Leite Restaurant
Recife
Lunch at Leite on Friday or Sunday is an institution in itself, where Recife's elite like to be seen. Any day, it's best to arrive early or book ahead. Watch out for the chef doing his rounds - he's easy to spot through his nickname, Bigode (literally 'Moustache').
This lovely Portuguese restaurant offers honest, quality food that will delight your taste buds. The dishes served up here boast Portuguese and Brazilian overtones and it is these culinary influences that attract people from all over Brazil, plus other countries too!
Situated downtown by the banks of Capibaribe River, Leite Restaurant is housed in one of the more traditional parts of Recife. While the restaurant is now owned by the Portuguese Dias brothers, it was originally established way back in 1882 by Manoel Leite, a visionary and creative Portuguese entrepreneur. With a desire to create a refined and classy establishment, Leite imported all sorts of fine luxuries from Europe, including the best of English dishware, crystal glasses and silver cutlery. Needless to say, the restaurant became extremely popular with the high society of Leite's day.
More recently, the Portuguese dining spot has been refurbished to live up to modern standards, incorporating contemporary amenities such as air-conditioning and an English menu, to create a comfortable and approachable environment. However, the Dias brothers have retained the restaurant's wonderful, historical architectural traits, ensuring a blend of old and new are achieved.
Opening Times:
Sunday - Friday: 11.30am - 3.30pm
