Bar
Boteco Belmonte
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Boteco Belmonte is a quintessential Rio de Janeiro boteco (informal bar) that has been a Copacabana institution for decades. Located on Rua Domingos Ferreira, just a few blocks from the beach, it offers a classic carioca experience: patrons spill onto the sidewalk, balancing tall glasses of chopp (draft beer) and plates of bolinho de bacalhau (codfish fritters) or caldo de feijão (bean soup). The interior is no-frills, with tiled floors, wooden stools, and a long counter where bartenders work quickly. What makes Belmonte distinctive is its unpretentious authenticity, it's a place where locals gather after work or on weekends to catch up, watch football on the TV, and enjoy generous portions of bar food at fair prices. The energy is high, especially during happy hour, and the service is famously efficient despite the crowds.
Don't miss
- Order the house specialty: ice-cold chopp (draft beer) served with a frothy head
- Try the bolinho de bacalhau (codfish fritters) or the pastel de camarão (shrimp pastry)
- Watch the bartenders expertly pour multiple glasses of beer at once
- People-watch from a sidewalk table as Copacabana life buzzes by
- Soak in the classic boteco atmosphere with tiled walls and wooden bar stools
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Boteco Belmonte
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Boteco Belmonte with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inCapoeira Classes for Beginners in Rio de Janeiro5★ · 29 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$17 per personSee dates →
Most bookedFavela Tour in Rio de Janeiro4.6★ · 508 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$33 per personSee dates →
Private & flexiblePrivate Walking and Cultural Tour Rocinha-Rio de Janeiro5★ · 250 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$65 per personSee dates →Know before you go
- Cash is preferred for small tabs, though cards are accepted.
- Chopp is served in 300ml or 600ml glasses; start with a pequeno (small).
- It gets packed on Friday and Saturday evenings, arrive early for a seat.
- The sidewalk seating is covered, but rain can still dampen the experience.
A bit of history
Founded in 1952, Boteco Belmonte is one of the oldest surviving botecos in Copacabana. It became a neighborhood staple during Rio's golden age of beach culture and has maintained its original character through decades of change.
Common questions
Is there an English menu?
The menu is mostly in Portuguese, but staff are used to tourists and can help. Try pointing at what others are eating.
Can I just have a drink without food?
Absolutely, many people come only for chopp. But the petiscos are a highlight.
Is it safe at night?
The area is generally safe, but keep an eye on your belongings as with any busy city bar.
Do they have vegetarian options?
Yes, try the pastel de queijo (cheese pastry) or the bolinho de aipim (cassava fritters).
What's the best dish to share?
The bolinho de bacalhau is a classic, but the caldo de feijão (bean soup) is also beloved.
Is there a dress code?
No, flip-flops and beachwear are fine, but many locals dress casually smart.
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