It’s food with a conscience at Apfel, whose philosophy goes beyond just vegetarianism: the restaurant’s cultural agenda includes hosting evening walks around the Centro as well as funding small theatre groups. Set in a delightful ivy-covered townhouse in Jardins, with a second location downtown (Rua Dom José de Barros 99, Centro, 3256 7909, open for lunch only), Apfel’s service is efficient and its friendly and the seasonally-changing menu spot on, featuring delights such as garlic mushrooms on wholemeal toast, and cauliflower gratin. But take it from us: when the nhoque de mandioquinha recheado com queijo de cabra (sweet parsnip gnocchi with goat’s cheese filling) is on the menu, you’d be a fool to resist.