Azumi

Sushi is taken seriously but the atmosphere is lighthearted at this excellent Japanese restaurant at the Leme end of Copacabana. Sushi and sashimi abound in seemingly endless variations, while edamame beans are satisfyingly crunchy and miso soup feels suitably health-giving. Dine at the counter or seated on cushions around ultra-low tables, and sip on a fresh fruit juice, Japanese beer or, to perfectly combine the tastes of Japan and Brazil, a caipisake - a twist on the classic caipirinha cocktail, using Japanese rice wine in place of cachaca rum.