When one thinks of Rio de Janeiro, the mind often goes straight to Ipanema or Copacabana. But tucked gracefully between the birthplace of “Garota de Ipanema” and the picturesque peaks of Dois Irmãos lies Leblon, a beachfront beauty that exudes serenity and sophistication.
Though it’s often mentioned alongside Rio’s most iconic neighborhoods, Leblon hasn’t been combed over by tourists in quite the same way, perhaps thanks to its reputation as one of Brazil’s (and some say South America’s) most expensive enclaves.
– Featured image credit: JANEIRO –
We spent a month living in Leblon, and during that time, we soaked up its easy rhythm and quiet glamour. With fewer crowds and thoughtfully planned streets, the neighborhood feels polished yet personal. The beach is just steps away, as are many of Rio’s must-see spots. And when it comes to eating well, Leblon delivers. The area is brimming with good restaurants, cozy cafés, and lively bars that make it all the more tempting.
Despite its reputation for luxury, we found that Leblon carries an easygoing spirit – unpretentious, welcoming, and refreshingly calm. It invites you to slow down, breathe in the ocean breeze, and simply enjoy the quiet magic of beachfront living in Rio. Below is a #RadarList of our favorite places to eat, drink, and shop in Leblon.
Rise & Dine
Cariocas don’t just do breakfast, they turn it into a crave-worthy ritual. From buttery pastries to cheesy bites, the city’s bakery game is strong. One of our go-to spots in Leblon is Confeitaria Rio Lisboa. This neighborhood favorite opens early and keeps the oven warm well into the night, serving up comforting Brazilian baked classics. We love the simple yet satisfying mortadella sandwich, coxinha, pão de queijo, and cakes. Grab a seat at the counter for prime people-watching, or opt for an outdoor table for a breezy, street-side experience. It’s also part mini-market, perfect for picking up pantry staples.
Beyond this local icon, Leblon’s bakery scene is full of gems. Talho Capixaba (Leblon branch) is one of them thanks to its array of Brazilian pastries and hearty breakfast sets.
Meanwhile, Nema caters to sourdough lovers with a tempting selection of naturally leavened goods. And if brunch is more your style, head to SO_Lo, where smoothie bowls, open-faced toasts, and other beloved brunch dishes are served all day in a stylish yet laid-back setting.
Whether you’re a sweet tooth, a sandwich devotee, or a slow-brunch kind of soul, Leblon has your mornings beautifully covered.
The Sip List
For a sweet little pause in the day, we often found ourselves drifting toward AQUIM, partly for an afternoon caffeine fix, mostly for the chocolate. Housed in a space that feels like a whimsical nod to Peter Rabbit, it’s elegant yet delightfully comforting. Their bean-to-bar creations are a chocoholic’s dream, and we especially loved the deep, dark Americanos served with a curated flight of chocolate nibbles in all sorts of rich, surprising flavors.
When the mood called for a more laid-back, seaside vibe, Boho Leblon was our go-to. Situated right by Leblon Beach, it’s perfect for sipping fresh água de coco or a strong espresso while watching beach life unfold with the Dois Irmãos peaks in the background. Come golden hour, it becomes one of the most relaxed spots for a sundowner far from the buzz of Ipanema, yet still full of life with locals out enjoying the sunset.
Another spot we found ourselves returning to is Livraria Argumento, a charming neighborhood bookstore that doubles as a cozy coffee escape. Up front, it’s all about feeding your curiosity with literary finds. But stroll toward the back and you’ll stumble upon Café Severino, where the scent of freshly brewed coffee, cakes, and savory dishes greets you like an old friend. Whether you’re in the mood for a mellow espresso moment or something heartier and more substantial, this nook is our favorite retreat from the beach routine.
Midday & Evening Feast
For lunch and dinner, there are a few spots we loved during our trip. Bella Blu is one of them, a casual self-service gem where you pay by the kilo (comida a quilo). The buffet offers a generous spread, from classic Brazilian comfort food to Italian and Japanese favorites, making it a dream for those who love tasting a bit of everything in one go. And for the carb-and-cheese connoisseurs, there’s also a wood-fired pizza menu that never disappoints.
If you’re looking to taste Brazil beyond the postcards, Filé do Lira is a solid start. This spot serves up hearty plates that cater to every craving, whether you’re in the mood for seafood, steak, or something plant-based. But what really won us over was the warm, attentive service that turned every meal into a moment.
Just a few blocks away, Rainha is where things heat up. Equal parts restaurant and bar, it hums with colonial charm and the irresistible aroma of sizzling bar bites. Come for the cocktails, stay for the atmosphere, this is where locals and visitors rub shoulders over drinks, stories, and late-night laughter. Swing by early for a more relaxed vibe, or show up later when the energy peaks and the crowds gather.
Where to Check In
When it comes to finding your perfect stay in Leblon, there’s no shortage of stylish Airbnbs tucked into the neighborhood’s leafy streets, but for those who want their toes a little closer to the sand, JANEIRO offers something truly special.
This beachfront boutique hotel delivers sweeping views of the Cagarras Islands and the majestic Dois Irmãos peak. With just 51 rooms, it feels intimate yet effortlessly cool. Drawn by the hotel’s chic charm, the ease of Rio’s beach culture, and the comfort of thoughtful hospitality, it’s no wonder global influencers and superstars are often spotted here. You’re also just a short stroll from Ipanema, Vidigal, and the cliffside lookout at Mirante do Leblon where golden sands stretch along the coast from Leblon to Arpoador.