TheAmendoeiraBar

Anyone passing quickly along Conde de Azambuja street, near number 881, in the Maria da Graça neighborhood, might not even notice that a true bohemian stronghold of Rio's north zone is located there. Hidden by the leaves of the leafy tree that gives the house its name, on a corner framed by the suburban landscape, there is a traditional meeting point, a typical example of the suburb's gastronomic tradition: for lovers of good food: Bar Amendoeira.

Even though it is just a few meters from the modern Nova América and Norte Shopping malls with their large food courts that bear no resemblance whatsoever to the blue-and-white bar's charm, those who know and frequent Bar Amendoeira get the impression that all it takes is walking in and ordering something to feel like time seems to have stopped in the 1960s — at least the artisanal draft beer tap is still the same. Its internal structure contributes to this cozy atmosphere, surrounded by half-walls of original cobogós, creating a yellow-and-black mosaic, adorned by the blue tile cladding on the walls and yellow plant pots. The whole space is unified by a long counter, with simple yet striking decorative details that seem to embrace the regular customers.

Image description: This is a photograph of a bar called "O Bar Amendoeira." The image shows the facade of a light blue building with windows protected by metal bars. In front of the building, there is a large tree with a thick trunk and green leaves. People are gathered at the entrance of the bar, some entering and others leaving. The sky is partly cloudy, with scattered white clouds. There is also an electric power pole to the right of the image.

Opened in 1962 by veterinarian Augusto Vaz, Amendoeira was born as “Bar Lisbela.” It gradually became a landmark, keeping its loyal crowd ever since, who show up from Monday to Saturday chasing the excellent snacks. Like any good suburban boteco, even if a customer's intention was just to have a draft beer, unexpected run-ins with one, two, or more acquaintances change the course of the evening — and the size of the bill ends up proportional to the stories that flow freely from these chance encounters. The house's flagship dish, the meat croquette, pairs with the crisp pastéis, the juicy pork leg portion, and the house-style gizzard. Those who prefer something heartier can opt for a fine feijoada or the generous Bahian-style angu.

The imposing tree that dominates the entrance of the bar and restaurant invites customers to enjoy irresistible snacks in the shelter of its generous shade. Not by chance, it's easy to see that it's one of the favorite spots of the residents of Maria da Graça, as well as of Del Castilho, Méier, Cachambi, and the surrounding areas too.

Image description: The image is a photograph of a bar called "Bar Amendoeira." In the front area, there are wooden tables and chairs arranged in parallel rows. The walls are decorated with tiles in an alternating black and yellow checkered pattern. In front of the tables, there is a counter with plants in golden pots. In the background, there is a strip of tiles with the "Brahma" beer logo and other decorative elements.

A reference point for suburban commensality, the establishment was elected in 2012 as Cultural Heritage of Rio by the City Hall, for embodying the carioca spirit of celebrating life. The bar and its delights are a true oasis amid the factories and the subway line that are part of the neighborhood's urban landscape. Keeping up the good old tradition of the counter with treats on display, the Amendoeira nook keeps on enduring through the times.

The carioca tradition of hanging out at neighborhood bars is lived out literally in everyday suburban life, and the list of famous bars is huge. Besides Bar Amendoeira, there's Codorna do Feio, Manoel & Juaquim, Cachambeer, Bar do Papa, Choppinho da Abolição, Bode Cheiroso, Gato de Botas, among many others that proudly preserve this cultural heritage from the North to the West Zone of the city.

Image description: The image is a photograph of a bar called "Bar da Amendoeira." In the front, there is a display case with prepared food dishes. On the left, a man stands with his back turned, wearing a white shirt with a logo on the back. Behind him, there is a large wooden bottle and several bottles of alcoholic beverages arranged on shelves. In the background, there is a sign reading "Good Card" and other decorative elements.