Without a doubt my favorite mall in Rio de Janeiro. That said, I think it's important to set your…read moreexpectations right before coming. As one of the other Yelpers wrote, this is not your typical mall where you come to shop and maybe grab a bite to eat along the way. It's as though shopping is the sideshow here, with plays, movies, a gym, and great restaurants being the main attraction.
There are plenty of stores, but for the most part they aren't chains. The stores also don't focus on clothes. Instead, you're likely to find something unique for your house, maybe a gift for a friend, or something completely unexpected. The most unique attractions for me are the theaters and restaurants. Every floor has at least one live-action theater, both for adults and kids. It's common to see costumed princesses or pirates walking around and taking pictures with kids. I haven't personally seen a play there yet, but I have heard good things from friends. The movie theater is unique too. Smaller than the typical theater, it offers more of a feeling of community for those watching the film together. We also saw an advertisement that they will be showing old-time movies with live piano accompaniment in the near future.
The restaurants are all top notch. Lunch, supper, ice cream, coffee, chocolate, whatever it is you are looking for, they have a place in Shopping da Gávea that will meet or exceed your expectation.
Definitely give this place a visit, just don't expect anything like you've seen before in a mall.