Paraty is a charming coastal town on Brazil's Costa Verde, situated between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. Its well-kept historic area boasts cobblestone roads and vibrant Portuguese-style buildings from the 1700s.

Encircled by lush Atlantic forest and dotted with secluded coves, Paraty offers a mix of history, nature, and seaside allure. The town's relaxed atmosphere and car-free old center make it perfect for casual walks.

• Paraty's food combines Portuguese roots with fresh local ingredients
• The old town has many cozy eateries and cafes
• Local specialties include seafood and sugar cane spirit

What's on the menu in Paraty?

Paraty's food scene mixes Portuguese influences with locally sourced ingredients. The town's seaside spot means fish and shellfish are menu staples, while its past as a sugar cane and coffee producer shapes local tastes.

As you stroll the stone-paved streets, you'll spot various eateries, coffee shops, and pubs in colorful old buildings. Many have outdoor tables, ideal for watching passersby while enjoying your food.

Fresh fish and seafood are common here. Sample the moqueca, a tasty seafood stew with coconut milk, tomatoes, and spices. Another local favorite is peixe azul-marinho, a blue-tinted fish dish made with banana.

For those who prefer meat, try feijoada. This filling black bean and pork stew is often seen as Brazil's signature dish. Plant-based eaters have plenty of choices too, with dishes featuring local fruits, veggies, and mandioca (cassava).

Make sure to try some cachaça, the Brazilian sugar cane spirit. Paraty is known for its craft cachaças, and many distilleries offer samples. Have it in a caipirinha, Brazil's national drink made with cachaça, lime, and sugar.

Good spots to eat

Paraty's old town has many lovely places to eat. Here are some top choices:

1. Banana da Terra: This fancy spot serves creative Brazilian food using local ingredients. Their banana gnocchi and seafood risotto are worth trying.
2. Thai Brasil: For something different, this place offers great Thai food with a Brazilian twist.
3. Refúgio: A snug eatery known for fresh seafood and a romantic setting.
4. Margarida Café: A bright, casual place perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Try their tapiocas (Brazilian crepes).
5. Punto Divino: Great for pizza and pasta if you want Italian food.

For a quick bite or small meal, check out the food stands near the main square. You'll find local snacks like pão de queijo (cheese bread), coxinhas (chicken croquettes), and açaí bowls.

Street eats

While Paraty isn't famous for lots of street food, you can still find some tasty quick bites. Look for sellers offering:

• Pastel: Fried pastries with various fillings
• Tapioca: Gluten-free crepes made from cassava flour
• Milho verde: Boiled corn on the cob
• Queijo coalho: Grilled cheese on a stick

These are great for a quick snack while seeing the sights or relaxing on the beach.

Markets and local goods

To see local ingredients, visit the Mercado Municipal (Municipal Market). Here you'll find fresh produce, spices, and local specialties. It's a good place to buy ingredients if you're staying somewhere with a kitchen.

For a more traditional experience, check out the weekly farmers' market on Wednesdays. Local farmers sell fresh fruits, veggies, and homemade goods. It's a great chance to try unusual Brazilian fruits like jabuticaba, caju (cashew fruit), and graviola.

Seafood heaven

Given Paraty's coastal spot, seafood is a big part of the local food. Some dishes to try include:

• Camarão na moranga: Shrimp served in a pumpkin
• Lula recheada: Stuffed squid
• Peixe na folha de bananeira: Fish cooked in banana leaves

For the freshest catch, go to one of the beachfront eateries in nearby fishing villages like Trindade or Praia do Sono.

Trying cachaça

Paraty is known for its craft cachaça production. Several distilleries in and around town offer tours and tastings. Some popular options include:

• Engenho D'Ouro
• Maria Izabel
• Coqueiro

During a tasting, you'll learn about how it's made and try different types. It's a good way to appreciate this typical Brazilian spirit.

Coffee spots

Brazil is famous for its coffee, and Paraty has plenty to offer. Start your day with a strong cafezinho (small black coffee) at one of the town's cute cafes. Some top spots for coffee fans:

• Café Pingado
• Café Paraty
• Armazém da Canoa

Many cafes also serve pão na chapa (toasted bread with butter), a classic Brazilian breakfast.

Sweet stuff

Leave room for dessert! Brazilian sweets are often very rich and sugary. Some local favorites to try:

• Brigadeiro: Chocolate truffles
• Quindim: Coconut custard
• Goiabada: Guava paste often served with cheese
• Açaí na tigela: Frozen açaí berry pulp topped with granola and fruit

Special diets

If you have special dietary needs, you'll find options in Paraty, especially in the more touristy eateries. Vegetarian dishes are fairly easy to find, though vegan options might be more limited.

For those who can't eat gluten, many traditional Brazilian dishes are naturally gluten-free, like feijoada and tapioca crepes. However, always check with the restaurant staff.

Here's a quick guide to useful Portuguese phrases for special diets:

Eating on a budget

Watching your wallet? No problem! Here are some tips for eating well without spending too much:

• Look for prato feito or PF on menus. These are set meals usually including rice, beans, meat, and salad.
• Try the por kilo restaurants where you pay by weight of food on your plate.
• Get lunch at the Municipal Market for fresh, affordable options.
• Give street food a try - it's often the cheapest option.

Remember, lunch is typically the main meal in Brazil, and many eateries offer cheaper set menus at lunchtime.

Food gifts

Want to take some Paraty flavors home? Consider these food souvenirs:

• Craft cachaça
• Local coffee beans
• Goiabada or other fruit preserves
• Spice mixes

Many of these can be found at the Municipal Market or specialty shops in the old town.

FAQs

When's the best time for food fans to visit Paraty?

While Paraty's food is great all year, visiting during the Festa Literária Internacional de Paraty (FLIP) in July can be extra fun. Many eateries create special menus for the event, and you'll find food stalls and cultural activities throughout town.

Can I go on food tours in Paraty?

Yes, several companies run food tours in Paraty. These can be a great way to try various local dishes and learn about the town's food history. Ask local tour operators or your hotel for suggestions.

Is the tap water safe to drink in Paraty?

It's usually best to stick to bottled water in Paraty. Most eateries will serve filtered or bottled water. If you're staying for a while, think about buying a large jug of water to refill your bottle.