8 Brazilian dishes you have to try in Fortaleza

Churrasco. Image by Leonardo Sakaki. Cropped from original. License: CC BY-SA 4.0

Churrasco, an ancient alchemy of grilling meat to absolute perfection, takes center stage in Brazilian culinary traditions. Picture skewers elegantly rotating above open pits, guided by skilled hands. With each turn, the outer layers acquire a delectable sear, exposing the inner core and releasing a rare, enchanting medley of flavors. Churrasco typically features picanha, an iconic beef cut sourced from the rump muscle with a substantial fat cap. Yet, the experience extends its variety by incorporating selections like alcatra and fraldinha, alongside the savory companionship of ribs, lamb, and flavorful sausages. In the traditional seasoning approach, churrasco relies on coarse salt, complemented by a chimichurri sauce when served.

It’s interesting to note that the dish traces its roots back to the 17th century, when Southern Brazilian gauchos first ignited the flame for this carnivorous delight. Emerging from humble family farms, the practice has since surpassed geographical boundaries, becoming a global sensation that graces churrascarias across the country. Fortaleza is no exception, hosting excellent restaurants where you can revel in this protein-packed feast.

Since 1995, Dom Churrasco has been crafting unique and memorable moments on the vibrant waterfront of Fortaleza. Nestled just a stone's throw from the beach, the restaurant is a bustling haven of joy where people gather around sizzling churrasco sharing laughter and conviviality. The ambiance is simple yet welcoming, with air-conditioned zones inside and plenty of outdoor tables to relish the sunset with a glass of cold beer in the heart of Fortaleza's famous Beira-Mar.

While it may not scream fancy, it speaks volumes in terms of fantastic food at a very reasonable price. Specializing in charcoal-grilled delights, the spot offers a mouthwatering array of premium beef cuts, pork, and chicken. If you haven't yet developed a penchant for local barbecues, consider your taste buds officially initiated. Elevate your experience with regional staples like maminha, carne de sol, moqueca, and baião de dois. Additionally, Dom Churrasco surprises with international treats, including tuna with sesame crust, shrimp-based dishes, pizzas, mushroom fettuccine, and more. By the way, though the prices are already attractive, you can catch their happy hours for an even more budget-friendly deal.

Feijoada at Cantinho do Frango. Photo from FB: https://www.facebook.com/cantinhodofrango

In the gastronomic heart of Brazil, feijoada reigns supreme as the undisputed national culinary staple. With regional varieties, the dish unfolds like a flavorful map, transforming exploration of the country into a mouthwatering adventure. Basically, it's a robust stew featuring black beans and different kinds of meat, mostly beef and pork, often crowned with farofa – a golden touch of toasted cassava flour. To truly embrace the full feijoada experience, anticipate a platter adorned with a bed of greens, fluffy rice, crispy bacon bits, crunchy pork crackling, and strategically placed slices of oranges – a considerate addition to aid in the digestion of this hearty treat.

Regarding the origins of this culinary masterpiece, there are two main theories. Some attribute its beginnings to the resourcefulness of African slaves, who turned leftover scraps into a nourishing stew. Others suggest a European influence, dating back to the 16th century, when settlers blended beans and meat into a simple yet delicious concoction. Anyway, today, savoring feijoada is a lively plunge into Brazilian culture. Traditionally relished as a leisurely lunch, followed by a relaxed break to allow the satisfying feast to settle, it's a vibrant celebration of shared moments.

Operating since 1994, Cantinho do Frango has earned a stellar reputation, proudly crowned as the best corner in town by Ceará state residents. Actually, it’s more than just a restaurant; it's a bustling cultural complex that serves as a venue for artistic performances, hosts a vinyl store, a galeteria, a cachaça club, and even a barbershop. In other words, this is a vibrant hub loved by locals, with a lively and diverse atmosphere. If you come here for gastronomic experiences, prepare to be treated to exquisite flavors and feel like you're at home of close friends.

With over 250 options on the menu, Cantinho do Frango not only showcases the richness of regional culinary traditions but also pays homage to international delights. Among their staple dishes, relish melt-in-your-mouth tilapia fish with a secret seasoning, indulge in grilled chicken topped with melted curd cheese, or appreciate the genuine northeastern delicacy – panelada crafted from a cherished family recipe.

