Exploring São Paulo's Cultural Hotspots: A Guide by Brazilian Architect and Gallerist Ahead of Bienal de São Paulo

Exploring São Paulo's Cultural Hotspots: A Guide by Brazilian Architect and Gallerist Ahead of Bienal de São Paulo

Exploring São Paulo: A Guide to Design, Food, and Culture

São Paulo, Brazil's largest city, is a vibrant hub of design, food, and culture. Here are top recommendations from designer Isabela Milagre that highlight the city's cutting-edge design, exceptional culinary craftsmanship, and cultural immersion.

Design

Visit the Lucas Recchia Studio in Pinheiros to witness the design process of one of Brazil's most prominent contemporary designers. The studio showcases experimental prototypes and upcoming pieces, offering a rare insider look into innovative Brazilian design.

Food and Ambience

Cozinha 212, also in Pinheiros, is a must-visit spot for its excellent Brazilian cuisine. Favored for its fresh seafood and wine, particularly oysters, the restaurant is housed in a beautifully designed space by the MNMA architecture studio. The design highlights Brazilian marble and craftsmanship, making it a sensory delight beyond just food.

Cultural Experience

Explore São Paulo's vibrant cultural scene by engaging with its renowned art landmarks. While specific sites are not detailed here, Isabela emphasizes the city's artistic energy as a key part of the experience.

Other Notable Mentions

• Ibirapuera Park, designed for the city's centenary and involving a team of architects, urbanists, and landscape designers, including Master Oscar Niemeyer, is a large urban park hosting various events such as yoga classes, art events, and the Bienal de São Paulo.
• The Museum of Art of São Paulo (MASP) recently inaugurated a new extension designed by METRO Arquitetos.

São Paulo is also home to Bossa Furniture, a collectible design platform run by Isabela Milagre. The platform showcases groundbreaking designers whose biography interweaves with Brazil's largest city. Bossa Furniture, launched in 2017 in Brazil and coming to the US in 2024, is a place to discover new designers and make São Paulo a hub for creativity in art, craftsmanship, and decor.

Yes I am Jeans is another independent and inspiring brand known for high-quality, well-priced, and stylish products. The clothing store can be found at R. Artur de Azevedo, 1304 - Pinheiros, São Paulo and R. Dr. Melo Alves, 417 - Jardins, São Paulo.

The Bienal de São Paulo, one of the world's best cultural events, takes place from September 6-January 11, 2026. Casa Iramaia by Mendes Wood DM, a restored 1950s residence turned exhibition space, is also worth a visit.

For a unique dining experience, head to Cozinha 212 at R. dos Pinheiros, 174 - Pinheiros, São Paulo. This restaurant, designed by MNMA architecture studio, offers more than just great food – it's a sensory delight that embodies the spirit of São Paulo.

[1] Source: Isabela Milagre's Insider Guide to São Paulo.

1. Exploring the studio of designer Lucas Recchia in Pinheiros offers a glimpse into the innovative process of one of Brazil's top contemporary designers, showcasing experimental prototypes and upcoming pieces.
2. Cozinha 212, situated in Pinheiros, is a standout spot for its exceptional Brazilian cuisine and sophisticated ambiance, designed by MNMA architecture studio, with a focus on Brazilian marble and craftsmanship that makes it a sensory delight beyond just food.
3. For those seeking a cultural experience, São Paulo's vibrant art scene, highlighted by landmarks such as the Bienal de Saõ Paulo, exemplifies the city's artistic energy and dynamic environment.
4. Bossa Furniture, a collectible design platform curated by designer Isabela Milagre, presents groundbreaking designers whose biography is intertwined with São Paulo, making it a hub for creativity in art, craftsmanship, and decor.

Read also: