Best Places to Eat in Salvador Brazil

Exploring the Flavors of Salvador, Brazil: A Culinary Journey through its Streets

Welcome to the vibrant city of Salvador, the capital of Bahia state in Brazil! Known for its rich history, Afro-Brazilian culture, and lively street life, Salvador is a gastronomic paradise that offers a unique blend of African, Portuguese, and indigenous cuisines. Here are some must-visit spots to indulge in the delicious street food that Salvador has to offer:

  1. Feira de São Joaquim: This bustling market is one of the oldest in Salvador and offers an array of local delicacies. Try the Moqueca Baiana, a traditional Bahian seafood stew made with coconut milk, dende oil (palm oil), onions, peppers, tomatoes, and fresh fish or shrimp. Another popular dish is Acarajé, deep-fried balls made from peeled black-eyed peas filled with shrimp, onion, garlic, pepper, and a spicy malagueta pepper sauce.

  2. Mercado Modelo: Located in Pelourinho, the historic center of Salvador, Mercado Modelo is a great place to find local street food vendors selling an assortment of Bahian dishes. Try the Vatapá, a thick paste made from shrimp, coconut milk, peanuts, and dende oil served with bread or rice, or the Carne de Sol sol, a traditional dish made from sun-dried beef cooked in palm oil, garlic, onions, and spices.

  3. Rua Direita: Also known as “the food street,” Rua Direita is lined with food vendors offering various Bahian dishes such as Bobó de Camarão, a creamy shrimp soup made from coconut milk, okra, and tapioca flour; and Pipoca de Coco, sweet popcorn coated in coconut. Don’t forget to wash it down with a refreshing cup of Agua de Coco (coconut water) or Caipirinha, Brazil’s national cocktail made from cachaça, lime, and sugar.

  4. Praia do Farol: Located in Itapagipe, this beach is the perfect spot to enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset. Grilled prawns, lobster, fish, and oysters are some of the delicacies you can find here. Wash it all down with a cold beer or a Caipirinha for an unforgettable dining experience.

  5. Rua do Trapiche: In the neighborhood of Vila Brasiliera, this street is known for its food trucks offering traditional Bahian dishes such as Coxinha, deep-fried dough filled with shredded chicken or manioc paste, and Pastel de Bacalhau, a fried pastry filled with codfish, onions, and spices.

Experience the rich flavors of Salvador by immersing yourself in its vibrant street food scene! From the bustling markets to the picturesque beaches, each bite offers a taste of Bahia’s unique culinary heritage. Bon appétit!