La Donosti - Agudos - Coxinha de Leitoa_Romerito Pontes. Image by Romerito Pontes from São Carlos. License: CC BY 2.0

Craving some authentic street food that goes beyond ordinary wings in Fortaleza? Embark on a coxinha hunt. These croquette-like morsels playfully mimic the appearance of chicken thighs before revealing a delightful surprise beneath their crispy exterior. Actually, coxinhas are a crunchy base of dough and bread crumbs, cradling a juicy mix of shredded chicken and velvety cream cheese. However, you can often stumble upon non-traditional filling variations – think fruits, corn, peas, mushrooms, and more. In any scenario, coxinhas nail that unmistakable combo – a crispy shell embracing a tender inside. No wonder, they are omnipresent – from small street food stalls to chic restaurants served as a delectable appetizer. 

Incidentally, there's an intriguing legend behind the creation of the dish: these golden bites were supposedly crafted exclusively for the Brazilian princess Isabel's son, who had a taste for nothing but poultry. Yet, the true story might lean more towards pragmatism. Food historians suspect coxinhas were likely born during São Paulo's industrial revolution in the 19th century, emerging as a cost-effective and resilient substitute for much-loved chicken cuts.

Floresta Complexo is a sprawling venue brimming with authentic environments, diverse gastronomy, top-notch music, and a one-of-a-kind energy. This isn't just a place to dine; it's the ultimate destination for socializing, dancing, and listening to live bands. You'll discover different areas on several floors, equipped with air-conditioning, boasting modern design, and adorned with photos of famous artists. Moreover, it’s a fantastic venue for families too, complete with a large play area for kids, watched over by attentive staff. Outdoors, you'll enjoy the lush greenery and ambient lights. In other words, everyone can find their perfect spot here. 

Indulge in the restaurant’s specialties like coxinha with green dough stuffed with sautéed crab meat and olives, feijoada fritters, pastel with cheese, or dive into substantial picancha with French fries, carne-de-sol with baião and fried cassava, and more. For a fully satisfying experience, enjoy a variety of beers and refreshing cocktails, all complemented by pocket-friendly prices.

Carne de sol com pirão de leite. Image by Marcelo Träsel from Porto Alegre, Brasil. Cropped from original. License: CC BY-SA 2.0

When exploring local meats, make sure to dig into the exquisite universe of carne-de-sol, culinary heritage of Northeastern Brazil's sun-kissed landscapes that weaves together the flavors of tradition and time. Literally translating to “meat of the sun”, this delicacy showcases cured premium cuts, like alcatra and fraldinha. It actually emerged as a solution to keeping fresh meat in the region’s hot, dry environment, with limited access to refrigeration. In the modern context, though, it is often dried in a covered and well-ventilated location for up to 4 days. Following a quick soak to reduce salt levels, it's ready for frying, grilling, or simmering to perfection.

Thus, while the roots of this dish are steeped in a common centuries-old preservation method, the recipes have evolved, transforming beef or sometimes goat into a sought-after culinary creation celebrated for its distinctive taste and tenderness. For the most authentic experience, carne-de-sol finds its perfect companions in toasted cassava flour, known as farofa, along with rice, beans, green salad, fried bananas, and the creamy delight of pirão made from manioc flour.

Coco Bambu is a well-known chain renowned for its expertise in seafood, offering a pleasant dining experience that highlights the best of Brazil’s culinary traditions. We recommend heading to Coco Bambu Beira Mar branch to indulge in the authentic flavors of carne-de-sol while soaking in the picturesque waterfront views. This spacious restaurant has five distinct areas: the main room, garden, mezzanine, terrace, and veranda. In this versatile setting, rustic and elegant elements seamlessly harmonize with tropical and beachy vibes. Groovy tunes fill the air, providing the ideal backdrop for some downright unforgettable moments, complemented by refreshing draft beer. 

The menu, boasting a myriad of options, might take a moment to navigate and leave you feeling lost. But here’s the hint: seize the opportunity to try their northeastern carne-de-sol. Whether in the form of escondidinho, a traditional Brazilian casserole, or accompanied by rice pudding with curd cheese, it's a culinary experience not to be missed. Venture beyond with seafood delights, ranging from shrimps in pumpkin to luscious risotto and succulent lobsters. Finally, satisfy your sweet tooth with delectable cocada, a perfect pairing with coffee.

