Café Lamas was founded in April 1874, back in the days of the Brazilian Empire. Not only is it the oldest restaurant in Rio de Janeiro, but it’s also the oldest in the country still in operation, with 152 years of history.
However, due to a fire that destroyed the kitchen in June of this year, this traditional Rio spot closed its doors. The good news is that, for those who have been waiting to enjoy that draft beer or savor the menu’s classics, the wait is over!
After four months and a brand-new kitchen, Café Lamas reopened its doors this Wednesday and remains open to preserve all its history and tradition. We’ll share more details below.
A campaign mobilized restaurants in Rio and São Paulo to restore Lamas
When Café Lamas was struck by a fire that destroyed the kitchen and forced it to close its doors, bars and restaurants in Rio and São Paulo came together in a show of solidarity.
Thus, under the hashtag #JuntospeloLamas, the campaign brought together various establishments in both cities, which donated the proceeds from the sale of a selected dish, appetizer, or drink to the restoration work on the century-old building.
In addition to renovations in the kitchen, the project also included upgrading the electrical systems, painting, and adding an accessible restroom, all while preserving the traditional atmosphere.
In fact, donations can still be made through the restaurant’s official website.
Café Lamas is a Rio de Janeiro Cultural Heritage site and serves dishes that have been popular for decades
The reopening of Café Lamas demonstrates the resilience of one of Rio de Janeiro’s most traditional culinary institutions.
Since its founding, the restaurant has welcomed various notable figures, such as Machado de Assis, Getúlio Vargas, Carmen Miranda, Cândido Portinari, and jurist Rui Barbosa.
What’s more, it’s considered a Rio Cultural Heritage site, and its cuisine is internationally famous! Anyone who’s tasted Lamas’s breaded steak with French-style sides knows exactly what we’re talking about!
Speaking of which, the Oswaldo Aranha-style steak and the parmigiana steak are also big hits and remain a strong, tasty fixture on the menu.
📍Rua Marquês de Abrantes, 18-A – Flamengo
