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THE LOCAL ESCAPE

FLORIANÓPOLIS

Great Restaurants in Floripa (Part 1)

  • Dec 23, 2025
  • 15 min read

Updated: Jan 11

We could start a whole blog just talking about great places to eat in and around Florianópolis. That is why this is only part 1 of many to follow, presenting curated options to dine.

Florianópolis (“Floripa”) offers an eclectic culinary landscape—from no-frills seafood shacks by the water to sophisticated international bistros. Local insiders know that the island’s food scene is as enticing as its beaches, blending traditional Azorean flavors with modern gastronomy. Floripa’s best restaurants span hidden gems accessible only by boat, award-winning fine dining spots, vegan-friendly cafés, and vibrant eateries reflecting the island’s cosmopolitan mix. Whether you’re a food-loving traveler, a couple seeking a romantic dinner, a digital nomad hunting for your next lunch spot, or a design enthusiast, this curated list highlights 10+ top restaurants (as of 2025–2026) that deliver real culinary quality and diversity. Each pick notes the neighborhood, cuisine, what makes it special, must-try dishes, vibe, price level, and hours. Dive in and savor the flavors of Floripa – and bring your appetite!

(Pro tip: Brazilians love a hearty buffet almoço (lunch) – even Floripa’s simple buffet-by-weight spots (link coming soon) come with ocean views and fresh local dishes. And on weekends, popular places fill up fast, so consider making reservations when you can.)


Fine Dining & Gourmet

Artusi Ristorante (Centro) – Refined Italian Classics in the Heart of Floripa

Located on a trendy street in downtown Florianópolis, Artusi Ristorante is often hailed as the city’s top fine dining establishment. This elegant Italian restaurant, led by celebrated chef Alysson Müller, strikes a balance between cozy and refined – think white-tablecloth sophistication meets warm hospitality. Artusi specializes in authentic Italian cuisine with a regional twist. The menu showcases classic pastas (their spaghetti carbonara is a standout) and inventive seafood risottos like the risotto alla pescatore, highlighting fresh local catch. The restaurant’s climate-controlled wine cellar offers an excellent selection of wines to pair with your meal, and the staff are skilled at recommendations.

What makes it special: Artusi has earned the #1 spot in a 2024 local restaurant guide, with experts praising its ingredient quality, creativity, and impeccable service. The ambiance is intimate and polished – ideal for a romantic date night or any special occasion.

What to try: The shrimp and octopus risotto or the chef’s tasting menu (if available) for a journey through Artusi’s best flavors.

Vibe: A fusion of welcoming and upscale – you’ll feel pampered without pretense.

Price: $$$$ (high-end fine dining).

Hours: Open for lunch and dinner (closed Sunday evenings; lunch only on Sun).

Reservations: Highly recommended, especially for dinner, as this is one of Floripa’s most acclaimed restaurants.



Rosso Restaurante (Santo Antônio de Lisboa) – Award-Winning Seafood with Sunset Views

In the charming historic neighborhood of Santo Antônio de Lisboa – known for its Azorean heritage and bayfront vistas – Rosso Restaurante stands out as a gastronomic icon of Santa Catarina. Specializing in sophisticated seafood and contemporary Brazilian cuisine, Rosso has garnered local awards for its excellence. The restaurant offers a panoramic view of the bay, with tables overlooking the water and spectacular sunset scenery, providing a perfect backdrop for an unforgettable meal. Chef Alysson Müller (yes, the same chef behind Artusi) infuses creativity into regional seafood. The menu’s famed highlight is the moqueca de camarão – an award-winning prawn stew cooked in a rich, fragrant sauce, reflecting Brazilian coastal tradition with a gourmet touch. Their wine list is carefully curated to complement the seafood flavors.

What makes it special: Rosso marries fresh local seafood with high culinary art. It has an elegant, airy interior with decor inspired by Azorean style, making it ideal for both upscale family dinners and romantic celebrations. The combination of top-notch food, setting, and service has earned Rosso a loyal following and critical acclaim.

What to try: Aside from the heavenly shrimp moqueca, try the catch of the day in their signature preparation or the octopus à la Rosso if available.

Vibe: Elegant seaside dining – expect a mix of well-heeled locals and visitors toasting a special evening.

Price: $$$ (fine dining but worth the splurge).

Hours: Open daily for lunch and dinner (until around 11 pm; slightly earlier closing on Sundays).

Reservations: Recommended, particularly for weekend nights or a prime sunset-time table by the window.



