Insiders: Manuella Llamas, Stylish Carioca
Favorites from a Rio-born Club member.
Manuella Llamas spends a lot of time traversing between her homes in Washington, DC and in Rio de Janeiro. With fresh and new eyes, she sees Rio actively reinventing itself. This Brazilian metropolis is at once timeless and incredibly fashion-forward, so we asked her to share where she stays, sips, eats, shops, and suns when she returns home:
STAY
This is the best hotel and the hot spot. It also has an amazing Italian restaurant.
https://www.fasano.com.br/hotel/fasano-rio-de-janeiro/
This past trip I stayed here and liked it a lot - it's in Copacabana vs Ipanema (Ipanema is a better location) but it also has a beautiful rooftop pool with views of Copacabana Beach.
EAT
The best sushi in Rio & good celebrity spotting. However, there was a fire in the kitchen recently and they are temporarily closed.
This is a hole in the wall and one of the local spots that I love for a healthy lunch - think organic salads, etc. I have their cookbook too and love it.
http://celeiroculinaria.com.br/
Bar Bracarense
A Rio institution for cold “Chopp” (beer) and fried cod balls ("Bolinhos de Bacalhau") and other appetizers.
A local's spot with delicious food.
Fancy seafood joint that been there forever – always a solid option.
Casual spot - the best fresh squeezed juices and açaí bowls.
SEE
Pepe Beach in Barra da Tijuca is about 20 mins by cab (without traffic) from Ipanema. The beach is cleaner than most and has kite surfers. While there, have a "sandwich natural" at the Pepe stand.
Joatinga is a small beach between São Conrado and Barra da Tijuca. It's not easy to get there, but worth it.
If you are up to a real adventure, consider hang gliding. My cousin's friend, Mosquito, takes people on trips. His contact is (+55) 21-99989-5507.
SHOP
I love this spot for the variety of shopping.
https://shoppingleblon.com.br/
My Favorite Brands (some that sell in the US):
Best work out clothes - I always get asked where from when wearing this brand -
Adriana Degreas and Vix have best bathing suits and cover ups. They sell in US but are cheaper in Brasil
Image Sources: Fasano, Conde Nast Traveler, Michelin, Instagram, Veja SP, O Globo, Trip Expert, Eating the World, Envato, BeachSearcher, Tailor Luxury Travel, Adriana Degreas
Syllogi’s ‘Insiders’ interviews various subject matter experts who are travelling the globe, both personally and professionally, and share their favorite tips and recommendations.
