Exploring the Art of Fine Dining: Two of São Paulo’s Most Innovative Michelin-Starred Restaurants

Evvai – A Michelin-Starred Fusion of Italian and Brazilian Cuisine

Evvai, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant in São Paulo, is a testament to Chef Luiz Filipe Souza’s innovative approach to fine dining. Blending Italian traditions with Brazilian influences, Evvai’s Oriundi cuisine celebrates the immigrant heritage that shaped Brazil’s culinary landscape.

The tasting menu is an artistic journey, featuring meticulously crafted dishes that highlight seasonal Brazilian ingredients while honoring classic Italian techniques. Signature plates include refined handmade pastas, seafood crudos, and expertly balanced flavor pairings, complemented by a carefully curated wine and cocktail selection.

Elegant yet contemporary, Evvai offers an immersive dining experience where storytelling, flavor, and craftsmanship come together in perfect harmony.

Tuju – Where Innovation Meets Sustainability

Tuju, known for its Michelin-starred excellence and Green Star sustainability, is a true reflection of São Paulo’s modern gastronomy. Chef Ivan Ralston crafts a menu that merges Brazilian biodiversity with avant-garde techniques, resulting in dishes that are both visually striking and rich in flavor.

The restaurant’s philosophy revolves around hyper-local sourcing, with many ingredients coming from its on-site urban garden. Expect a tasting menu filled with unexpected textures, native Brazilian ingredients, and refined presentations that push the boundaries of contemporary cuisine.

With a focus on sustainability, creativity, and an ever-evolving menu, Tuju offers a cutting-edge gastronomic experience that showcases the best of Brazil’s culinary future.

Evvai: A Michelin-Starred Exploration of Oriundi Cuisine

At Evvai, Chef Luiz Filipe Souza masterfully blends Italian tradition with Brazilian innovation, creating a tasting menu that celebrates São Paulo’s diverse culinary heritage. The OR242 menu is an elegant progression of meticulously crafted dishes, showcasing hyper-local ingredients and refined techniques.

Tasting Menu Highlights

• Melon, Puxuri & Chickpea – A delicate, palate-awakening starter featuring a unique Amazonian spice.
• Manioc Bread & Cheese Selection – Traditional cheese bread made with rare cheeses from Marajó Island, paired with polvilho biscuit and Grana Padano whey.
• Wagyu Bresaola, Lizards & Smoked Tea – A rich yet delicate preparation highlighting aged Wagyu beef and deep umami notes.
• Pupunha Heart of Palm Tagliatelle & Bottarga – A stunning pasta-inspired dish that transforms heart of palm into silky ribbons, topped with salted fish roe.
• Fish of the Day with BORI Special Urucum & Pancetta – A delicate seafood dish elevated with indigenous urucum (annatto) and crispy pancetta.
• Xinxin Chicken & Marsala – A Brazilian take on Marsala chicken, infused with Afro-Brazilian xinxin sauce, known for its nutty and coconut-based richness.
• Cotechino with Black Bean Broth & Goat Pepper – A deep, smoky dish featuring traditional Italian cotechino sausage in a bold black bean broth with a Brazilian spice kick.
• Green Corn & Cerrado Vanilla with Oscietra Caviar – A luxurious balance of sweet, creamy corn and vanilla, topped with one of the world’s finest caviars.
• Yellow Fruits, Soursop & Manduri Honey – A refreshing, tropical interlude featuring rare Manduri honey from the Cerrado region.
• Rebel, Rebel Tiramisu – A playful yet sophisticated reinterpretation of the classic Italian dessert.
• Mignardises – A final indulgence of petit fours, completing the meal with elegance.

With two Michelin Stars, Evvai’s tasting menu is a sensory journey through Brazil’s rich flavors and Italian heritage, making it one of São Paulo’s most essential fine dining experiences.

