K M
Google
Recently had the chance to discover Boteco, and have been back there with friends and family on several occasions now — each experience better than the previous one. It’s best to reserve a table since it’s usually packed (not surprising at all). Please reserve your spot — you’ll thank yourself later.
Ambience and décor, music — warm, gorgeous, ideal for an intimate meal with your loved ones. The walls are adorned with an Amazonian vibe, with pictures depicting the beauty and culture of Brazil, perfectly paired with music ranging from bossa nova to upbeat, sophisticated rhythms that transport you straight to Rio on a golden evening. The lighting is soft, the energy inviting — romantic yet lively when you want it to be.
The hospitality is gentle, kind and genuinely warm. The team is eager to please, attentive without being intrusive, and quick to graciously work on anything if pointed out. There is a pleasant sincerity in the service — you can tell the place is managed with care, thought and pride.
Now, the food — truly wonderful. Authentic preparations, thoughtfully crafted and beautifully paired with wine, champagne, and unique wine- and soju-based cocktails. Just about everything is made in-house, and you can taste the difference in every bite.
The starters are a delight. Polenta fries, cassava and cheese croquettes — crisp on the outside, soft and indulgent inside — absolutely delicious. Pão de queijo is an all-time favourite (and gluten-free), warm, chewy and comforting. The homemade sausages carry an authentic depth of flavour. Prawns wrapped in bacon are indulgent and perfectly balanced. The seabass ceviche is incredibly fresh. The salads — burrata, hummus, quinoa — are generous yet delicate, layered with beautiful textures and vibrant flavours.
Moving on to the mains — the feijoada takes you home, served with an array of accompaniments that truly tantalise the taste buds. The smoky steaks — pork, beef, chicken — are excellent and cooked to perfection. The pork belly is melt-in-your-mouth good. There are various dishes with curry and homemade authentic sauces, accompanied by hot sauces and farofa meant to be enjoyed with the meats — creating a true meaty surprise, a party in your mouth. Every dish feels made with heart. Special. Thoughtful.
The burger is utterly scrumptious. The Brazilian bowls offer a great line-up of proteins and healthy carbs, bringing together bold, tantalising flavours in every bite.
And then, the cocktails — heavenly. Their açaí cocktails are original and absolutely yummy. The Shanghai Sunrise is a personal favourite, though honestly, they’re all fantastic. The wine list is well curated and pairs beautifully with the menu.
Desserts are a celebration in themselves — traditional quindim, pudim, Basque cheesecake, beijinhos, brigadeiros — each one indulgent yet refined, a sweet finale to a memorable meal.
The staff is attentive without being intrusive, and you can clearly see that the place is managed exceptionally well. The owners are friendly and genuinely eager for feedback, constantly striving to improve. The entire experience is beautifully approved and executed by Brazilian chef Fernando — a warm, jovial presence in the room. A great chef leading a passionate team, creating magic and dishing out gorgeous, soulful flavours. Ask him to know more about Brazil and get mesmerised by a culture unique like your own.
Boteco isn’t just a restaurant — it’s an experience. A slice of Brazil, served with heart.