Osli Restaurante (Centro) – Modern Brazilian Tasting Menu atop a Design Hotel

Tucked inside the stylish LK Design Hotel in downtown Floripa, Osli Restaurante offers a cutting-edge culinary experience for those seeking creative Brazilian cuisine in a chic setting. Under the direction of chef Felipe Silva – known for his inventive use of local ingredients – Osli presents artfully plated dishes that fuse tradition with modern techniques. Many diners opt for the seasonal tasting menu, which might feature anything from tender Amazonian fish with indigenous spices to reimagined island classics, each course paired with an optional wine or craft cocktail. One of Osli’s draws is its setting: the restaurant includes access to a rooftop lounge with a view of the city and ocean, perfect for a pre-dinner drink or post-meal digestif.

What makes it special: Osli provides a truly upscale experience that feels cosmopolitan – it wouldn’t be out of place in São Paulo or London. The interior is modern and sophisticated, with designer furnishings and an open kitchen vibe. Yet, it maintains a connection to Santa Catarina’s flavors through farm-to-table sourcing.

What to try: If not doing the full tasting menu, consider their signature dish which often features local octopus or prawns in an innovative preparation (the offerings change often). Also, don’t skip the crafted desserts or the sommelier’s wine picks.

Vibe: Sleek and intimate – great for foodies and design-oriented travelers. You might see business dinners on weekdays and stylish couples on weekends.

Price: $$$$ (tasting menu and fine dining pricing).

Hours: Lunch and dinner, typically Monday–Saturday (closed Sunday).

Reservations: Yes, especially for dinner or if you want the rooftop seating with a view – Osli is gaining a reputation fast.



Local Seafood Gems

Ostradamus Bar e Restaurante (Ribeirão da Ilha) – Legendary Oyster House by the Bay

No list of Floripa restaurants is complete without Ostradamus, the island’s most famous seafood restaurant. Located in the picturesque fishing village of Ribeirão da Ilha (south of the island), Ostradamus sits on stilts over the water, offering diners a rustic-chic ambiance literally above the bay where the oysters are farmed. Known for its fresh oysters (harvested right from the surrounding waters) and classic Azorean recipes, Ostradamus delivers a unique gastronomic adventure. You can choose oysters prepared in various styles – raw on the half shell, gratinadas (gratinated) bubbling with cheese and herbs, or pan-fried with garlic and olive oil, to name a few. Their menu also features local specialties like sequência de ostras (an oyster tasting sequence) and hearty seafood stews. One must-try dish is the arroz de marisco – a traditional seafood rice loaded with shellfish, which comes piping hot and richly flavored.

What makes it special: Ostradamus is an institution – beloved by tourists and locals (who don’t mind braving the long wait on summer weekends). The decor is charmingly nautical and quirky; guests often leave notes and currency on the walls as a souvenir of their visit. As you dine, you might feel the gentle sway of the deck with the tide – it’s all part of the experience.

What to try: Definitely sample the oysters in at least one form (the gratinated oysters are a hit even for those new to bivalves). The shrimp pastel (fried pastry) is a perfect starter, and the Florianópolis-style fish dish (usually baked whole fish with local spices) is excellent for mains.

Vibe: Lively, casual, and family-friendly, yet with a sense of tradition. The bay views at sunset are magical, and often you’ll see fishing boats bringing in the day’s catch.

Price: $$ – $$$ (moderate to upper-mid, depending on how many oysters and seafood platters you indulge in).

Hours: Usually open for lunch through dinner daily. Note that in high season, wait times can be long without a reservation.

Reservations: Accepted for weekdays; on weekends it’s first-come-first-serve, so arrive early or be prepared to enjoy a caipirinha at the attached bar while waiting.



Restaurante Bela Ilha (Costa da Lagoa) – Rustic Seafood Feast with a Boat Ride

For a truly off-the-beaten-path dining adventure, head to Restaurante Bela Ilha on the Costa da Lagoa – a secluded community along the Lagoa da Conceição accessible only by boat or hiking. Bela Ilha is a hidden gem known for its delicious seafood and the journey required to get there. The restaurant even offers a free boat shuttle for patrons from a designated dock, making the trip an enjoyable part of the experience. Once you arrive, you’re greeted by a simple, family-run establishment with tables on a deck overlooking the tranquil lake. The specialty here is the Sequência de Frutos do Mar – an abundant multi-course seafood feast. This typically includes fish stewed in regional spices, crispy fried shrimp, calamari, savory casquinhas de siri (stuffed crab shells) as starters, and whatever fresh catch is available. Portions are generous and meant to be shared.

