Don Pascual has undeniable charm. Amid lush scenery you'll dine on open-sided wooden decks, listening to birdsong. Not surprisingly, by night it's all couples at the candlelit tables. The food is good – juicy picanha (beef rump), moquequinha de frutas do mar (seafood and coconut stew) and ravioli de cordeiro (lamb ravioli) – but not quite as dazzling as the ambience.
The only problem is that it's hard to get to; call ahead for specific directions. You can also spend the night, while day use (including access to pool, sauna and Jacuzzi) costs R$196, generally available Monday to Thursday only.