A Figueira Rubaiyat

NileGuide Expert tip:

Watch out for the couvert! It's not free.

Description:

• Both for its farm-to-fork fare and the 130-year-old fig tree around which its interior is decorated, A Figueira Rubaiyat is recognized as one of São Paulo's premier restaurants (if not the best). 

  The establishment in Jardins has become famous for its beef, all of which is shipped fresh from the owner's private ranch, as well as for a mélange of seafood that includes an extravagant oyster bar. Figueira also serves Brazilian traditions from frango caipira (country-style chicken) to feijoada (pork and black bean stew). House creations include pargo assado (roasted red porgy fish), polvo aplastado (unfurled octopus), caixote marinho (octopus, shrimp, squid, scallops and fish) and nhoque de batata com ossobuco e a bisteca de vitela (potato ñoqui with ossobuco and veal steak).

  The couvert, a tradition passed down from Iberia, is award-winning but has been known to deceive unwitting tourists. Waiters automatically bring the plate of Mediterranean delicacies, from boiled salmon to grilled eggplant, to diners' tables but only charge for what is consumed.   
  

  The wine cellar, named by Wine Spectator magazine as one of Brazil's best from 2005-2009, boasts more than 7,000 bottles from around 950 labels.

  Save room for dessert too, as the menu of 25-plus sweets is offered either buffet-style or a la carte.
• © NileGuide2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010