4 Best Restaurants in Ilha Grande, Side Trips from Rio

Jardin

$$ | Abraão
When you finally tire of eating grilled fish and rich moqueca stews, head to this contemporary dinner-only spot that specializes in fresh salads and vegetarian options crafted from locally sourced ingredients, alongside the more innovative daily fish dishes and hamburgers. The cozy, home-like setting—just three tables set on a veranda that's a 15-minute walk into the forest from Praia da Júlia—gives diners the chance to connect with Ilha Grande's natural beauty; a guided walk along the trails each way is included in dinner.
Vegetarian Dinner $$ Family
Caminho de Palmas, Casa 3, Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro, 23968-000, Brazil
24-99914--7738
Known For
  • the jungle-like setting it apart from Ilha Grande's other dining options
  • sweet potato fries
  • generous salads
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: No lunch

Lua e Mar

$$ | Abraão

Expect fresh, well-prepared seafood and weekly live music during high season at this longtime favorite, which is often cited as the best restaurant in the village of Abraão. Stroll straight from the beach still wearing your Havaianas to try Dona Cidinha's specialty, fish with half-ripe bananas, or the famous moqueca , which many islanders claim is the best in Rio de Janeiro State.

Seafood Casual Lunch Dinner $$
Praia do Canto, Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro, 23968-000, Brazil
24-3361–5113
Known For
  • beachfront location
  • baked fish with banana
  • generous portion
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Closed Wed., Credit cards accepted

O Pescador

$$ | Abraão

Inside the pousada of the same name, this restaurant serves local seafood prepared using Italian cooking techniques. After dark, you can dine alfresco on the beach by candlelight, or just pop in for a cocktail and nibbles from the bar.

Seafood Lunch Dinner $$
Rua da Praia 647, Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro, 23968–000, Brazil
24-3361–5114
Known For
  • seafood risotto
  • fresh grilled fish (types vary according to season) bought directly from local fishermen
  • romantic atmosphere
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Credit cards accepted

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Pizza na Praça

$$ | Abraão

On the flagstones of Ilha Grande's main square, this simple restaurant serves up more than four dozen types of pies, from simple margheritas to exotic seafood combinations or dessert pies; salads and other dishes are available at lunchtime. This is a great spot for evening meals on Friday and Saturday nights, when live bands play in the square.

Pizza Lunch Dinner $$ Family
Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro, 23968–000, Brazil
24-3361–9566
Known For
  • great people watching
  • healthy pizza options
  • lively atmopshere on the weekends