6 Best Restaurants in Vila Madalena and Pinheiros, São Paulo

During and after the Saturday crafts and antiques fair in Praça Benedito Calixto, it may take an hour to get a table at this homey restaurant. Among the shareable, traditional mineiro (from Minas Gerais State) dishes are the mandioca com carne de sol (cassava with salted meat) appetizer and the tutu (pork loin with beans, pasta, cabbage, and rice) entrée. These are shared dishes, which serve 2 to 3 people.

Arguably the best Japanese restaurant in a town famous for them, Jun Sakamoto stands out for serving fish of the highest quality and for employing the most skillful of sushi chefs to slice them, with a Michelin Star. Waiters wearing futuristic earpieces will guide you through the omakase, a sushi chef--curated menu.

Humble-looking Degas owes its more than 50 years in existence to word of mouth among the residents of São Paulo's western neighborhoods. Its famed filet mignon Parmigiana has gained near-legendary status, attracting foodies from across the city.

This restaurant looks like something Spanish architect Gaudí might have designed had he spent his later years in the tropics, but the pizzas couldn't be more Italian and straightforward. Try a pie with mozzarella and toasted garlic.

Pé de Manga's name and charm come from the massive mango tree surrounded by tables on the shaded patio, where appetizers like mini acarajé and main dishes named after celebrities—think Mel Gibson and Will Smith—are served. A two-story covered seating area lends the whole affair a Robinson Crusoe touch.

The restaurant boasts a chic and minimalist decor with warm tones and sleek design, creating a sophisticated-yet-cozy dining atmosphere. The linguine alla carbonara is a standout dish, perfectly creamy and rich. Pair it with the Negroni Sbagliato, a refreshing twist on the classic cocktail. To finish don't miss the tiramisù.