What makes it special: Bela Ilha combines authentic local flavor with an adventure. You’ll dine like the locals do on lazy Sunday afternoons – sipping an ice-cold beer or caipirinha, nibbling on house-made fish fritters, and soaking up the lush nature around you. It’s a welcome escape from the city bustle; you might even spot monkeys or herons nearby.

What to try: Go for the full seafood sequence if you’re with a group – it’s the best way to sample a bit of everything (and you won’t leave hungry). Their grilled whole fish is also outstanding, simply prepared to let the freshness shine. Vibe: Very casual, toes-in-the-sand vibe (figuratively – you’re on a wooden deck by the water). It feels like having lunch at a friend’s lake house.

Price: $$ (great value for the quantity and quality of seafood).

Hours: Typically open for lunch only, from late morning until around 5 PM (Tuesday–Sunday). This is a daytime excursion spot.

Reservations: Not usually required on normal days; on summer weekends, it’s good to call ahead or arrive early to ensure the boat can take you, as it can get popular with local families.



International Flavors

Los Troncos Parrilla Uruguaya (Centro) – World-Class Steakhouse with Uruguayan Soul

Meat lovers, rejoice: Los Troncos Parrilla brings the authentic taste of Uruguay’s grilling tradition to Florianópolis, and it does so with exceptional quality. Having recently moved into a historic house in central Floripa (Praça Getúlio Vargas), Los Troncos has been showering in accolades – it’s ranked among the top 10% of restaurants worldwide according to TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards. In 2024, it was even honored as a Best of the Best winner, the only restaurant in Santa Catarina to receive that global recognition. The star of the show here is the parrilla: a traditional Uruguayan wood-fired grill. The menu features premium cuts of beef (like ojo de bife ribeye, chorizo steak, tender baby beef) as well as other proteins and even seafood grilled to perfection over charcoal embers. Each dish highlights the rich, smoky flavor that the parrilla imparts. Be sure to try the house chimichurri sauce alongside your steak. The restaurant’s dedication to top-notch ingredients and attentive service is evident – from the moment you’re greeted with a smile to the final bite of dessert.

What makes it special: Los Troncos offers a polished yet soulful dining experience. The ambiance blends rustic and upscale – wooden beams, a flickering fire from the grill, and an elegant wine bar in the corner. It’s equally suited for a celebratory dinner or an indulgent lunch. Given its awards and consistent 5-star reviews, you can trust you’re in for an outstanding meal. They’ve even expanded into hosting events and opened an exclusive cocktail bar “Getúlio Secreto” upstairs, demonstrating their commitment to evolving hospitality.

What to try: Obviously, a grilled steak – the bife de chorizo (sirloin) is a house favorite, perfectly juicy with that charred crust. Also consider the Parrillada Los Troncos, a mixed grill platter that lets you sample various cuts and sausages (great for two people). On the side, try the provolone cheese “à la parrilla” (grilled cheese appetizer) and the creamy herb mashed potatoes.

Vibe: Upscale grill house – you’ll see well-dressed families at Sunday lunch, business groups, and couples on date nights. Despite the sophistication, it’s warm and not stuffy, with the aroma of grilling in the air and perhaps a tango or soft jazz playing.

Price: $$$ (on the higher side, but justified by quality; mains are pricey, sides extra – typical for a steakhouse).

Hours: Open for lunch and dinner, Tues–Sun (closed Mondays; mid-day break between lunch and dinner on weekdays).

Reservations: Yes, especially on weekends. This place is extremely popular and fills up fast – it’s a top choice for carnivores in Floripa.



Vista Nipô Sushi (Centro – Beiramar Shopping & SC-401) – Chic Sushi Bar with a Great View

For those craving Japanese cuisine, Vista Nipô offers an experience that is a feast for the eyes as much as the palate. Perched on the ground floor of the Beiramar Shopping Center in downtown Floripa, this sushi restaurant boasts a spectacular panoramic view of the city’s North Bay and skyline. Floor-to-ceiling windows let you gaze out at the ocean while enjoying elegantly crafted Japanese dishes. If that is not high enough, opt for Vista Nipô’s restaurant on the rooftop of Passeio Primavera directly at the SC-401 with views over the natural preserve onto the sea. The menu of both restaurants covers all the classics – from ultra-fresh sashimi (their precise cuts and high-quality fish get high marks) to creative maki rolls and hot dishes like yakisoba and tempura. They also shine in the drinks department: a cocktail bar serves refreshing sake-based concoctions and Japanese whiskey options, perfect for a sunset happy hour. The combination of flavors and scenery makes it a memorable stop.

