Helena Silvarolli recommends eight São Paulo restaurants for meetups with friends, spanning Italian classics, Japanese spots, and steakhouse staples.
Good food makes any reunion with friends feel more special. That is why influencer Helena Silvarolli curated addresses that mix strong menus with inviting atmospheres. In addition, the list fits both big groups and smaller catch-ups.
The picks range from Italian comfort to Japanese precision and meat-forward classics. This way, each group can choose based on mood, time, and occasion. Next, see her recommendations and what to order at each stop.
Bottega Bernacca focuses on pasta and cocktails
With a chic, modern vibe, Bottega Bernacca delivers a classic Italian feel. However, the room stays relaxed while still looking polished. The house stands out for its pasta and a broad cocktail selection.
Helena’s pick is the paccheri with tomato sauce and melted mozzarella. In addition, she says her favorite location is in Itaim Bibi. The brand also has other units across the city.
Address: R. Amauri, 244 – Itaim Bibi, São Paulo – SP
La Tambouille blends French and Italian flavors
La Tambouille mixes French and Italian dishes on the same menu. Because of that, it works well when the group has different tastes. The setting feels elegant and clean.
To start, she recommends the carpaccio canapés, light and appetizing. Next, the shrimp risotto is her highlighted main. For dessert, the bem-casado ice cream is her top choice.
Address: Av. Nove de Julho, 5925 – Itaim Bibi, São Paulo – SP
Rodeio is a go-to tradition
For Helena, Rodeio has become a tradition among friends. The décor feels cozy with a rustic touch, and the house highlights its meats. Still, the menu offers lighter options as well.
Her personal order is the full Juliana salad. In addition, she points to egg farofa, biro-biro rice, and the house specialty, sliced picanha. Finally, she praises the corn cream and the papaya cream.
Address: Av. Brig. Faria Lima, 2232 – Jardim Paulistano, São Paulo – SP
Santa Maria Sushi delivers a calm experience
Santa Maria Sushi ranks among her favorite Japanese restaurants in São Paulo. The space feels intimate and comfortable, best for smaller groups. That way, the meal stays unhurried.
She highlights the quality in both flavor and presentation. Meanwhile, she prefers going at night to enjoy the low, indirect lighting. Helena recommends the seared salmon sashimi and says the house hot roll stands out.
Address: Av. Cidade Jardim, 790 – Jardim Paulistano, São Paulo – SP
Tasca do Zé e da Maria brings Portugal to lunch
Tasca do Zé e da Maria feels homey while staying refined. For that reason, Helena lists it as a favorite lunch spot. The room is relaxed, well decorated, and well organized.
She calls out the duck rice and the seafood rice as top plates. In this way, the mains deliver a full and flavorful experience. For dessert, she often orders the rice pudding.
Address: R. dos Pinheiros, 434 – Pinheiros, São Paulo – SP
Il Capitale doubles down on Italian classics
With Il Capitale, Italian cuisine remains a clear theme on her list. The menu features traditional Italian dishes with polished presentation. In addition, pasta is the main draw.
Her repeat order is the truffle-finished gnocchi. Next, she recommends the Cipriani cake to close the meal. The restaurant sits on Oscar Freire.
Address: R. Oscar Freire, 608 – Jardim Paulista, São Paulo – SP
Magari San pairs a broad menu with cocktails
Magari San welcomes guests with elegant, contemporary décor. The menu spans pasta, seafood, and meat. This way, it suits different preferences at the same table.
Helena’s favorite is the mini X-burger with fries. In addition, she notes the care put into each dish and its details. If cocktails matter to your dinner, it is a strong option.
Address: Alameda Tietê, 161 – Cerqueira César, São Paulo – SP
Hon Maguro highlights Japanese craft
Hon Maguro shares the “favorite Japanese” status in her picks. Helena singles out the grilled eggplant as a standout. In addition, she praises the looks and quality of both dishes and drinks.
The décor draws on oriental influences and keeps the mood intimate. As a result, the space blends comfort with a refined feel. Finally, she recommends visiting the new unit in Jardim Paulista.
Address: R. Barão de Capanema, 551 – Jardim Paulista, São Paulo – SP