Tuju: A Michelin-Starred Celebration of Brazilian Biodiversity

Indulge in luxury and excitement

Renowned for its Michelin Star and Green Star, Tuju is a culinary destination that merges sustainability with innovation. Chef Ivan Ralston crafts a hyper-seasonal menu, featuring rare and locally sourced ingredients that showcase Brazil’s rich biodiversity. The “Rain Season” tasting menu is an exploration of flavors, textures, and techniques, designed to honor Brazil’s natural ecosystems while delivering a world-class dining experience.

Tasting Menu Highlights

• Oyster with Watermelon & Cucurbitaceae – A delicate start that pairs fresh oyster brininess with the sweetness of watermelon and squash-family flavors.
• Yellowtail with Cambuci, Turnip & Seaweed – A fusion of the ocean and Brazilian native fruits, highlighting cambuci’s tartness against buttery fish.
• Crab with Corn & Avocado – A creamy, umami-packed dish that can be elevated with Oscietra caviar for an extra indulgence.
• Pumpkin with Palm Heart & White Curry – A silky, spiced composition featuring Brazilian palm heart and a fragrant white curry sauce.
• Tomato with Eggplant & Yuzu – A balance of acidity and depth, where fermented eggplant and citrusy yuzu create a refreshing bite.
• Squid with Caruncho Pork & Shell Jus Gras – Tender squid meets rich Brazilian pork and a decadent seafood reduction for a bold and layered dish.
• Fish of the Day with Fragrant-Pepper Pil Pil & Asparagus Bean – A tribute to Brazilian spices, this dish elevates fresh fish with a unique pil pil sauce and local vegetables.
• Lamb with Scarlet Eggplant & Watercress – A hearty yet refined dish showcasing Brazil’s diverse produce and a perfectly executed lamb preparation.
• Mango with Pesto & Mate – A tropical and herbaceous combination where Brazilian mate tea adds a bold twist to ripe mango.
• Cocoa with Cardamom & Baru Nut – A sophisticated dessert blending Amazonian cocoa, warm spices, and the nutty richness of Brazil’s native baru nut.

A Sustainable & Immersive Dining Experience

With a deep commitment to sustainability, Tuju sources from local producers, urban gardens, and Amazonian farmers, ensuring that each dish represents Brazil’s natural abundance. Paired with wine or non-alcoholic beverage selections, this tasting menu is a culinary journey through Brazil’s most vibrant flavors, making Tuju a must-visit for food lovers seeking a refined yet conscious dining experience.

Evvai vs. Tuju: A Michelin-Starred Showdown

Both Evvai and Tuju are extraordinary restaurants, fully deserving of their two Michelin stars, and stand among the finest dining experiences I’ve ever had. Each represents a distinct yet equally trailblazing approach to haute cuisine, making them pillars of São Paulo’s gastronomy.

Tuju is the temple of high-end gastronomy in São Paulo—a place where culinary precision meets scientific innovation. The chef is a mad scientist, a master of his craft who constantly explores new techniques and flavors. The restaurant itself is upscale, sleek, and luxurious, the epitome of refined dining. Everything about Tuju exudes the pinnacle of Brazilian fine dining, elevating tradition through cutting-edge execution.

Evvai, on the other hand, delivers just as much luxury but injects it with punk rock energy. Chef Luiz Felipe Souza isn’t just a master in his craft—he’s a rebel pushing the boundaries of fine dining. His approach blends the refinement expected of a two-Michelin-starred restaurant with the raw, expressive energy of David Bowie’s avant-garde style and Warhol’s pop culture influence. His dishes don’t just taste exceptional—they tell a story, break rules, and challenge tradition in the most playful, unexpected ways.

While both restaurants left an incredible impression on me, I slightly preferred Evvai. It wasn’t just about the food—it was the fun, rebellious nature of the experience. Evvai felt like a fine-dining revolution, while Tuju felt like the perfected pinnacle of high-end cuisine. Both chefs are trailblazers in the world of gastronomy, and I have immense respect for their unique approaches to redefining fine dining in Brazil.

