Minas Gerais Restaurants

Probably the most popular cuisine in the country, Mineiran food is a mixure of Portuguese, Indian, and African flavors. Famous foods include lombo de porco (pork loin) often served with sausage on the side, and for dessert, goiabada (guava paste). Pão de queijo, chewy cheese bread in roll form, is the culinary hallmark of the state—mineiro bakeries get the consistency just right. The cachaça (sugarcane rum) from the northern region of Salinas is considered the best in the country. Mineiros tend to eat dinner after 8. Many restaurants close on Monday. Reservations may be required, especially on weekends.