„Às vezes, a felicidade mora nos momentos que não planejamos.“
(Sometimes happiness lives in the moments we didn’t plan.)
Búzios, Brazil – From a Small Fishing Village to a Beloved Coastal Escape
Búzios used to be a small fishing village and became famous in the 1960s thanks to the French actress Brigitte Bardot. Today, it is one of the most popular holiday resorts in Brazil - with small boutiques, cosy bars and a unique flair that immediately puts you in a good mood.
Spontaneous Discovery – and Instantly in Love
I was strolling through the cobblestone streets of Búzios with my husband when I spotted the beautifully set tables of the Altto Ristorante & Lounge from below. In that moment, I knew right away: that’s where I want to go!
The restaurant is part of the Hotel Vila d'Este, which is slightly elevated above the sea. A small flight of steps leads up to the top - and after just a few steps, you realise that it's worth the effort. Once at the top, a wow moment awaits you with a fantastic view over the bay.
The hotel itself also immediately makes a great impression. The Vila d'Este is charming, well-kept and designed with great attention to detail.
There is an outdoor bar on the same level, where you can enjoy a drink while looking out over the sea. Right next to it is the hotel pool with cosy loungers, which offers the same fantastic view.
You immediately sense that this is a small, personal house - cosy, snug and with a very special aura that suits Búzios perfectly.
Charming ambience with a view
The atmosphere in the ristorante was exactly what I had hoped for from the street. Once again, I had a good instinct. I was there at lunchtime and stayed until late afternoon.
![Interior of Altto Ristorante & Lounge at Vila d'Este Hotel in Búzios, Brazil - wall art „Love [a.mor]“ and beautifully set table. Interior of Altto Ristorante & Lounge at Vila d'Este Hotel in Búzios, Brazil - wall art “Love [a.mor]” and beautifully set table.](https://hotelandfoodlover.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/2BA619C5-6695-4263-AE6E-9500CE3B7591-993x1324.jpeg)
The music in the background was perfect and emphasised this special feeling. Next to me - familiar words, shared laughter and the wish that the moment would just stay.
The peace, the light, the feeling of getting to know this little corner of the world - simply marvellous.
Simply Enjoy
The service was wonderful - friendly, attentive and simply personable. I wasn't very hungry that day, but I was in the mood for something simple and a good drink. My rosé wine was really delicious and the beer was also perfect. Everything was calm, without any hustle and bustle - just the way you want a lunchtime moment in Búzios to be.
Finally, I treated myself to a caipirinha - refreshing, perfectly mixed and the ideal way to round off this lovely afternoon.
Cuisine with a Brazilian touch
went for a Brazilian-style minestrone that pleasantly surprised me – flavorful, fresh, and really delicious. Afterwards, I had a simple pasta, just right for that kind of midday meal. My husband chose fish, perfectly cooked and full of flavor. No overcomplicated dishes, just honest, down-to-earth food that truly hit the spot.
A Dinner One Can Only Imagine
It was already magical at midday. In the afternoon, when the sun was lower and the sea began to sparkle in the light, there was a calmness in the air that is hard to describe. I wonder what it looks like in the evening when the sun disappears behind the horizon and the little lights in the harbour light up - it must be simply beautiful.
My Conclusion: A Place to Savor
The Altto Ristorante & Lounge at Vila d’Este Hotel is one of those places you stumble upon by chance and never forget. If you’re in Búzios and looking for good food, warm service, and a stunning view – this is the place to be.
„A verdadeira beleza está em perceber o quanto somos abençoados por viver instantes assim.“
(True beauty lies in realizing how blessed we are to experience moments like these.)
Looks totally beautiful 🙂
Thank you😊It was fantastic
Looks very inviting 😎🤗
Danke🫶🏽😊