With its pleasant veranda in the heart of Ipanema, Zazá manages to be cosy both inside and out, its eclectic charms providing an exotic assault on the senses. It's not just the setting that makes you feel at home, though. Upstairs you can kick off your shoes and unwind with a cocktail on one of the plush, deep-red and oversized cushions, the low lighting will either get you feeling dozy or amorous depending on your state of mind.

'Bistrô Tropicale' is a good description of the menu too; the picanha steak is served with cous-cous and a decent curry sauce while the fish (from the yam-accompanied Namorado to the beetroot-sided tuna steak) and salads are light and fruity. Outside is an excellent place for a post-beach cocktail, too, thanks to signature creations like the Monkey Monkey (Absolut vanilla, coconut water, banana and ginger, R$23) and Spiceberry Margherita (tequila, chilli, Cointreau and cranberry juice, R$23).

Namorado with Summer vegetables and lychee in a coconut sauce