Belo Horizonte, often celebrated as the bar capital of Brazil, boasts over 9,500 bars, averaging 28 per square kilometer. This vibrant city offers a bar for every 200 inhabitants, in stark contrast to São Paulo’s 387 per bar. With such a rich and diverse bar scene, finding the perfect spot can be a delightful adventure. Here, we explore some of the city’s best bars, each offering a unique experience that reflects the authentic culture and hospitality of Belo Horizonte.
Bar do Juveninha
Location: Rua Castelo da Beira, 262 – Castelo
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 11 AM to 1 AM
Known for its warm and speedy service, Bar do Juveninha becomes particularly lively on Mondays with their complimentary churrasco night. Classic bar snacks like stuffed tongue, turkey neck, and pork knuckle are perennial favorites.
Bolota’s Bar
Location: Rua Capivari, 433 – Serra
Hours: Monday, 11 AM to 10 PM; Tuesday, 11 AM to 12 AM; Wednesday to Friday, 11 AM to 10 PM; Saturday, 11 AM to 9 PM; Sunday, 11 AM to 8 PM
Though established in 2018, Bolota’s Bar evokes the charm of traditional bars with its vintage decor. The standout dishes include pastel de angu, shrimp pastries, and the unique ‘prexeca’ – a breaded meatball.
Bola Bar
Location: R. Padre Eustáquio, 2512 – Padre Eustáquio
Hours: Daily, 8 AM to 1 AM
A timeless establishment since 1939, Bola Bar in Padre Eustáquio offers classic bar fare such as pork feet, sausage, and the coveted cooked tongue. The bar’s friendly service and chilled beer make it a neighborhood staple.
Bar da Cida
Location: R. Numa Nogueira, 287 – Floramar
Hours: Wednesday to Friday, 5 PM to 11:30 PM; Saturday and Sunday, 1 PM to 11:30 PM
Famed for its hearty caldos, Bar da Cida excels in both cold and warm weather. The homemade taste of the dishes, like the creatively named ‘Ah Mureira’ and ‘Como’ela no Floramar’, keeps patrons coming back.
Cervejaria Bistecão
Location: Rua Jacarina, 61 – Padre Eustáquio
Hours: Monday to Friday, 5 PM to 12 AM; Saturday, 11:30 AM to 12 AM; Sunday and holidays, 11:30 AM to 5:30 PM
This classic bar serves generously portioned dishes in a relaxed setting. Highlights include serenaded meat with fried jiló and various grilled meats served on a hot plate.
Ofélia
Location: Rua Rio Grande do Norte, 311 – Santa Efigênia
Hours: Tuesday to Thursday, 6 PM to 12 AM; Friday, 6 PM to 1 AM; Saturday, 1 PM to 1 AM; Sunday, 12 PM to 8 PM
Occupying a quirky, multi-roomed house, Ofélia impresses with its imaginative décor and tarot-themed cocktails like ‘A Morte’ and ‘O Pendurado’. Wednesdays feature tarot readings for an extra mystical touch.
Alaíde Botequim
Location: Av. Dr. Cristiano Guimarães, 1389 – Planalto
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 11 AM to 11 PM; Sunday, 11 AM to 8 PM
Alaíde Botequim is famous in the North Region for its array of delectable bolinhos. From shrimp with requeijão to classic feijoada, the bar’s offerings are a treat for all.
Já Tô Inno
Location: Rua Benjamin Dias, 379 – Barreiro
Hours: Monday to Friday, 5:30 PM to 11 PM; Saturday, 3 PM to 10:30 PM
A multi-award winner in the Comida di Buteco contest, Já Tô Inno offers standout dishes like the ‘jeitinho mineiro’ and ‘já tô innrolando’. This bar is a must-visit in the Barreiro region.
Bar do João
Location: Rua Geralda Marinho, 117 – São João Batista
Hours: Monday to Friday, 5 PM to 12 AM; Saturday and Sunday, 12 PM to 12 AM
A Venda Nova favorite, Bar do João serves iconic dishes like tongue in sauce. The bar also offers modern conveniences like a kid-friendly area, making it a great spot for families.
Nada Contra
Location: Rua dos Aimorés, 629 – Funcionários
Hours: Tuesday to Friday, 4 PM to 11 PM; Saturday, 11 AM to 11 PM; Sunday, 11 AM to 4 PM
Combining old-school bar vibes with the culinary talents of Chef Samira Lyrio, Nada Contra features elevated classics such as moela with cognac and oxtail with wine.
Belo Horizonte’s bar scene is a testament to the city’s love for good food, great drinks, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these bars is sure to offer a memorable experience.
