EAT, DRINK, EXPLORE: SÃO PAULO

EAT 

You can’t visit São Paulo without trying feijoada, a hearty black bean stew packed with slow-cooked pork and served with rice, collard greens, and crispy farofa (toasted cassava flour). This dish is a Brazilian staple, especially enjoyed on Wednesdays and Saturdays when locals gather at botecos (casual bars) and markets to share a meal. Find a cozy spot, grab a plate, and experience one of Brazil’s most beloved comfort foods! 

Top Cultural Foods To Try in São Paulo

Excited to live like a local in São Paulo? This city is a foodie paradise, and these dishes are a big part of why it is such a vibrant and diverse culinary hub.

• Sanduíche de Mortadela: This is not your average sandwich, it's an iconic part of São Paulo's food scene. The Mortadella sandwich is a sandwich piled high with a staggering amount of sliced mortadella, often grilled or fried, and served on a fresh roll. This famous creation from the Municipal Market is a must-try for its sheer size and its delicious and savory flavor, which perfectly captures the city's lively energy.
• Pastel: If you are looking for the perfect street food, look no further! A pastel is a deep-fried, thin pastry shell that is often filled with either savory or sweet ingredients. Think of it as a large extra-crispy spring roll that is tailored to your favorite flavor preferences. In São Paulo, you will find pastels with classic fillings like ground meat and cheese, often sold at open-air markets.
• Feijoada: This is Brazil's national dish, and in São Paulo it is the ultimate weekend meal. Feijoada is a rich and hearty stew made from black beans and a mixture of pork and beef. It is a communal meal, often served with rice, collard greens, and sliced oranges that is traditionally eaten on Saturdays at restaurants and family homes.

DRINK 

Need a quick energy boost between classes and city adventures? São Paulo’s juice bars are legendary, and vitamina de frutas (a thick, fruit-packed smoothie) is the go-to drink. Blended with tropical fruits like açaí, mango, and papaya, sometimes with a splash of milk or yogurt, it’s the perfect refreshment for the city's fast-paced vibe. 

Top Cultural Drinks To Try in São Paulo

Here are some of the top traditional drinks to try while you're studying in São Paulo:

• Caipirinha :Give Brazil's national cocktail a try! A Caipirinha is a refreshing mix of cachaça (a Brazilian spirit made from sugarcane), fresh lime, and sugar, all served over ice. It's a local classic and a must-try at any bar or restaurant.
• Garapa: If you are a fan of natural and sweet drinks, it's absolutely worth finding a local street vendor selling Garapa. This delicious drink is made with fresh sugarcane juice, and vendors press the sugarcane right in front of you using a special machine. The result is a naturally sweet and vibrant green drink that is a classic street-side experience perfect for a hot day in Brazil.
• Fresh Market Juices: São Paulo is a major hub for tropical fruits, and the best way to enjoy them is by getting a fresh juice at one of the city's many markets. You can try a variety of amazing fruits you might not have seen before, like passion fruit, mango, guava, or even açaí. These juices are a great way to experience the biodiversity of Brazil all while cooling down with refreshments that are close to the heart of Brazil's culture!

EXPLORE 

Avenida Paulista is the cultural and financial hub of São Paulo, home to world-class museums like the São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP), vibrant street markets, and impressive skyscrapers. On Sundays, the avenue closes to traffic, turning into a pedestrian-friendly space filled with live music, food vendors, and local artists. The surrounding area offers bookstores, shopping centers, and some of the city’s best coffee shops, making it a key spot to experience São Paulo’s dynamic energy.

Top Cultural Attractions to Visit in São Paulo

Here are some of the top cultural attractions to visit while you're studying in São Paulo:

• Parque Ibirapuera: Think of this as São Paulo's version of Central Park, but with a wonderfully Brazilian twist. It's the city's largest green space and a go-to spot for locals to chill, exercise, and hang out. Besides its beautiful lawns and lakes, the park is also home to some cool museums and cultural buildings designed by the famous architect Oscar Niemeyer.
• Beco do Batman (Batman Alley): This is a total must-see for anyone who loves art! Tucked away in the Vila Madalena neighborhood, this alley is a kaleidoscope of vibrant and ever-changing street art and graffiti. Every time you visit, the art might be different as local artists are always adding new pieces. Walking through Beco do Batman is an incredible way to experience the uniquely creative culture of São Paulo!
• Mercado Central: This historic market is a bustling hub where both locals and tourists come to find fresh produce, spices, and exotic fruits. You will be enchanted by the incredible sights, sounds, and smells while shopping for the most mouth-watering products and treats.

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