained part of its food history. Visit local cafes for specialty brews.
Don't miss a visit to the Coffee Museum for tastings.
Direct access to newly caught seafood from the Atlantic Ocean defines much of Santos' culinary appeal.
The city's historical connection to coffee shapes both its daily rituals and its sweet and savory treats.
For a true taste of local life, seek out "Comida por Quilo" restaurants during lunch hours. These buffet-style eateries offer a wide variety of freshly prepared dishes, letting you sample many aspects of Brazilian home cooking.