What makes it special: As the name suggests, the view is a major draw – time your visit for early evening to catch the sunset glinting off the water. The restaurant’s interior is sleek and modern, with a lounge-like atmosphere, soft lighting, and a live DJ on some nights to set a trendy mood. It’s a bit unusual to have such a sophisticated restaurant in a mall, but Beiramar is an upscale mall and Vista Nipô feels like its own world once you step inside.

What to try: The Omakase platter (chef’s selection of assorted sushi and sashimi) is a great choice to savor the variety. Fans rave about the specialty rolls that fuse Brazilian ingredients with Japanese technique – for example, rolls featuring fresh mango or seared tuna with passionfruit. Also sample an artisanal sake cocktail or a classic caipisake (a Brazilian-Japanese fusion drink).

Vibe: Urban and chic – popular with a younger professional crowd and friend groups out for a stylish evening. Yet it’s also date-friendly, given the romantic vista.

Price: $$$ (Japanese food in Brazil tends to be upscale; expect prices to match the setting).

Hours: Lunch and dinner most days, with a break in the afternoon. (Typically closed on Sunday nights; lunch service Mon–Fri and dinners Mon–Sat.)

Reservations: Recommended for dinner, especially for window-side tables. Walk-ins okay at lunch. If you’re shopping in Beiramar, you can also drop by spontaneously.



Restaurante Dubai (Coqueiros & Santa Mônica) – Middle Eastern Flavors and Esfirra Hype

Florianópolis’ multicultural side is on display at Restaurante Dubai, a locally loved spot for Middle Eastern cuisine. With one location in the mainland district of Coqueiros (offering lovely views of the bay) and another in Santa Mônica, Dubai has gained fame on social media for its giant esfirras – yes, extra-large versions of the savory stuffed pies common in Arab-Brazilian fare. The menu ranges from classic Lebanese and Syrian-inspired dishes (like creamy hummus, baba ganoush, falafel, kibbeh) to hearty grilled meats (kafta, lamb) and platters of spiced rice and salads. Portions are generous. The ambience in Coqueiros is fantastic for an evening meal: they have outdoor seating overlooking the water, making it perfect to relax and enjoy a Mediterranean vibe in Floripa.

What makes it special: Dubai combines authenticity with a fun twist. The giant esfiha became a viral sensation and is a must-try novelty – imagine a flaky pastry the size of a personal pizza, filled with your choice of cheese, beef, mushrooms, or other toppings. But beyond the gimmick, the flavors are genuinely on point, thanks to recipes passed down and spices imported from the Middle East. The restaurant decor features Arabian lanterns and touches that create a warm, casual atmosphere.

What to try: The esfiha gigante of course – perhaps the mixed cheese and spinach one. Also the shawarma platter or Arabian mixed grill for a bit of everything (often includes skewers of chicken, lamb, kafta, served with pita and garlic sauce). Don’t skip a sweet finish: baklava pastries or Arabic coffee with cardamom.

Vibe: Casual, family-friendly, and lively. You’ll see groups of friends laughing over hookah (yes, they offer shisha in a lounge area) and families enjoying a different kind of comfort food. Often there’s Middle Eastern music playing softly.

Price: $$ (very reasonable – you get a lot of food for the price, and sharing is common).

Hours: Open daily for dinner, and lunch too on most days (the Santa Mônica branch is more lunch-oriented). Generally 11:30am–3pm and 6pm–11pm.

Reservations: Not usually necessary; there’s ample space. Weekends can be busy, so a call ahead wouldn’t hurt if you’re a big group.



Casual & Creative Eats

Artesano Pizza Bar (Lagoa da Conceição) – Craft Pizza, Brews & Vegan Delights

Set in the always-buzzing Lagoa da Conceição neighborhood, Artesano Pizza Bar is a beloved spot for both locals and travelers. True to its name, Artesano specializes in artisanal wood-fired pizzas with long-fermented dough – expect a light, crispy crust and high-quality toppings. The setting is a hip, rustic pub style: wooden tables, string lights, and often a live acoustic musician strumming in the corner. What makes Artesano especially stand out is its inclusivity for all diets. In addition to classic pizzas (Margherita, pepperoni, four-cheese, etc.), they offer a full vegan menu of pizzas, even featuring a vegan requeijão (Brazilian cream cheese) so you can get that gooey stuffed crust experience plant-based. Fresh local ingredients, creative flavor combos (think arugula, sundried tomato and parmesan; or fig and gorgonzola) and a great beer selection (including craft brews) round out the experience.

