Cozinha Aberta

We made the trip to Lencois and Chapada Diamantina for the nature, beauty and hiking. We weren't expecting to be blown away by exceptional cuisine, much less the exceptional international cuisine we found at Cozinha Aberta. Cozinha Aberta offers a wonderful menu of Thai, Italian and Indian dishes prepared with organic and local ingredients and high quality imported ingredients. The owner of the restaurant spent a good deal of time abroad and learned a lot about food and other cultures' approaches to preparing food. She brought back these experiences from her travels to Brazil and started an excellent restaurant in Lencois.

There are two branches of this restaurant, both are in the heart of Lencois and easy to find. We first checked out the smaller of the two restaurants which is located in a small green house. It was small and cozy with just a few tables and an open kitchen. The coconut chicken and Pad Thai were amazing. The next day we went to the other branch. It had a sign in front advertising its "Slow Food" and it was much larger than the other restaurant. It had the same beautiful rustic feel as the other restaurant and an open kitchen. There is also outdoor seating in the back with potted plants, lights, and candles that add to the ambiance. That night we were intrigued by the handmade pasta the chef was making as we walked in and we both ordered pasta. Once again, the food was excellent and very fresh.

When you dine at Cozinha Aberta, you can taste the love and care that is put into making the food. The staff is friendly and efficient. If you make the trip to Lencois and Chapada Diamantina, I highly recommend this restaurant. It's a great way to end a long day of hiking and exploration!