SAO PAULO GUIDE

HISTORICAL IMPORTANCE OF SAO PAULO

CHURRASCO

Churrasco is a traditional Brazilian barbecue style that holds deep cultural significance across the country, particularly in regions like São Paulo. It involves grilling various cuts of meat, typically beef, pork, chicken, and sausages, over an open flame or charcoal grill. The meats are often seasoned with rock salt and sometimes marinated to enhance flavor. Churrasco is not just a meal but a social event, where friends and family gather to enjoy the grilled meats served rodizio-style—continuous tableside service of skewers brought to each diner by passadores (meat waiters). It's accompanied by sides such as farofa (toasted cassava flour), rice, beans, and salads, creating a festive and indulgent dining experience that celebrates Brazilian culinary traditions and hospitality.

 TAPIOCA

Tapioca in Brazil refers to a popular food made from cassava root, known locally as "mandioca" or "aipim." It's a versatile ingredient used in various forms throughout Brazilian cuisine. Tapioca is most commonly known for its use in making tapioca pearls or flour, which are gluten-free alternatives used in baking and cooking. In northeastern Brazil, tapioca flour is used to make a traditional breakfast or snack called "tapioca," which is similar to a crepe. The flour is hydrated with water and then heated on a hot griddle until it forms a flat, thin pancake. It's then filled with a variety of ingredients, such as cheese, coconut, chocolate, or savory fillings like shredded chicken or carne de sol (sun-dried beef). Tapioca is loved for its light, chewy texture and its ability to be customized with both sweet and savory flavors, making it a beloved staple in Brazilian cuisine.

PASTEL

Pastel is a popular Brazilian street food that originated from Portuguese cuisine. It consists of thin pastry dough, usually rectangular or half-moon-shaped, filled with a variety of savory ingredients and then deep-fried until crispy. The filling options for pastel are diverse and can include ingredients such as ground meat (carne moída), cheese (queijo), shrimp (camarão), hearts of palm (palmito), and more. Pastel is often enjoyed as a quick and affordable snack found at street markets, fairs, and pastelarias (specialty shops). It's typically served hot and crispy, often accompanied by spicy pepper sauce or a squeeze of lime juice for added flavor. Pastel has become a beloved part of Brazilian culinary culture, offering a delicious and portable option for a quick bite any time of day.

VIRADO A PAULISTA

Virado à Paulista is a traditional dish from São Paulo state, Brazil, known for its hearty and flavorful combination of ingredients. It typically consists of rice, tutu de feijão (a thick bean puree made from black beans), slices of bisteca (pork chops or beef steak), fried banana, sautéed collard greens, and pork cracklings. The dish reflects the region's agricultural and culinary heritage, blending Portuguese, indigenous, and African influences. Virado à Paulista is enjoyed for its satisfying mix of textures and savory flavors, making it a beloved comfort food that showcases São Paulo's rich culinary traditions.

 BAURU

Bauru is a popular Brazilian sandwich named after the city of Bauru in São Paulo state, where it originated. This sandwich typically consists of a French bun (often called "pão francês" in Brazil) sliced horizontally and filled with roast beef, melted cheese (usually mozzarella), sliced tomatoes, and pickles. Some variations may include additional ingredients like mayonnaise, lettuce, and sometimes ham or bacon. Bauru sandwiches are usually grilled or pressed to melt the cheese and warm the ingredients, creating a delicious and hearty snack or meal. The sandwich is beloved across Brazil and has become a staple in many local bakeries, restaurants, and snack bars, offering a satisfying blend of savory flavors and textures.

 HOW MANY DAYS SHOULD YOU SPEND IN SAO PAULO?