Incongruous with the gleaming towers of finance that flank busy Avenida Brigadeiro Faria Lima, Octavio Café is a vast, curvaceous, timber-clad temple to the bean. The location, speedy service, comfy seats and acres of space make this a sought-after spot for a business meeting or to settle in for an afternoon’s remote working.

Coffees are prepared with beans from the Alta Mogiana region of inland São Paulo state. Try them in a simple espresso or one of the more inventive espressos like the romano, served with a twist of lime peel. On sunny days, opt for an iced coffee outside on the terrace. To eat, there’s a full lunch menu, or simply team your coffee with sugar-coated rabanada – French toast (R$13.80). 

• Read about coffee brewing methods at Octávio Café and around town