Tuju represents the luxury I’ve always embraced, a standard of excellence and precision. But Evvai embodies the spirit I’ve always wanted to live by—breaking norms, respecting tradition while reshaping it, and proving that fine dining can be both punk and Michelin-worthy at the same time.

São Paulo is home to some of the most exciting restaurants in the world, and while I still need to explore D.O.M. and Rio’s fine dining scene, there’s no denying that Tuju and Evvai stand at the forefront of Brazil’s culinary revolution.

Fine dining is more than just food—it’s an immersive journey. My recent experience at Tuju in São Paulo set a new benchmark for what a restaurant can offer, blending art, nature, world-class gastronomy, and award-winning hospitality in a three-level dining adventure.

### Michelin-Star Dining at Tuju São Paulo: A Nature-Inspired Experience
From the moment you step into Tuju, the design captivates you. The space is a seamless fusion of modern architecture and nature, featuring:
✔️ A lush vertical garden creating a serene, almost otherworldly atmosphere
✔️ An open kitchen, allowing guests to witness the magic behind the dishes
✔️ Multi-level dining that transforms the meal into an interactive experience

### Tuju’s Cocktail Bar: House-Made Ingredients & Sustainable Mixology
At Tuju’s bar, the same farm-to-table ethos that defines the kitchen extends into every cocktail. The bar team crafts signature drinks using ingredients sourced directly from the restaurant’s own garden and trusted local producers. Every syrup, infusion, and garnish is made in-house, ensuring zero waste and maximum flavor.

This commitment to sustainability and craft has helped Tuju stand out as a leader in Brazilian mixology. The cocktails reflect the seasonality of ingredients, with flavors that seamlessly complement the tasting menu. Whether it’s a citrus-forward gin infusion or a smoky, barrel-aged creation, the attention to detail is second to none.

### The Ultimate Tuju São Paulo Tasting Menu Experience
#### First Stop: The Bar – A Chilled Start
The experience began downstairs at the bar, where the first course was dramatically served over ice. It was an instant sensory delight—fresh, crisp, and paired with a cocktail that set the tone for what was to come.

#### Main Dining Level: An Artful Tasting Menu
Once seated in the main dining area, the true culinary showcase began. Every dish was stunningly plated, balancing textures and flavors with precision. Standouts included:

🦪 Oyster with Watermelon & Cucurbitaceae – A refreshing and unexpected contrast of briny and fruity notes
🦀 Crab with Avocado, Corn & Caviar – A rich yet delicate dish, further elevated by the optional caviar
🦑 Squid with Caruncho Pork & Shell Jus Gras – A deeply umami-packed dish that was perfectly balanced
🐟 Fish of the Day with Brazilian Pepper Pil Pil & Asparagus Beans – Silky, flavorful, and paired with a natural white wine that cut through the richness
🥩 Lamb with Scarlet Eggplant & Watercress – Bold and earthy, bringing the meal into heartier territory

To wrap up the meal, desserts were served in the main dining area—each dish a work of art with vibrant flavors:

🍨 Mango with Pesto & Mate – A fresh and herbal twist on a tropical sorbet
🍫 Cocoa, Cardamom & Baru Nuts – Served in a cacao pod-shaped bowl, this dessert was a textural masterpiece

#### Final Stop: Rooftop Lounge – The Perfect Ending
After dinner, we were invited up to the rooftop for an elegant closing experience featuring a curated cheese selection and after-dinner drinks. With one side open to the São Paulo skyline, it was the perfect way to let the night linger.

### Seasonal Menu, Wine List & Chef Ivan Ralston
Tuju offers a dynamic and evolving dining experience under the leadership of **Chef Ivan Ralston**. The restaurant’s menu is deeply influenced by the seasonal availability of local ingredients, ensuring that each visit provides a unique culinary journey.