Moqueca de peixe. Image by BR. Cropped from original. License: CC BY-SA 4.0

When you're craving a switch from meat to the bounties of the sea, Fortaleza beckons with its abundant treasures. As the coastal city's specialty, seafood is presented in various creations, and one star you absolutely shouldn't miss is authentic fish stew called moqueca. This scrumptious dish is a thrilling ride for your taste buds: imagine a tantalizing medley of garlic, onions, herbs and peppers, and a perfect balance of citrusy brightness and earthy richness. Cooked in a traditional clay pot that enhances the flavors, it's elevated by the velvety embrace of coconut milk, where the firm consistency of white fish intertwines with the succulence of shrimps and shellfish. The irreplaceable touch comes from red palm oil, imparting a slightly nutty taste and a vibrant orange hue. Moqueca is typically served over a bed of rice, garnished with fresh lime and cilantro for that extra burst of flavor. 

Interestingly, it's not just incredibly delicious; it's like a living history book right on your plate where you can read influences of indigenous, African, and Portuguese culinary traditions. This gastronomic tale unfolds from the ancient practice of wrapping fish in leaves called pokeka to the infusion of European vegetable stews, culminating in the African touch with dendê oil, chili pepper, and coconut milk.

For nearly two decades, Camarada Camarão has been bringing the warmth and vibrant flavors of the northeastern coast to plates across its chain. In Fortaleza, situated within the RioMar shopping mall, the restaurant serves as a convenient spot for lunch or dinner, surrounded by beige tones, rustic details, and delicate lighting. 

With over 50 shrimp-centric dishes prepared in various styles – whether grilled, stuffed, breaded, in gratin, or bathed in wine sauce – you quickly realize who is the main star of the house. Complementing the shrimp parade are the finest fish, lobster, and octopus sourced from trusted suppliers, ensuring traceable and sustainable origins for all ingredients. That being said, what better place to indulge in moquecas than Camarada Camarão? Skillfully prepared in clay pots, this traditional dish is accompanied by white rice, dendê farofa, and pirão, offering an authentic and flavorful taste. Save some room for desserts because they will leave you unable to resist. Choose from Brazilian cake roll with guava filling, baked cocada served with vanilla ice cream and passion fruit syrup, or chocolate brownie with dulce de leche.

Baião de Dois com acompanhamento de mandioquinha. Image by Zé Carlos Barretta. License: CC BY 2.0

It's true that the classic combo of rice and beans is a culinary anthem nationwide, but let's shine a spotlight on a unique rendition from Ceará state – baião de dois. Remarkably, it bears a poetic name, translating to “dance for two”, mirroring the close partnership of two main ingredients in perfect harmony. In fact, baião is both a traditional music style and a folk dance from Northeastern Brazil. The dish gained popularity in the mid-20th century, accompanied by a catchy song by musicians Humberto Teixeira and Luís Gonzaga, further cementing its place in local culture.

Born out of necessity during challenging times as a nourishing treat, baião de dois combined satisfying rice, black-eyed peas, and leftovers. Today, it is a gastronomic phenomenon that boasts a wealth of recipes across the country, often featuring carne-de-sol, pork, cheese, bacon, and garnished with a generous handful of freshly chopped cilantro and chives.

Kina do Feijão Verde beckons you to savor the essence of Ceará through a selection of local bean, lamb, beef, and seafood delicacies. With two floors of captivating old-school dining rooms and a terrace, the restaurant stands as a constant hub of activity, attracting locals who flock here for satisfying meals that hit the right notes. No frills, just delicious fare where authenticity seamlessly meets affordability.

At Kina do Feijão Verde, you can enjoy an array of regional delights such as maminha, panelada, crispy pastels, bolinha, and savory lamb. On the menu, keep an eye out for the intriguingly named “100% nordestino” dish, promising the most genuine culinary adventure. It reveals baião for two – quite literally served for two – featuring carne-de-sol, rapadura, manioc, red onion, and egg. Alternatively, make sure to indulge in a steaming pot of the house’s signature specialty: creamy beans adorned with cheese and tender sun-dried meat. For dessert, brigadeiro tart is an interesting option, a perfect finale to your feast of national staples.

