The Ultimate Guide to Pinheiros (São Paulo)

Pinheiros is the neighborhood with cool bars, hip restaurants and best coffee in São Paulo. Keep reading to plan your ultimate itinerary when visiting Pinheiros!

Lunch at Bar do Biu

Bar do Biu is unassuming. The restaurant looks like any other watering holes in the city with locals catching up on recent events over a glass of ice cold beer. The only clue that you’re there is the signage on the door mat, which I missed as I walked towards the bar area and past the freezer with popsicles. At that moment I think I knew deep down that I was going to have one of the best meals of this trip. If in fact this was the legendary local institution I had read about. I was not wrong – the Oxtail dish (served with rice, beans, farofa and salad) was the best meal I had in São Paulo. 

Look Smart at Oriba

Oriba does smart casual and weekend casual really well. The world doesn’t need another clothing brand, and you probably don’t need another t-shirt. But if you do decide to make that purchase, know that Oriba uses sustainable materials and employs ethical manufacturing. On top of that they donate 1% to support education. I can stand behind that. The store also has a legit coffee bar that serves complementary espresso drinks. 

Galeria Raquel Arnaud

Galeria Raquel Arnaud was established in 1972 and continues to showcase works in the area of geometric abstraction. Visiting contemporary art galleries is my favorite way to get to know a city!

Coffee Break at King of the Fork

If you love to cycle, chances are you also love coffee. King of the Fork argues why the two are a match made in heaven. Grab a seat at one of their outdoor patios and enjoy a fantastic brew. In case you are inspired to start cycling, there’s a cute shop towards the back where you can make an impulse purchase for your newly discovered hobby. 

Dinner at Tan Tan

Tan Tan is a favorite among fashionable Paulistas that love its ramen and contemporary appetizers served in a trendy setting. The restaurant has seats at the bar which is perfect for solo travelers like myself. I didn’t have a reservation on a Friday night and there was wait time but I was able to order a cocktail while I waited outside. 

Instituto Tomie Ohtake

Instituto Tomie Ohtake opened in 2001 and houses 11 exhibition rooms that showcase Brazilian and international art. Past exhibitions have showcased works by Louise Bourgeois, Josef Albers and Salvador Dali to name a few. Similar to other cultural spaces in São Paulo entrance is free. There was hardly anyone else inside the exhibition halls and I was able to enjoy some incredible art in peace and quiet. I highly recommend that you at least swing by if you’re in the area – I think it’s incredibly underrated!