#### Seasonal Menu Changes
Chef Ralston emphasizes the use of seasonal Brazilian products, particularly from the São Paulo region. The tasting menu is determined by the weather conditions of each season, allowing the restaurant to showcase the freshest ingredients. This approach highlights the diversity of Brazilian produce while ensuring constant innovation and sustainability in the menu.

#### Wine List
Tuju boasts an extensive wine list featuring over **5,000 labels**, including a selection of Brazilian varieties. This diverse collection is curated to complement the evolving menu, ensuring that each wine pairing enhances the dining experience. The inclusion of local wines allows guests to explore Brazil’s burgeoning wine industry alongside international classics.

#### Chef Ivan Ralston
Born in São Paulo in 1985, **Chef Ivan Ralston** comes from a family deeply connected to the culinary world. After initially studying music, he shifted his focus to gastronomy, training at esteemed institutions and working in renowned kitchens such as **El Celler de Can Roca** and **Mugaritz** in Spain, and **RyuGin** in Tokyo. In 2014, he returned to Brazil to open Tuju, where he combines his international experience with a passion for responsible sourcing.

The restaurant features **in-house organic gardens cultivating over 200 species of unconventional edible plants**, many of which are used creatively in the dishes. Chef Ralston’s culinary philosophy honors the cosmopolitan nature of São Paulo, drawing influences from various cultures, including **Japanese, Italian, Spanish, and Jewish**, as well as regions across Brazil. This diverse inspiration is evident in Tuju’s menu, which evolves to reflect the seasons and the chef’s ongoing research into local ingredients.

### Tuju São Paulo’s Awards: Michelin Stars & Top Culinary Accolades
Tuju’s reputation as one of São Paulo’s most prestigious fine dining destinations is well-earned. Its dedication to hospitality, sustainability, and innovation has led to multiple accolades:

🏆 **Gin Mare Art of Hospitality Award (2024)** – Recognized by *Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants* for outstanding service
⭐ **Two Michelin Stars (2024)** – Awarded in the *Michelin Guide Rio de Janeiro & São Paulo*, a testament to Tuju’s world-class culinary achievements
🥇 **Brazil’s Best Restaurant (2024)** – Voted **Best Restaurant in Brazil** by the *World Culinary Awards*, further cementing its legacy

### Is Tuju São Paulo Worth It? Final Thoughts on This Michelin-Starred Restaurant
Tuju delivered one of the most immersive, visually stunning, and well-curated dining experiences I’ve had. From the progressive journey across three levels to the artistic plating, innovative cocktails, and bold wine pairings, every detail was perfection.

⭐ **If you’re in São Paulo and want a next-level fine dining experience, Tuju is a must.**

Introduction: A Two Michelin-Starred Culinary Masterpiece

When it comes to fine dining in São Paulo, few restaurants can match the artistry, creativity, and execution of Evvai. Led by Chef Luiz Filipe Souza, this two Michelin-starred restaurant seamlessly blends Italian techniques with Brazilian ingredients, delivering an unforgettable tasting menu.

With its Oriundi Menu, Evvai is more than just a meal—it’s an immersive storytelling experience that engages all the senses. Every course is a visual and culinary masterpiece, making this my best dining experience in São Paulo to date.

The Ambiance: Where Culinary Theater Comes to Life

If you’re searching for an elevated dining experience in São Paulo, Evvai delivers from the moment you walk in.

• Open kitchen concept – Watch the culinary artistry unfold in real time.
• Refined yet warm interiors – Deep navy tones, wood accents, and contemporary details create a sophisticated setting.
• Art-inspired storytelling – Every dish is presented with a custom-designed illustration, inspired by Brazilian pop culture, fine art, and gastronomy.

Evvai blends modern fine dining with deep cultural roots, making it a top restaurant in São Paulo for food lovers and luxury travelers.

