In 2010 one of São Paulo's most famous bars gained a Rio sibling. Inspired by traditional French brasseries with mirror-heavy decor and black and white photography adorning the walls, Arpoador's version is very much in the model of the original, so as well as the good quality food (try the succulent fried squid for proof), Astor offers up some pretty sharp cocktails, including arguably the city's best Bloody Mary (R$18) and dangerously addictive margheritas (from R$23). Things can get incredibly busy at the weekends when the service tends to show the strains, but for a few local looseners before a trip upstairs to the Studio RJ club and live music venue, you can't beat it.