Welcome to O Caranguejo, a celebrated seafood haven tucked away in the vibrant heart of Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro. Situated just a few blocks from the bustling main strip, this gem has long been a favorite among locals who appreciate the rich flavors of the ocean and the warm atmosphere of this charming establishment.
As you step into O Caranguejo, you're enveloped by an inviting ambiance that feels both sophisticated and cozy. Dapper waiters in traditional uniforms ensure that every detail of your dining experience is attended to, making you feel like a valued guest rather than just another patron. The service is prompt and attentive, with staff eager to refill your glass and keep your plates brimming with delicious food.
The menu here is a seafood lover’s paradise, starting with the famous pastel de camarões, a crispy shrimp empanada that has won the hearts of many visitors. Another standout is the Lobster Belle Meuniere, a dish that not only feeds a group but leaves a lasting impression with its rich flavors and sumptuous presentation. Imagine indulging in tender lobster paired with savory potatoes, all while sipping on a well-selected wine – it’s an experience that encapsulates the spirit of Rio.
For those seeking variety, the restaurant delights patrons with a rotating selection of fresh fish, prepared with aromatic herb blends and local ingredients. Diners rave about the seafood paella, which boasts an impressive array of seafood—from succulent prawns and tender squid to juicy crayfish—all mingled with flavorful rice. Many reviews emphasize that the generous portions are worth every penny, making it a great choice for sharing.
O Caranguejo also features a casual bar area where you can grab tasty empanadas to-go, perfect for those who want to savor the deliciousness of their food on the beach or after a long day of exploring the vibrant city. The convenience of this setup, combined with the exceptional quality of the food, truly sets O Caranguejo apart as a must-visit dining destination.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner, a gathering with friends, or a journey through the flavors of Copacabana, O Caranguejo stands at the forefront of seafood excellence in Rio. It embodies the essence of coastal dining, where each bite invokes the ocean’s spirit wrapped in the local culture, inviting you to return time and time again.
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J Rodriguez
08/10/2025
This restaurant is well known for the locals and is hidden a few blocks from thr main strip. If you LOVE seafood this is the place to GO. They are well known for the "pastel de camarones" its a fried shrimp empanada that its delicious. We order the Lobster Belle Meuniere and feed 3. It was soooo good! Natan and Sousa were our servers and it felt that they wre our personal butler's. They make sure the wine glasses were top off, re-filled the plate with lobster, potatoes, and garnished them. It was a great experience.
Paulina Marchwińska
02/10/2025
I found the restaurant before I arrived in Rio, and upon arrival it turned out to be right next to our hotel. We ate dinner there every day and every day with a different fish. I ate the best fish of my life here. Everything fresh, aromatic, topped off with wine and a Rio vibe! A great place worth a visit! There is also a bar next to the restaurant where you can eat empanadas to take away. Highly recommended!
Deepak Sharma
25/08/2025
On my recent trip to Rio, I read some reviews online about this place. It truly is a hidden gem with fresh seafood and other options. The service is really fast as well. It is a must try in Copacabana beach.
Guy Brandon
07/08/2025
Charming old establishment with proper waiters in proper waiter’s uniforms. Very efficient and professional service, everything as expected. The fish was really very good, not a cheap meal, but a memorable one. The house shrimp pasties are certainly good, and a had a few with some beers here last week after the football, but the menu in the restaurant is very good as well. Bobo and Moqueca both good and the prawn and lobster brochette was worth visiting for. This restaurant is nearly as old as me and I imagine will be here serving great food for years to come. Great work, guys!
Saarah Asmal
27/07/2025
The BEST Seafood Paella you will ever eat! The dish was flavourful and moist with an amazing variety of seafood including squid, octopus, muscles, prawns, and 2 crayfish on top. Every bite included rice and seafood. While it might seem pricy, the portions are generous. The seafood paella is enough food to comfortably feed 4 adults.
Anirudhan P
02/07/2025
Sea bass Filet and shrimp sauce, 1 qty is enough to have for 3 persons. Delicious, amazing quality .