Acarajé at Cozinha do Acarajé. Photo from: https://www.instagram.com/cozinhadoacaraje

Acarajé is another street-food favorite that's all about those irresistibly crunchy bites. Probably, for the ultimate experience, Bahia, the dish’s place of origin, is your best bet. However, Fortaleza serves up tempting options that definitely deserve a try, too. Brought to Brazil from Africa centuries ago, it carried a profound spiritual link with the homeland of slaves. Moreover, these yummy fritters are still used as sacred offerings in Candomblé, Afro-Brazilian religion.

Infused with a medley of cultural and culinary influences, acarajé boasts mashed black-eyed peas shaped into delightful balls, then deep-fried to golden perfection in dendê oil. While it could already sound good, the magic doesn't stop there – the morsels are split in half and stuffed with spicy and creamy pastes featuring ingredients like ground peanuts, cashews, onions, dried shrimp, and coconut milk, that together create a completely sinful tale for those watching their diets. But rest assured, this is the kind of indulgence that is undoubtedly worth those calories.

Nestled just a couple of blocks from the beach, Cozinha do Acarajé is a modest yet inviting hidden gem. This eatery is a haven for those seeking authentic, delicious, and notably vegan acarajé. It pays homage to this iconic dish, meticulously prepared in quality palm oil. The magic lies in the right proportions and serving, a testament appreciated by connoisseurs and a delightful introduction for first-timers to acarajé standard. You should absolutely try the traditional version, adorned with caruru, vatapá, salad, shrimps, and pepper.

They also offer chicken or carne-de-sol fillings, as well as sets allowing you to explore different combinations. Keep in mind that even a single portion is already quite satisfying. However, if your appetite craves more, the menu extends to include other delectable treats like another Brazilian favorite snack – abará, homemade moqueca, beans in a pot, cod, skewers, filet mignon wrapped in slices of bacon, and shrimps with rice.

Brigadeiro. Photo by Meggy Kadam Aryanto from Pexels, cropped

We wouldn’t leave you without a taste of sweet pleasures, of course! Brigadeiro, the heart-stealer for dessert lovers in Brazil, is likely to cast its irresistible spell on you. While often compared to truffles, this treat is in a league of its own – velvety soft, slightly chewy, creamy, and utterly indulgent. Crafted from a blend of condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter, these little delights are then lovingly coated in a generous layer of chocolate sprinkles. But here's where creativity takes the spotlight. Brigadeiros have evolved into a playground of imagination, with gourmet variations introducing ingredients like peanuts, guava, mint, coffee, strawberries, cheese, pistachios, and beyond. They are a cherished national icon, adding magic to any celebration that screams joy and good times.

Incidentally, the treat comes with an interesting backstory. The legend traces back to Brazil's 1946 presidential elections, when the creative wife of Air Force brigadier Eduardo Gomes made batches of these candies to sweeten his fundraisers. While Gomes might not have secured his spot in the political arena, he certainly carved his place in history through this decadent dessert – not a bad outcome at all, right?

Tortelê is not just a place to savor brigadeiro; it's an ideal haven to break free from the ordinary, infusing a dash of magic and the excitement of a child into your culinary experience. Born from a family dream, this establishment blends professional dedication with an abundance of love. It takes pride in crafting desserts that celebrate every moment, relying on cherished recipes to deliver authenticity and exquisite presentations. The team of Tortelê aims to cultivate a homey atmosphere, where the air is filled with the anticipation of indulging in the finest cakes and the most comforting teas. 

The café offers a plethora of options, ranging from the classic elegance of red velvet cake to the playful charm of brigadeiro and the sumptuous richness of guava cheesecake. But that's not all – if you're in for a quick lunch bite, they have you covered with savory delights like quiche, coxinhas, chicken pies, and more. Enjoy your bites in a comfortably air-conditioned space, surrounded by vibrant real flowers gracing every table.

As you soak in the beachy vibes of the sunshine city, we hope this guide adds a flavorful touch to your journey. If you've already savored any of these dishes, we'd love to hear about your experiences. Feel free to share your impressions and recommendations in the comments below.