Salvador, the vibrant capital of Bahia, is a city rich in cultural heritage and culinary diversity. Known for its blend of African, Indigenous, and European influences, Salvador offers a unique gastronomic experience. From street food vendors serving traditional Bahian snacks to upscale restaurants offering gourmet dishes, Salvador’s dining scene has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best restaurants in Salvador, showcasing the city’s diverse and delicious cuisine.
Must-Try Restaurants in Salvador
1. Acarajé de Cira
Street Food Delight
For an authentic taste of Salvador, start with Acarajé de Cira. Known for its iconic black-eyed pea fritters, this street food vendor is a local favorite. Enjoy acarajé filled with vatapá (a creamy shrimp paste) and complemented by fresh vegetables and spicy sauces.
2. Restaurante do Senac
Traditional Bahian Cuisine
Located in Pelourinho, Restaurante do Senac offers a buffet-style experience featuring traditional Bahian dishes. Sample a variety of local specialties, including moqueca (seafood stew), vatapá, and caruru (okra stew), in an elegant colonial setting.
3. Amado
Fine Dining with a View
Amado, helmed by chef Edinho Engel, is one of Salvador’s top fine dining destinations. The restaurant’s menu features innovative dishes like grilled fish with cashew nut farofa and duck magret with creamy polenta. The stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean enhance the dining experience.
4. Casa de Tereza
Eclectic Bahian Flavors
Chef Tereza Paim’s Casa de Tereza is a culinary journey through Bahian flavors. The menu blends traditional ingredients with modern techniques, offering dishes like dendê-infused seafood and slow-cooked meats. The charming decor and warm atmosphere make it a must-visit.
5. Paraíso Tropical
Fusion of Local Ingredients
Chef Beto Pimentel’s Paraíso Tropical is celebrated for its creative use of local ingredients. Signature dishes include dandá de camarão (yucca stew with shrimp) and rice with peguari (fighting conch). The restaurant’s lush garden setting adds to its unique appeal.
Casual Dining and Bars
6. Boteco do França
Relaxed Atmosphere
Boteco do França is the perfect spot for a casual meal or drinks with friends. Located in the Carmo neighborhood, this bar offers a variety of snacks, including crispy cod fritters and falafel Baiano. Enjoy refreshing cocktails and soak in the lively atmosphere.
7. Di Janela
Cozy and Casual
Initially a place for friends, Di Janela quickly became a popular casual dining spot. Located near Pelourinho, this restaurant offers well-crafted snacks like arancini Baiano and hearty dishes such as octopus rice. The sidewalk seating is perfect for people-watching.
8. Bar do Jonas
Lively Nightlife
For a taste of Salvador’s nightlife, head to Bar do Jonas in the Rio Vermelho neighborhood. This lively bar serves tasty petiscos (snacks) like jerked beef with squash puree and cod fritters. Try Bahia’s take on roskas, fruity vodka-based caipirinhas, for a refreshing drink.
Contemporary and Innovative
9. Origem
Culinary Exploration
Chef Fabrício Lemos’ Origem offers an innovative approach to Bahian cuisine. The 14-course tasting menu features dishes inspired by African roots, native traditions, and modern techniques. Highlights include breaded shrimp in cornmeal and tuna belly with lucine clam foam.
10. 705 Restaurante e Bar
Eclectic Menu
705 Restaurante e Bar offers a diverse menu blending contemporary Brazilian, Latin, and Mediterranean influences. Chef Raony Menezes creates flavorful dishes like seafood rice with shrimp and octopus, and a sharable moqueca with coconut rice.
11. Boia
Modern Seafood
Chef Kaywa Wilton’s Boia showcases the versatility of seafood with modern inventions like crab hot dogs and fish tiradito. The cozy restaurant with a backyard surrounded by fruit trees offers a weekly changing lunch menu based on fresh, local ingredients.
Seafood Specialities
12. Preta
Beachside Dining
Located behind the Bonfim Church, Preta offers a seafood-focused menu with stunning views of Todos os Santos Bay. Enjoy dishes like shrimp in tapioca batter and a broiled seafood platter. Chef Deliene Mota’s plantain stew is a great option for vegetarians.
13. Omí
Seafood Heaven
Part of chef Fabrício Lemos’ culinary empire, Omí focuses on fresh, locally sourced seafood. The menu features dishes like grilled shrimp with jurubeba and a seafood mix with lobster and mussels. The restaurant’s elegant setting makes it perfect for special occasions.
Salvador’s diverse restaurant scene reflects its rich cultural heritage and vibrant culinary traditions. Whether you’re craving traditional Bahian dishes, innovative contemporary cuisine, or a casual meal with friends, the best restaurants in Salvador offer an unforgettable dining experience.
