Run by a trio of Frenchmen, Canastra has become one of the top nightlife destinations in Ipanema. Most nights, the crowd spills out onto the streets, and plenty of socializing cariocas never even make it inside. This, however, would be a mistake, as the food (cheese and charcuterie plates, grilled squid and octopus) and drinks (Brazilian wines, sangria, creative caipirinhas) are outstanding.
There's also a hidden bar downstairs – an artfully decorated speakeasy where you can escape the chattering crowds. The big night is Tuesday, when fresh oysters from Santa Catarina arrive (a fine deal at R$40 a dozen).
