bar da dona maria was established in 1950 and is known for its warm, friendly owner, maria do rosário - the elderly lady used to sit behind the bar all day welcoming guests and locals but these days her hours have been honed down slightly, however, she can still be seen working the cashier on occasion throughout the week.

many aged cariocas frequent the bar in the neighborhood of tijuca and over the years it has become known for its samba circles - famous names such as beth carvalho, noca da portela, anja blanc, and nelson sargento used to pass by.

situated in an old manor house dating back to the 1930s, the bar maintains all its former glory with a huge old refrigerator, the thick marble counter, and bookcases bursting with memorabilia and curious objects - there is a great deal of soul in the joint.