Nova Capela may not be as glitzy as other attractions in Lapa, Rio's historic district turned into a nightlife hub. Unlike Carioca da Gema and Estrela da Lapa, on the same street, and Rio Scenarium, a little farther, on Rua do Lavradio, Nova Capela has no live music.
However, while other Lapa attractions are recent enterprises installed in historic buildings, Nova Capela is a venerable Rio de Janeiro institution which started out in Largo da Lapa in 1923 and moved to its current address in 1969, when the original building was demolished.
Nova Capela is usually busy. Call at 4pm to get some information and there's a din. Walk in at 1am and you'll find groups of friends having a full dinner and draft beer. The place is open 18 hours a day, every day.
When Rio locals are done partying and dancing samba in Lapa, they often walk to Nova Capela instead of reordering food at the casas de shows, even though they stay open till the last customer leaves.
One of the reasons is that Nova Capela is considered a leader in what Brazilians call baixa gastronomia ("low cuisine"), which can be translated simply as bar food.
In its 2008 edition, one of the most prestigious travel publications in Brazil – yearly Guia Quatro Rodas, by Editora Abril – singled out Nova Capela's lamb with broccoli rice and garlic as the best bar dish in Rio de Janeiro.
If even after dancing the night away you're not up for a full dinner, try this Guide's suggestion for a snack that's a surefire hit: a codfish cake, or bolinho de bacalhau (about $2).
This Rio specialty is perfect at Nova Capela, with finely shredded codfish. It's so fresh and crisp, you'll (almost) forget it's deep fried.
Avenida Mem de Sá 96
Lapa
Rio de Janeiro - RJ
21-2252-6228
Daily 11a-5a
