ascariocas say, the food is 'comida feita com carinho', or ‘food made with care', where the hearty and delicious flavors seem to exude the warmth and attention that was invested in their creation - the food creates a closeness between the chef and the person eating, a connection which transcends social and linguistic divisions.

among the several gastronomic events in the greater rio de janeiro, these unique and edifying culinary establishments are celebrated and showcased by the circuito gastronômico sebrae na mesa em comunidades (sebrae gastronomic circuit at the table of communities), an annual festival which brings together classic dishes from favelas across the city.

sitting in a favela, atop a restaurant patio, visitors are able to immerse themselves in day to day favela culture, watching residents go about their daily lives, and even offering them the opportunity to talk to locals and connect with them in a meaningful way.