Something of a secret culinary spot in Leblon, Formidable is a charming bistro with only a handful of tables inside (and a few tables out front). It has a chalkboard menu featuring beautifully executed French bistro classics such as bœuf bourguignon (beef stew braised in red wine), magret de canard (seared duck breast) and thon béarnaise (grilled tuna with béarnaise sauce).

Aside from the excellent main courses, don't skimp on dessert (profiteroles, crème brûlée). There are good wine selections as well. Come early to avoid a long wait.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Ipanema & Leblon attractions

1. Lurixs: Arte Contemporânea

0.35 MILES

One of Rio's top contemporary galleries moved to this Leblon location in 2017, and it continues to stage captivating exhibitions inside a four-story…

2. Praia de Leblon

0.36 MILES

Separated from Ipanema by the gardens and canal of Jardim de Alah, Leblon Beach attracts families and has a slightly more sedate vibe than its eastern…

5. Planetário

0.58 MILES

Gávea's stellar attraction, the Planetário features a museum, a praça dos telescópios (telescopes' square) and a couple of state-of-the-art operating…

6. Mirante do Leblon

0.6 MILES

A few fishers casting out to sea mingle with couples admiring the view at this overlook uphill from the western end of Leblon Beach. The luxury Sheraton…

7. Ipanema Beach

0.73 MILES

One long stretch of sun-drenched sand, Ipanema Beach is demarcated by postos (posts), which mark off subcultures as diverse as the city itself. Posto 9,…