Rio de Janeiro Restaurants

  1. Azumi

    Some claim Azumi is the bastion of traditional Japanese cuisine in the city. This laid-back sushi bar certainly has its fans - both in the Nisei community and from abroad. Azumi's sushiman (sushi chef) masterfully prepares delectable sushi and sashimi, though tempuras and soups are also excellent. Be sure to ask what's in season.

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  2. Miss Tanaka

    Much to the delight of Leme residents, this former Jardim Botânico mainstay moved into the neighborhood in late 2007. The marvelously whimsical interior is like a paean to the gods of kitsch with hanging flower chandeliers, shelves lined with dolls and Buddhas and wallpaper that's pure eye candy. The cuisine is no less delightful, with delicious appetizers and mouth-watering sushi.

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  3. Nakombi

    Another São Paulo transplant that opened in Rio in 2007, Nakombi quickly become a favorite for its excellent sushi and its over-the-top design. Inside the airy, 700-sq-meter multi-level interior, you'll find hundreds of Buddhas encased in the walls and floor, a mini waterfall and an upstairs with a retractable roof and a DJ booth.

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  4. Nik Sushi

    This simple but stylish Japanese restaurant has earned many loyal customers for its decent prices and delicately prepared dishes. Grilled items are available but are not as popular as the sushi - owing largely to the all-you-can-eat sushi lunches and dinners.

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  5. Sansushi

    This tiny sushi spot on Santa Teresa's main strip attracts a loyal local following with its delectable sushi and sashimi (36 varieties) as well as teriyaki and other hot dishes.

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  6. Sushi Leblon

    Leblon's top sushi destination boasts a Zen like ambience with a handsome, dark wood sushi counter setting the stage for succulent cuisine. In addition to sashimi and sushi, you'll find grilled namorado (a type of perch) with passion fruit farofa, sea-urchin ceviche and refreshing sake to complement the meal.

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