Garota da Urca

This welcoming spot by the beach in the gentile neigbourhood of Urca is actually part of a Rio bar-restaurant chain, but is no less appealing for that. The location, right by the sands and within a few minutes' stroll from Sugar Loaf mountain, is unbeatable, the service is snappy and the wait staff friendly, and the menu features a good mix of local main dishes and finger foods. Try the portion of pasteis (small pastries filled with shrimp, cheese, or meat) for a snack to share, or the fish dishes for something more substantial, and wash it down with an ice cold beer (there's a good range of bottled and draught here) or a tangy caipirinha.