Last updated on December 20, 2023.

The city center of Rio de Janeiro is home to some much-loved historic cafés that are worth popping into. They serve as meeting places for friends, places for business deals, somewhere to grab a quick bite, or to pass the time away chatting.

 

Confeitaria Colombo

Founded in 1894 by Portuguese immigrants Joaquim Borges de Meireles and Manuel José Lebrão, Confeitaria Colombo was the one mentioned most often to me. It’s located just off Largo da Carioca.

Confeitaria Colombo in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Confeitaria Colombo
Confeitaria Colombo in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Confeitaria Colombo

The founders spared no expense in decorations and it’s often mentioned as one of the most beautiful cafés in the world. The mirrors were shipped from Antwerp, Belgium, and the counters are Italian marble. In 1922, the café was expanded to include a tea room on the second floor and a stained glass skylight which is visible from the ground floor.

Confeitaria Colombo in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Confeitaria Colombo
Confeitaria Colombo in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Stained glass skylight

The architecture isn’t the only great thing about it. The food and desserts are delicious and reasonably priced. It’s just as advertised. Another branch, opened in 2003, is located at Fort Copacabana on Copacabana Beach.

Salgados at Confeitaria Colombo in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Salgados at Confeitaria Colombo

 

Casa Cavé

Another famous café is Casa Cavé. It was founded on March 5, 1860, by French immigrant Charles Auguste Cavé, who led the business until 1922. It’s the oldest bakery in Rio de Janeiro and is located around the corner from Confeitaria Colombo. I didn’t have time to visit, although it’s said that the interior of this café is also beautiful. Inside are French chandeliers and stained glass windows, and the tables and chairs were made by a Spaniard who lived in Brazil.

Casa Cavé in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Casa Cavé
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Owner of Paisadventure. World traveler. Chicago sports lover. Living in Colombia.

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