Rio de Janeiro is a street food paradise — and vegans are definitely invited to the feast. From savory snacks to refreshing treats, the city’s vibrant food scene has plenty to offer plant-based travelers.

Curious about what to try and where to find it? Let’s dive into the most delicious vegan street foods you can eat while exploring Rio’s lively streets and beaches.

What are the best vegan street foods to try in Rio?

Here are 7 unmissable plant-based snacks you’ll find on the go:

1. Açaí na tigela

Açaí bowls are a refreshing and nutritious treat made from frozen açaí berries, often blended with bananas or other fruits. Topped with granola, fresh fruits, and sometimes a drizzle of agave syrup, it’s a perfect vegan snack to beat the heat.
Where to try: Juice bars and beach vendors in Ipanema and Copacabana.

2. Tapioca

Tapioca crepes are made from tapioca flour and can be filled with a variety of vegan ingredients. Popular vegan fillings include coconut and banana, avocado and tomato, or vegan cheese and spinach. These gluten-free crepes are chewy and delicious.
Where to try: Street markets and beach kiosks.

3. Milho verde

Milho verde, or green corn, is a simple and tasty vegan street food. The corn is usually grilled or boiled and served with a sprinkle of salt. It’s a healthy and satisfying snack that’s perfect for enjoying while exploring the city.
Where to try: Beach vendors and open-air markets.

4. Bolinho de aipim

These cassava fritters are a vegan-friendly snack made from mashed cassava, herbs, and spices. They are deep-fried to a golden brown, creating a crispy exterior with a soft, flavorful inside. Sometimes stuffed with vegetables, they are a savory treat.
Where to try: Local bars (botecos) and street stands.

5. Vegan feijão tropeiro

While traditional feijão tropeiro includes meat, vegan versions are available at some street food stands and restaurants. This dish consists of black beans mixed with cassava flour, garlic, onions, and spices, offering a hearty and flavorful option.
Where to try: Vegan-friendly street vendors and local eateries.

6. Caldo de cana

Caldo de cana, or sugarcane juice, is a refreshing and natural vegan beverage. The juice is extracted from fresh sugarcane stalks and served over ice. It’s a perfect way to stay hydrated and enjoy a sweet treat.
Where to try: Juice stalls and street vendors throughout Rio.

7. Vegan pamonha

Pamonha is a traditional Brazilian dish made from fresh corn, grated and mixed with coconut milk, then wrapped in corn husks and boiled. Vegan versions omit any animal products, resulting in a sweet and creamy treat.
Where to try: Food fairs and traditional markets.

Is Rio a vegan-friendly city?

Absolutely — especially if you know where to look. The city has an expanding vegan scene, with dedicated restaurants, street food options, and useful apps like Happy Cow to help you find them. From Ipanema to Lapa, you’ll be surprised by how many delicious choices are available.

How do I find vegan street food in Rio?

Look out for suco stands (juice bars), beach vendors, street fairs, and local botecos — especially in neighborhoods like Copacabana, Ipanema, and Santa Teresa. Many stalls are happy to adjust ingredients if you ask, and apps like Happy Cow can point you to vegan-friendly spots.

Final Tips for Vegan Travelers in Rio

Ask for ingredients: Not all vendors label vegan items — it’s worth confirming.
Use “sem leite” and “sem carne” to say “without milk” or “without meat.”
Carry snacks if you’re heading to less touristy areas.
Check out food festivals, where pamonha, tapioca, and caldo de cana are often sold in their plant-based versions.

Ready to taste the plant-based flavors of Rio?
I’m team pamonha all the way — what about you? Drop your favorites in the comments! And if you’re curious about Rio’s other delicious (non-vegan) street eats, check out my Foodie’s Guide to Street Food in Rio.

Vegan in Rio? Here’s what to eat on the streets