João Pessoa has a strong regional food culture centred on northeast Brazilian staples. Carne de sol (sun-dried beef) cooked on the grill and served with manteiga de garrafa (clarified butter), feijão verde (fresh cowpeas), and macaxeira (cassava) is the classic meal of the interior and is found at most traditional restaurants in the city. Along the beach promenade at Tambaú, kiosks and open-air restaurants serve fresh seafood, particularly grilled lobster, crab, and fried fish.
The Tambaú and Manaíra neighbourhoods along the beachfront have the widest range of restaurants. The historic centre is quieter at lunchtime but has some good lunch spots near the Lagoa park.