Espaço Lapa Café

In the heart of Lapa but a little off the main drinking and dancing circuit, this lively cafe-bar-cultural center is a top spot for a daytime coffee and cakes or a night time drink and a spin on the artfully-appointed dance floor. The list of craft beers - including the house-brewed 'Cerveja da Lapa' is one of the most extensive in the city, and the cocktails go well beyond the standard caipirinha. The extensive space inside a refurbished colonial mansion also houses a gallery showcasing the works of talented local artists, and regular live music events span a varied musical spectrum that attracts a mixed-age, mixed-nationality crowd. The vibe is laid back and cool without being pretentious, and feels a little less manic than many Lapa hangouts - it closes early by local standards, too, making this a good place to start the night.