Ernestinho Carioca
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Contemporary bar · Cocktails · Botafogo

Xepa

I like Xepa as an example of how Botafogo transformed the neighbourhood bar: it keeps the street’s informality but explores cuisine, Brazilian ingredients and cocktails more deeply.

AreaBotafogo
StatusActive
Hours / programmeTue–Thu noon–1 am · Fri–Sat noon–2 am · Sun noon–midnight according to recent data; Riotur lists a slightly later opening Tue–Thu.

Why I include it

It stands on a Rua Arnaldo Quintela corner, with beach chairs and a deliberately informal look. Riotur highlights pork-belly crackling, pastéis and cocktails with house-made sodas and syrups; Veja Rio confirmed prices and operation in June 2026.

To share, I would start by checking the petisco menu: Riotur highlights pork belly crackling and pastéis, while VEJA’s review describes the Bangu chicken wings and chapadinha de cebola. If you want a more distinctive drink, the same review mentions the Marajó, made with açaí jambuzada. VEJA says it checked prices in June 2026; confirm the current menu before you go.

How to experience it

I would use it both to start the night and for a full food-and-cocktail outing. It opens at noon on weekends, so it can become an afternoon plan that later connects with other Botafogo bars.

My Ernestinho tip

It is practically at the heart of the Arnaldo Quintela circuit. For bar hopping, short walks between venues make sense, while staying aware of your surroundings and keeping your phone out of sight.

The experience

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