It’s a fitting sequel to one of Rio’s top restaurants, namely Gero restaurant by the Fasano family that’s been a Lagoa hotspot for years. Departing from their moody redbrick ways, the family enlists star Brazilian architect Isay Weinfeld to create a modernist palace of high ceilings, poured concrete floors and leather-clad antiques from national designers. The main dining room is a bright and airy space capture under slatted teak ceiling with open concept bar facing a seating area of large circular tables and perimeter banquettes.
The Food
Depending on where you stay in Rio, you may tire of the various Fasano outposts that can enwrap your day morning through night in the family-owned locales. But Gero is hard to top for lunch or dinner, with appetizer courses of exquisite homemade burrata followed by carpaccio of salmon or octopus and bresaola. Courses of risotto or pasta include delicate stuffed options or occasional truffle or squash blossom accompaniments in lieu of seafood or slow-cooked meats. Main course takes the best of Brazilian and European cuts of meat for classic filet mignon, sautéed chicken fresh seafood dishes.
Last Word
Fasano family does second Gero restaurant in Rio’s Barra da Tijuca.