What makes it special: Artesano hits that sweet spot of trendy yet unpretentious. It’s the kind of place you might start a night out – grab a pizza and some cocktails with friends before heading to nearby bars – or simply linger for hours in conversation. The atmosphere is cozy and convivial, with a mix of surfers fresh off the beach, remote workers unwinding, and families sharing a pie. They have multiple locations (another in the Santa Mônica area), but the Lagoa one is particularly charming, tucked in a side street near the water.

What to try: The Vegano Supreme Pizza – loaded with veggies and that famous vegan requeijão “cheese” in the crust – gets rave reviews from herbivores and omnivores alike. For meat-eaters, the Calabrese Artesano with artisan-calabresa sausage and caramelized onions is delicious. Also, sample any of their bruschettas or the garlic bread as a starter.

Vibe: Laid-back and youthful. It can get busy after 8pm, with a jovial crowd spilling onto the sidewalk. Lighting is warm, music is upbeat but not too loud – in short, a great casual night out spot.

Price: $$ (pizzas mid-range, and big enough to share; good value).

Hours: Open every evening (generally 6pm until about midnight or later on weekends). Some branches open for lunch on weekends.

Reservations: Not usually taken; it’s first come, first served. If it’s full, you can put your name on a list and grab a beer while you wait.



Empório Capella Restaurante (Itacorubi) – Eclectic Bistro in a Historic Chapel

Empório Capella is a restaurant that delights both your taste buds and your sense of history. Housed in a beautifully restored old chapel (capela) that once belonged to a Methodist church, this unique eatery in the Itacorubi neighborhood offers a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. High arched ceilings, original wood features, and stained-glass accents give the space character, while modern art and vintage décor pieces add a touch of bohemian chic. The cuisine is as eclectic as the venue: the menu ranges from Brazilian favorites to international dishes, all crafted with a homemade approach. You might find a surf-and-turf filet mignon with grilled shrimp, a delicate vegan mushroom risotto, or a hearty farm-style Brazilian feijoada on certain days. Empório Capella is also known for its live music nights – often jazz or bossa nova – that pair perfectly with their wine and cocktail selection.

What makes it special: It’s not every day you dine in a 19th-century chapel, and the owners have done a fantastic job preserving the historic charm while making it a trendy bistro. There’s a feeling of intimacy and romance, especially in the evenings when the chapel is lit with candles and soft lighting. They frequently host events, from jazz evenings to private celebrations, so it’s a cultural hub too.

What to try: The menu can change, but standouts include the Camarão à Capella (jumbo shrimp in a garlic cream sauce) and the house gnocchi with lamb ragu – a great example of their international flair. On weekends, they sometimes do special menus or feasts, so inquire ahead.

Vibe: Charming and artsy. It’s popular for date nights (lots of marriage proposals have happened here, we hear) and gatherings of friends who want to enjoy music and food in a beautiful setting. Not super touristy – you’ll rub elbows with local food connoisseurs in the know.

Price: $$$ (moderate-to-high, given the portion sizes and setting – you pay partly for the unique ambiance).

Hours: Typically dinner only, Tuesday to Saturday (around 7pm to 11pm). Occasionally open for special brunch or lunch events.

Reservations: Recommended for live music nights or weekends, as seating is somewhat limited (it is a small chapel, after all).



Dining Tips

Floripa’s dining scene is vibrant and diverse – much like the island itself. From seafood feasts on hidden lagoons to stylish sushi lounges and steakhouse temples of meat, each restaurant on this list offers a distinct taste of Florianópolis’ culture. To make the most of your culinary adventures, consider timing and logistics: distances on the island can be significant (north to south can take over an hour), so plan dinners near where you’re staying or touring that day. It’s wise to reserve ahead for popular spots (especially in summer high season or holidays) – locals love dining out, and the best places fill up fast. Also, don’t be shy about chatting with chefs or staff; island hospitality is warm, and they might have insider tips on off-menu specialties or nearby hidden gems.

Finally, remember that exploring Floripa’s food is just one part of the experience. Between meals, you can fuel up at one of the best coffee shops in Florianópolis (the island has a growing specialty coffee scene), discover secret beaches and local markets (check out our guide to Floripa’s hidden gems), or walk off those calories in charming neighborhoods (see our tips on the best neighborhoods to stay and explore in Floripa). Bom apetite and enjoy every moment in this tropical paradise!

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