Advertisement

Vegetarian Restaurants in Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo isn’t just meat and churrasco, though that’s what many expect. The city has some seriously good vegetarian spots if you know where to look. I’ve lived here years and trust me, you won’t survive on just bread and cheese. Try places like Banana Verde in Pinheiros, where their veggie moqueca is fantastic, or Apfel in Jardins for a casual vibe and fresh juices that hit the spot.

Don’t overlook the city’s street markets, like the one at Praça Benedito Calixto on Saturdays. Several small vegan and vegetarian vendors pop up, offering everything from tapioca with coconut to hearty salads. And hey, don’t be shy about asking for cash – a lot of these local joints don’t take cards.

My tip? Go during lunch when many spots offer “prato feito” vegetarian options for a solid price. And if you’re near Vila Madalena, poke around Rua Aspicuelta late afternoon,some hidden vegetarian cafes with killer homemade cakes hang out there. Sao Paulo’s veggie scene is colorful, fresh, and sometimes surprising, so take your time exploring.
Part of the My Guide Network Since 2006 180+ destinations
Search by Map

Vegetarian eats you’ll actually enjoy

If you love seasonal veggies and fresh ingredients, you’ll feel right at home here. Sao Paulo’s vegetarian scene is shaped by Brazil’s fantastic produce markets. Try to visit the CEAGESP market early morning if you can,it’s mostly wholesale but some vendors sell bags of fresh organic greens. Prepping meals with local ingredients is hugely popular and many restaurants source from these markets daily.

For a local favorite, head to Homa in Vila Madalena, known for its cozy atmosphere and flavorful dishes made with lots of herbs and local produce. They do a great pumpkin risotto that’ll warm you up on a cooler São Paulo evening. Just don’t expect the mass-market ‘vegetarian’ tags; here, it’s about good food made thoughtfully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions on vegetarian eats in Sao Paulo? Here are some answers you’ll actually want.

They’re definitely more common in neighborhoods like Pinheiros and Jardins. But a lot of regular restaurants also have good vegetarian options so don’t worry if you’re not in those areas.

Absolutely. Markets like Benedito Calixto or Feira da Liberdade often have stalls serving fresh vegan snacks. Just watch out for hidden ingredients like cheese or eggs, and don’t hesitate to ask.

Yes! Some places do vegetarian takes on classics like feijoada or moqueca. Banana Verde is one spot I’d recommend if you want to try that.

For sure. Look for lunch combos, especially midweek. Many small restaurants offer vegetarian 'prato feito',a filling dish with rice, beans, salad and a veggie protein,for a good price.

Some do, but it’s not universal. Larger spots tend to have gluten-free options, but smaller cafes might not. Best to check the menu or ask when you arrive.

Explore Restaurants Categories

Brazilian (70 places) Finding good Brazilian food in Sao Paulo isn’t hard, but knowing where to go can make all the difference. Some places keep it simple and homey, like Casa do Porco in Centro which is famous for its pork dishes, or Bar da Dona Onça in Sé, where the pastéis and feijoada feel just right after a long day. If you’re… Explore
Italian (59 places) If you’re heading to Sao Paulo and Italian food is on your radar, you’re in luck. The city is packed with places where grandma’s recipes still rule. Forget your typical tourist spots,some of the best joints are tucked away in neighborhoods like Bixiga, home to decades-old trattorias that serve hearty lasagnas and… Explore
Seafood (57 places) If you’re craving seafood in Sao Paulo, you’re in for a treat, but maybe not the one you expect. Sure, the city’s not on the coast, but thanks to efficient fish markets and a love for fresh ingredients, places like Mercado Municipal and Vila Zelina make it feel like you’re dining right by the sea. Try a moqueca with a… Explore
Japanese (39 places) Sao Paulo is a surprising place for Japanese cuisine , not just because it has the biggest Japanese community outside Japan, but because the food here is seriously good. You’ll find everything from casual ramen joints tucked into the Liberdade neighborhood to sleek sushi bars in Jardins where chefs slice fish with… Explore
Pub (24 places) Sao Paulo’s pub scene is surprisingly diverse. You won’t just find the usual bars serving beer , some spots feel like your neighborhood hangout in London or Dublin, with dark wood, dartboards, and local bands playing. Head over to neighborhoods like Vila Madalena or Pinheiros if you want that laid-back atmosphere… Explore
Buffet (23 places) Explore
French (21) • Sushi (21) • Chinese (18) • Korean (18) •

Trusted local guides, read by millions every month

  • 2006 online since
  • 26.2M page views a month across the network
  • 14 languages

180+ destination guides, one network

Every guide covers a single destination on its own website, with events, restaurants, things to do and places to stay chosen from local recommendations.

My Guide Network Locations

Nearby Destinations

Also nearby: My Guide ColombiaMy Guide Trinidad and TobagoMy Guide Barbados

See all destinations

Add to your trip
Day {[{day.day}]} {[{day.dateFormat}]}
MorningAfternoonEvening

Add your travel dates so we can place this on the right day, or save it for later.

Add to day {[{trip.popover.day}]}Add to trip Cancel
Added to your trip Added to day {[{trip.toast.day}]}, MorningAfternoonEvening Saved to your trip Already in your trip Transfer saved to your trip Save your trip to get fresh suggestions Staying in {[{trip.toast.label}]} Base cleared Trip deleted Link copied Could not save your trip Something went wrong, please try again