Curitiba The South, Brazil Travel Guide
Curitiba's culinary scene blends traditional Brazilian flavors with European techniques and ingredients. The city values "comida caseira" (home-style cooking) and fresh ingredients.
Ingredients often include pine nuts (pinhão – seasonal), mate (erva-mate), various meats (beef, pork), fresh vegetables, and dairy. Flavors are typically hearty and comforting, with a balance of savory and sweet elements, showing European influence in sausages, pasta, and baked goods.
Curitiba's cuisine aligns with Southern Brazilian culinary tradition, including churrasco and mate tea. Paraná coast influence (e.g., seafood like barreado) also has.
A lighter meal typically composed of coffee, bread, cheese, ham, and fresh fruit.
Sometimes a coffee with a pastry or savory snack.
A slow-cooked beef stew from the Paraná coast, prepared in a sealed clay pot until the meat shreds easily. Served with rice, pirão (flour paste), and sliced bananas.
Find in restaurants specializing in Paraná cuisine.
A local raw beef dish (similar to steak tartare) seasoned with onions, chives, and olive oil. Served on broa (rye bread). A Curitiba original.
Find in traditional bars and "botecos."
The edible seed of the Paraná Pine (Araucaria angustifolia), usually boiled or roasted. A seasonal delicacy (May to July).
Find at markets and incorporated into local dishes.
A thin roll cake with guava paste.
A dense, fudgy chocolate truffle.
Found mainly in upscale Batel and parts of Centro Cívico. These establishments serve contemporary Brazilian, international, and fusion cuisine with sophisticated ambiance.
Abundant throughout the city, especially in Batel, Mercês, and near shopping malls. A wide variety of Italian, German, churrascarias, and diverse Brazilian regional food.
"Comida por Quilo" buffets are widespread for affordable lunches. Lanchonetes offer quick snacks and simple meals. Street food is found near parks, bus terminals, and markets.
An excellent public market for fresh produce, cheeses, local delicacies, and gourmet items. Features a popular food court.
The famous Sunday craft market in the Historic Sector also has a diverse array of street food stalls.
Significant immigrant history.
Strong cultural presence.
Sushi and sashimi available.
Various other international options.
Communicate clearly, using a Translation app or phrasebook.
Choosing places known for natural, fresh ingredients may also assist.
Slow-cooked beef ribs prepared over an open fire. From Southern Brazilian "Gaucho" culture.
Polish/Ukrainian dumplings, a dish reflecting Eastern European influence.
Some local tour operators or culinary schools may offer short-term cooking classes focused on Paraná or Brazilian cuisine.
For actual farm visits or to see food production, venture outside the city to rural areas or agricultural tourism routes like the Estrada do Vinho.
Occasional food festivals (e.g., Festival Gastronômico de Curitiba) are held throughout the year. Check local event listings.
A bright yellow baked custard made with coconut, egg yolks, and sugar.
The national spirit of Brazil, made from fermented sugarcane juice. The base for the Caipirinha.
Curitiba values fresh, quality ingredients in its culinary scene, with a blend of local and European flavors.
Pinhão (pine nuts) are a seasonal highlight from May to July, widely found in local markets and dishes.
Strong Eastern European immigrant influence reflects in popular dishes like Pierogi.
Exploring Curitiba's food scene means more than just eating; it's an opportunity to immerse in the city's diverse heritage.
