served cold on every corner, the characteristically dark purple delicacy to have in sunny rio de janeiro, is the popular acai - juices and smoothies of this berry are consumed as snacks, supplements, energy drinks, and meal replacements.

pure or with the addition of granola, strawberries, bananas, or other fruits, açaí smoothies are a definite must-try while in rio.

açaí, or euterpe oleracea, is a native species of the amazon and can be found in venezuela, colombia, ecuador, guyana and north and northeastern brazil - in the amazonian states of amapá, pará, and maranhão.