Belém, capital of the state of Pará, is a port city and gateway to Brazil’s lower Amazon region. Belém is renowned for its historic landmarks, scenic riverside views, and vibrant cultural scene. Among its many attractions, the rooftop café bars stand out as the perfect way to start or end an evening, offering panoramic views, a relaxed atmosphere, and an array of drinks and cuisines to suit all tastes. In this article, we explore the best rooftop café bars in Belém, highlighting those with the best evening views, their unique features, and some tips to make the most of your visit.
Advantages of Rooftop Cafe Bars
Rooftop café bars offer a unique blend of open-air relaxation and breathtaking vistas. Here are a few compelling advantages:
Spectacular Views: Rooftop settings afford visitors a bird’s-eye perspective of the city’s landmarks, landscapes, and rivers, especially captivating at sunset.
Ambiance: The combination of fresh air, tasteful decor, and often subtle, live music creates an ideal atmosphere for relaxation and socializing.
Exclusive Experience: Rooftops often have limited space, adding an element of exclusivity and intimacy to the experience, perfect for a special date or a quiet escape.
Versatile Menus: Many rooftop bars offer a range of food and drink options, from casual tapas to fine dining, complemented by a variety of cocktails, wines, and local beers.
Rio Maravilha
Located atop the LX Factory, Rio Maravilha is an eclectic rooftop bar that offers sprawling views of the 25 de Abril Bridge, the Tejo River, and the Christ the King statue.
Interior: The interior is a mix of industrial and vintage styles, featuring colorful murals and unique, artistic furniture. It captures the bohemian spirit of the area.
Menu: The menu showcases a fusion of Portuguese and Brazilian cuisines, with standout dishes like picanha and bacalhau à brás, alongside an extensive cocktail list.
Ambiance: The vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by the diverse crowd and regular live music or DJ sets, making it a lively yet laid-back spot perfect for an evening out.
Visiting Tips: Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during weekends. Dress casually but stylishly to fit in with the trendy crowd. Don’t forget your camera for some Instagram-worthy shots of the sunset over the river.
Topo Belém
Located on the roof of the Centro Cultural de Belém, Topo Belém offers a more serene setting, perfect for those looking to unwind while still enjoying some of the best views in Belém.
Interior: The minimalist design with comfortable seating and soft lighting promotes a more relaxed ambiance, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
Menu: The menu is diverse, featuring an array of tapas, gourmet burgers, and fresh salads, as well as an impressive list of cocktails and local wines.
Ambiance: With a quieter, more sophisticated atmosphere, this venue is ideal for a more intimate or low-key evening out. The beautiful, unobstructed views of Belém’s historical monuments are the star of the show here.
Visiting Tips: This is the place to go for a truly relaxing experience. Consider visiting after a trip to the cultural center to unwind. Reservations are recommended on weekends to avoid waiting times.
Le Chat
Perched alongside the Tapada das Necessidades, Le Chat is a contemporary rooftop bar known for its chic vibe and sweeping views of the river and Pillar 7 Bridge.
Interior: The modern, sleek decor with plush seating and upscale finishes creates an air of sophistication. The al fresco terrace is adorned with stylish lounge furniture.
Menu: Le Chat is noted for its comprehensive menu of Mediterranean-inspired tapas, elegant cocktails, and a well-curated selection of wines and champagnes.
Ambiance: The ambiance is polished yet comfortable, attracting a mix of locals and tourists. Live DJ sessions on weekends transform the space into a lively nightspot.
Visiting Tips: Given its chic atmosphere, semi-formal attire is recommended. It’s a great venue for a pre-dinner drink or a late-night tête-à-tête under the stars. Make sure to try their signature cocktails for a unique taste experience.
Okah Rooftop
Okah Rooftop provides an urban escape with its rooftop venue offering panoramic views of the river and the modern landscapes of Belém. Located in the Docklands area, it’s a hotspot for contemporary vibes.
Interior: The space blends urban aesthetics with natural elements, featuring wooden decks, sleek metal furniture, and lush greenery. It exudes a laid-back yet modern feel.
Menu: The menu primarily focuses on Asian-fusion dishes, offering a flavorful array of sushi, sashimi, and hot Japanese dishes, along with innovative cocktails and sake.
Ambiance: Okah’s ambiance is both chic and relaxed, making it perfect for both casual catch-ups and special celebrations. The mix of ambient music and modern decor sets a calm yet festive tone.
Visiting Tips: Plan your visit for the sunset hours to catch breathtaking views. Given its popularity, reserving a table in advance is highly advisable. Casual chic attire works best here.
Sky Bar
Situated atop the Tivoli Oriente Hotel, Sky Bar is one of the most luxurious rooftop venues in Belém. It offers a stunning, elevated perspective of the city and the Tagus River.
Interior: With its contemporary and upscale decor, including plush seating, designer furniture, and ambient lighting, the interior is designed to impress.
Menu: The bar menu offers a range of gourmet snacks and small plates, as well as premium cocktails, wines, and champagnes, perfect for a decadent evening.
Ambiance: The sophisticated atmosphere attracts an upscale crowd. Live performances and DJ sets often spice up the ambiance, making it a vibrant yet refined spot.
Visiting Tips: Dress smartly to match the venue’s upscale vibe. Sky Bar is perfect for special occasions and romantic dates. Arriving at dusk will reward you with spectacular twilight views and a front-row seat to the city lighting up.