The uniquely well-hidden Gourmet Tropical restaurant sits in the middle of a veritable forest of tropical plants, bonsai trees and flowers offering a genuine refuge from the heat of the city and the well-trodden Zona Sul path, tucked away behind the near side of Barra in Itahangá, a place more famous for its golf course than cuisine.

Set in a huge plant nursery and with enough room for seventy diners, the atmosphere is authentic yet surprisingly refined. Rustic furniture inspired by their surroundings and made from reclaimed wood adds to the sense of the unusual (including a roof made from natural plant fibres), while Brazilian handicrafts (also available to buy) decorate most of the available space.

The food is international but with a bent towards Italian and Portuguese, with the risotto al nero di seppia and Manuel's Bacalhau particularly worthy of investigation. Over two hundred wines mean that you won't struggle to find the perfect drop to accompany your food, all of which are made available for sale from the deli and bakery shop.

Also open for breakfast and afternoon tea, Gourmet Tropical will fit the bill perfectly for a little pre-beach brunch.