BEYOND TRACK LIMITS
THE CRAZY NIGHT OUT...
Significant migration between Brazil and Japan (yes really) means that Sao Paulo is a consistently good place to get sushi. But for a night out where the food is only part of the fun, try Chopperia Liberdade, which is open late, sells all manner of food from churrasco to sushi, and is one of the oddest karaoke bars I've ever been to. Think high times, not high class.
THE SEAFOOD GEM...
Fans of seafood can eat well throughout Brazil, despite the country's meat-heavy cuisine, but in Sao Paulo one of my favourites is Adega Santiago, which does magical things with cod. They boast an extensive wine list, and offer the usual jamons and tapas-style dishes you'd expect from Iberia. It's a nice place to sit outside, but if you do, beware the mosquitoes -- they can be brutal.
THE PAULISTA PIZZA...
While pizza is a global dish not really worthy of a mention outside of those cities dedicated to its excellence, the Sao Paulo take on the dish should really be tried at least once if you're a true pizza connoisseur. Topping heavy and with a medium-thick base, in Sao Paulo pizzas are presented under cloches before a version of silver service happens. Try it at Leona Pizza Bar, in Campo Belo.
Around Sao Paulo
BRAZILIAN GRAND PRIX
Sao Paulo is a sprawling and chaotic city, with traffic that has to be experienced to be truly believed. Add to that the city's dangerous reputation and Sao Paulo can be a hard sell. But a buzzing food scene, Brazilian warmth, and the opportunity to explore further afield make it a can't-miss destination.