rio de janeiro has been the de-facto cultural capital of brazil for centuries - home to the royal family during the imperial years, capital of the nation until 1960, always important commercial hub, and cradle of music and the arts.

nobles, politicians, artists, traders, and common people form all corners of the world have been coming to rio for centuries, each contributing to the city's gastronomic diversity. in fact, rio's rich heritage is reflected in the numerous culinary styles and the assortment of restaurants that dot her streets.