Fish fresh from the ocean, familiar environment, friendly staff, generous portions and great food!…read moreThis place is a must go!

I loved this place so much I came back a second time before I had to leave Niteroi. The food is…read moreamazing. And so is the service.... and the view at sunset. I drew a picture of a fish because I speak no Portuguese and was rewarded with a whole fish expertly grilled over a wood and coal fire. The fish was filleted by the waiter and served with rice and local sauces flavored with an olive oil that I can not remember having the pleasure to taste in the U.S. A simple meal on many levels, but fresh and expertly cooked without unnecessary embellishment. I dined overlooking a dirt road and a river, while watching the sun set and distant lights flicker on....as the herons flew in to roost for the night. Lovely. Perfect. .....and I should add in the off season (July 2014 days after the World Cup ended) I dined here alone.....The only patron in the restaurant. What a gift I stumbled upon, but the food, location and experience is so wonderful...others must experience it. If you are staying on the Rio de Janeiro side and if you are a true foodie and don't mind having to spend some time getting the experience and the food you want it is worth taking a bus to the ferry and then getting a taxi to Chale Canoa and back. Worth every penny spent on the transportation.

This is the quaintest restaurant I've ever been to. Opened by Márcio Sabino (also hand built), you…read morefeel the passion poured into the structure and the food. beautiful views! The serving staff are also so friendly. Reservations must be made by calling (or by using their Facebook page). Restaurant is only open Saturday's and Sunday's. Featured in the New York Times and it definitely did not disappoint.

Brazil you have done redeemed yourself! Tonight the wife and I went to da Carmine for dinner to…read morecelebrate our two years together. I don't know why we decided on this place, but I'm glad we did. Brazil is not known for its pizza that is for certain, but da Carmine flipped my view around on pizza in this country. We ordered one pizza, each half had its own toppings; one was ham and the other gorgonzola and veggies. The pizza was delicious. The crust was crisp, tasty, and light; the ingredients were fresh. They actually know how to use their brick oven and it showed. The price is a little steep but it was well worth it. The only reason I am deducting a star is because they had a surcharge for a three piece band they had roaming around the restaurant. I didn't ask for the music, therefore I shouldn't have to pay for it. I recommend da Carmine for the pizza. I will have to return for the pasta and update this post.