Belo Horizonte has a reputation — even among Brazilians — for its bar culture. The locals love their bars, and the city has thousands of them, from simple boteco joints serving draft beer and petiscos to upscale cocktail spots. The Savassi neighborhood is the center of the action, with a high concentration of bars and an active scene that peaks on weekends.
Beyond Savassi, you will find pockets of nightlife spread across the city. The Belvedere neighborhood has some popular spots, and the downtown area fills up on Friday evenings. The city also has a visible and welcoming gay and lesbian scene reflected in its nightlife.
For something sweet, look for the padarias (bakeries) that double as cafes — Casa Bonomi Padificadora on Rua Rio Grande in Savassi serves excellent light meals alongside its baked goods. Badejo and A Bella Torta, also on Rua Rio Grande, are reliable choices for a meal or a drink.