Zaza Bistro || Rio de Janeiro
Zaza Bistro is located in Ipanema, and serves nouveau "Western" style tapas and dishes in an intimate & romantic setting. The patio is intimate and has plants surrounding the patio and has comfy chairs. The inside resembles a home, and there are 2 levels. The mood is dark & intimate. We were there early around 5pm as we did not make resos - at that time they didnt serve dinner but had a snack menu. We were ok with this- turns out the snack menu is pretty much the same as the dinner menu but with fewer items and smaller portions. We don't mind! They also mention that the ingredients are sourced locally/regionally.
The space was dark so the pics don’t do justice! However, order the - couvert (a sampler) .. their housemade chips and crackers are amazing, as well as their dips that included in this dish was great loved the wasabi mousse dip
- we ordered the Tasting Warm Entrees.. which included appetizer size portions of: a) tapiocas (Brazilian white pastry), b) samomas (great and flavourful), and c) Moroccan Pastillas (organic chicken dim-sum with masala, Brazilian nuts, and sweet pepper served with fresh mint yogurt) ..all were great and was different taste than each other. it was a good variety as well, good for those who want to try as many dishes as possible and ensure that you can actually finish the food as well! :)
- we also ordered the lamb spheres which had a hint of game taste but wasn't strong. texture was juicy and tender. the tamarind sauce complements the lamb well
drinks were good - caiparinhas were delish (as with any other Brazilian local joints)
Website: http://www.zazabistro.com.br/zazabistrotropical Location: Ipanema Food: Western, New Brazilian, tapas Ambience: Intimate, Romantic, Upscale casual, Chill, Patio Price: $$ Nom Noms: 4.1 nom noms out of 5