Exploring Belo Horizonte
Delicious Food, Vibrant Culture, and 5 Weeks of Discovery
First Impressions: Welcome to BH
Travel days are always a bit of a blur, but arriving in Belo Horizonte (or BH, as the locals call it) was a noticeable shift from the coastal vibes of Florianópolis. The city’s hilly streets and green surroundings stood out immediately, and my neighborhood, Nova Suíça, quickly charmed me with its cozy cafes, local bars, and welcoming vibe. It’s a city that felt both bustling and laid-back, with plenty to explore.
A Culinary Journey Through Minas Gerais
Minas Gerais is famous for its food, and Belo Horizonte was a feast for the senses. My first taste of the region’s cuisine was linguiça (sausage) and melty cheese on pão de queijo, paired with a lemony caldo de cana (sugarcane juice). It was the perfect introduction to the flavors of the region.
The Mercado Central was a highlight of my culinary adventures. This bustling market was a sensory overload, offering everything from fresh produce and spices to housewares and even live chickens. The cheese shops were especially popular, and I couldn’t resist buying some Canastra cheese and guava paste to enjoy back at the apartment for dessert. Lunch at the market was almôndegas exóticas—meatballs stuffed with cheese and served with pumpkin cream, rice, and fries. While good, I was excited to keep exploring the city’s culinary offerings.
One of the most memorable meals was at Mandacaru, a restaurant in a multi-level mercado, where I tried a modern twist on a Minas classic: chicken and okra stew. It was rich, flavorful, and unforgettable. I also had the equally delicious traditional version of the dish at Restaurante Prosa di Minas, followed by a scrumptious cheese and doce de leite dessert that was the perfect way to end the meal.
Of course, I couldn’t leave out the grilled salmon with lemon risotto at Silva Bar e Brasa in my neighborhood—it was divine! And while I didn’t get to try feijoada in BH or Floripa, I was determined to find it before leaving Brazil.
Exploring the City: Parks, Architecture, and Rooftop Views
Belo Horizonte is a city of contrasts, where modern architecture meets historic charm. Praça da Liberdade, with its beautiful gardens and surrounding buildings, was a favorite spot for evening strolls. I visited the Palácio da Liberdade twice—once to admire its stunning interior and again to confirm the presence of black swans in its garden. Spoiler: they were real!
The iconic church, designed by Oscar Niemeyer (below) was another architectural highlight, and the walk from there to lunch afterwards took me through residential neighborhoods, past the eco park, zoo, and botanical gardens. For panoramic views of the city, I headed to Mirante Mangabeiras and a rooftop terrace downtown, both offering stunning sunset vistas.
Parks are plentiful in Belo Horizonte, and I enjoyed wandering through Parque Municipal Américo Renné Giannetti, with its small lake, rowboat rentals, and walking paths. I also stumbled upon Praça do Papa, which was closed for renovations but still offered a nice view of the city.
Festivals, Friends, and Vibrant Nights
Belo Horizonte came alive at night, especially during the Festa da Luz, a weekend-long laser show on the skyline. I watched the final light show from Sapucaí, where samba beats filled the air and the streets were alive with energy. It was an incredible experience to walk through the vibrant scene before settling in for drinks with my new friends.
The Time Left app once again connected me with great people and delicious dinners. From Avra Bar to Pellegrino Restaurante, I enjoyed lively conversations and amazing food with new friends. One evening after exploring the Museum of Mines and Metal (below), I met a local friend from Time Left at Praça da Liberdade, where we were surprised to hear the music of a capoeira group. She explained what was happening as we watched the berimbaus and dancing. Afterward, we went to Forno da Saudade for beers and late pizzas with a view.
Even casual encounters turned into memorable moments. After the hippie fair downtown, I met new people who invited me to join their table for a drink. They had their adorable miniature pinscher, Kiwi, with them, which is how we struck up a conversation. After drinks, we crossed the bridge to Sapucaí, where the sun set to the rhythm of samba beats and the city’s energy was electric. The following day, I met up with the same friends for a walk through downtown, stopping for açaí bowls and exploring Praça da Estação.
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Everyday Life in BH
Not every day was packed with activities, but even the quieter moments in Belo Horizonte were special. I spent afternoons working at local cafes, enjoying the atmosphere and watching the city go by. On one walk, I spotted a man riding a horse and buggy along a busy urban street—a surprising and charming sight.
Evenings often ended with a caipirinha at a small neighborhood bar or a quiet dinner at home with cheese and guava paste for dessert. And when a cold kept me indoors for a few days, I still managed to venture out for pizza, gelato, and açaí bowls to keep my spirits up.
Looking Back on Belo Horizonte
My five weeks in Belo Horizonte were filled with unforgettable experiences. From the incredible food and historic architecture to the vibrant nightlife and warm people, BH offered a unique blend of culture and charm. I’ll always remember the bustling markets, the delicious meals, and the sunsets that lit up the skyline. But most of all, I’ll cherish the connections I made and the memories created in this incredible city. Belo Horizonte, you were truly one of a kind.
View my photos of Belo Horizonte here and here!