one of the most posh districts in zona sul is leblon, an upscale residential area, home to a  beach, high-end shops and restaurants - there are some unexpected hot spots that are quickly adding a new flavor to the leblon party scene.

a low key option is the bar bracarense, which should be on everyone's to-do list when visiting the area.

having been praised multiple times by both the prefeitura do rio and the ny times as the city's best bar, the delicious house recipes, such as the traditional bolinho de aipim with shrimp and catupiry, and spirited crowds contribute to an energetic atmosphere that channels the best of carioca culture.