The Oriundi Menu: A Michelin-Starred Tasting Experience

1. Açaí and Bluefin Tuna Granita – A Bold Start

Evvai reimagines açaí, Brazil’s most famous fruit, pairing it with granita made from Bluefin tuna. This dish is a refreshing contrast of temperatures and umami flavors, setting the stage for an exceptional menu.

2. Tacacá Tortellini – A Journey to the Amazon

Inspired by Northern Brazilian cuisine, this dish reinterprets Tacacá, a traditional broth made with tucupi and jambu. At Evvai, it’s transformed into delicate codfish-stuffed tortellini, delivering bold flavors with a subtle numbing effect from jambu.

3. Pupunha Tan – A Pantone-Inspired Dish

Served with a Pantone-style color card, this dish plays with color, texture, and flavor. A tribute to Brazilian pupunha (heart of palm), it is paired with almonds and mullet bottarga, creating an elegant, umami-rich dish.

4. Bocuse d’Or Inspired Catch of the Day

A homage to Chef Luiz Filipe Souza’s Bocuse d’Or 2019 dish, this seafood course features a cryogenically frozen jambu flower, which adds a cooling, electrifying sensation. The balance of herbs, acidity, and seafood umami makes this one of the most innovative dishes on the menu.

5. Wagyu & Pumpkin Bresaola – A Fusion of Italy & Brazil

Brazilian Wagyu beef, cured using traditional Italian bresaola techniques, meets fermented pumpkin, resulting in a dish that is both bold and delicately balanced.

6. Bean Soup and Cotechino – A Nostalgic Tribute

One of the most playful dishes, this course arrives with a Warhol-inspired Campbell’s soup illustration labeled “Feijão com Cotechino”. The silky bean soup, combined with Italian cotechino sausage and a touch of coffee, delivers depth, warmth, and nostalgia.

Cocktails & Pairings: A Must-Try at Evvai

If you’re planning a visit to Evvai São Paulo, don’t just go for the wine pairing—explore the cocktail menu as well.

• Go for the full wine pairing – The curated selection of biodynamic wines and vintage pairings enhances the experience.
• Let the bartender craft a custom cocktail – Evvai’s mixologists create bespoke drinks tailored to your tastes, making it worth trying a cocktail alongside the wine selection.
• Signature Cocktails – Highlights include the Pantalone (Cognac, Cointreau Noir, Campari, and beetroot) and a gold-leaf cocktail, adding a touch of luxury to the evening.

This dual approach—wine pairing + customized cocktails—ensures you get the full Michelin-starred dining experience.

About Evvai & Chef Luiz Filipe Souza

Why Evvai Is One of São Paulo’s Best Restaurants

Evvai has secured its place as one of São Paulo’s top fine-dining destinations, earning two Michelin stars and ranking #20 in Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants.

Meet Chef Luiz Filipe Souza

• Trained at top Italian restaurants, including Fasano, Piselli (São Paulo), and Reale Casadonna (Italy).
• Opened Evvai in 2017, pioneering “Oriundi cuisine”, which fuses Italian techniques with Brazilian ingredients.
• Bocuse d’Or 2019 finalist, competing in Lyon, France—an achievement that helped shape Evvai’s innovative approach.
• Earned Evvai its second Michelin star in 2024, solidifying its place as one of the best restaurants in São Paulo.

Final Thoughts: A Memorable Culinary Experience

While São Paulo is home to many outstanding fine-dining establishments, Evvai has been my favorite dining experience so far. The combination of creativity, technical precision, and cultural storytelling makes it an experience I would highly recommend to any food lover.

Evvai truly stands out as a remarkable dining experience in São Paulo. From its flawless execution to its immersive storytelling and innovative flavors, this restaurant offers something unique for fine dining enthusiasts and culinary explorers alike.

For those seeking a Michelin-starred experience that pushes boundaries while respecting tradition, Evvai is a must-visit.

Would you visit Evvai São Paulo? Let me know in the comments!