Vegan and vegetarian restaurants: our 3 favorites in the city center
What are the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in downtown São Paulo? Citas made the selection!
Some people say that veganism is a kind of fad. And the person who says this is usually that uncle or aunt who throws a family barbecue and buys kilos and kilos of meat. But, in reality, veganism is an ancient and very important way of eating, as it can reverse the planet's climate conditions.
I've already told you about 3 little markets and shops where you can go for a stroll and have a perfect Sunday in São Paulo. Besides, every corner of SP has a story to tell. Today's text invites you to leave conservatism aside and take advantage of the pandemic to have a flavor adventure, after all, what we need most is to have experiences to share.
When I spoke about street markets, I emphasized the importance of recognizing that street markets are the legacy of black men and women, who in the past used the streets and markets as a place to trade, raise money, and buy the freedom of enslaved people. Veganism also has its political and ancestral value! Some African countries, such as Congo, have only vegetables and greens as their staple food, creating an irresistible range of flavors. Furthermore, veganism helps reduce deforestation, since pasture for livestock farming is what most destroys Brazilian forests. Therefore, reducing meat consumption and eating more organic foods can radically change the planet's climate situation.
Oh, and you can find many recommendations for vegan and vegetarian restaurants both in downtown São Paulo and in the outlying areas at Prato Firmeza. Prato Firmeza - Gastronomic Guide to the Slums of São Paulo, is a project by Énois Laboratório de Jornalismo , which brings together a series of important black restaurants and entrepreneurs in gastronomy. The coolest thing is that last week, Prato Firmeza held a Festival, and one of the debates was about veganism ! But now, let's see which vegan and vegetarian restaurants were chosen by Citas.
Vhmor - St. Louis Avenue
São Luis Avenue, No. 187, 1st Floor, Store 23/24 - Republic - Republic Subway
What if you were to have lunch and take the opportunity to pamper yourself and see art? This is the proposal of Espaço Vhmor, a place that offers a complete experience, involving well-being, gastronomy and art.
The idea for the space came from talking to artists and providing a moment of integration and unique experience. As artists and cultural figures, the creators understand that human beings are whole and need to be stimulated in different ways. Before, Vhmor was only virtual, but in 2019 the need arose for a physical space.
I've never been, but just seeing what there is to enjoy made me want to go! I highly recommend it, and if you want to tell me about your visit to Espaço Vhmor, write to me at: omiobinrin@gmail.com
Apfel - Republic subway
- Dom José de Barros, 99 - Historic Center of São Paulo - Republic Subway
The Apfel Vegetarian Restaurant was a delight to visit. Located in a historic building in São Paulo, it is run by an elderly man who is connected to 220v. The atmosphere is cozy and somewhat reminiscent of lunches at Grandma's house. The owner is Carlinhos, a friendly and very attentive cook.
With wide tables and wooden benches, it feels like you're in a place outside of São Paulo. When my partner, Jéssica, and I arrived, we were taken aback by the way things were done. We usually expect quick and impersonal service, without any kind of interaction. But at Apfel, things don't happen like that! The service is eye-to-eye, and the food is delicious. The dishes are very complete, with a variety of what is served.
Rap Burger - Augusta
- Augusta, 552 - Bela Vista, Sao Paulo - Higienopolis Mackenzie Subway
It is a fact that hip-hop culture is full of originality, authorship and a lot of identity. Having its boom in the 60s, hip-hop still influences the world of music, fashion and behavior today. Its roots are black, in African rhythms, mixing social awareness with ostentation, affection and lots, but lots, of joy.
Brazilian rap is one of the musical genres responsible for the growth of pop, funk and the expression of many artists. In São Paulo, the largest rap group was Racionais MC's , founded and led by Mano Brown, the group was responsible for creating a national reference in music and in the way of making art.
And imagine eating a burger inspired by music? Well, that's right! Rap Burguer , a black-owned business in downtown São Paulo, has just that idea. The sandwiches and combos are named after Brazilian rap stars, such as Sabotage, Mano Brown, Djonga, Mc Soffia and Rincon Sapiência. In addition to being a place with good food, Rap Burguer is a place for events and gatherings of black culture.
