Proa Cozinha Bar in Baixo Gávea: prices, menu, and our full experience
Rio de Janeiro is a city where gastronomy has a strong connection with the sea. Not only because of the famous beaches, but also because of the culinary culture that values fresh fish, seafood, and flavors inspired by different coastal regions of the world.
Among the restaurants that represent this proposal very well is the Proa Cozinha Bar, located in Baixo Gávea. Since its opening in 2020, the place has been winning customers with the combination of a relaxed atmosphere, creative cuisine, and fresh ingredients sourced directly from the sea.
The restaurant was born with the idea of bringing to Rio de Janeiro a gastronomic experience inspired by the coastal regions of Brazil and the world, with dishes that mix references to places like Noronha, Mexico, Indonesia, and Búzios. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
In this comprehensive guide you will discover:
- What the restaurant environment is like
- How much it costs to eat at Proa
- The main dishes on the menu
- Our experience at the venue
- If it’s really worth visiting
If you’re planning to explore more of Rio’s gastronomy, it’s worth checking out our main city guide as well:
👉 See also our complete guide to Rio de Janeiro.
Where is Proa Cozinha Bar
Proa Cozinha Bar is located at Praça Santos Dumont, 120, in Baixo Gávea, one of the liveliest areas of Rio’s South Zone.
This part of the city is famous for its mix of bars, restaurants and vibrant nightlife. At night, especially on weekends, Baixo Gávea becomes a true meeting point for locals, students, and tourists.
The restaurant occupies a charming house that blends a modern environment with sea references. The aim is to offer an experience that blends the informality of a bar with the quality of a contemporary seafood-focused kitchen. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
The hours typically follow the following schedule:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 12:00 to 00:00
- Friday and Saturday: 12:00 to 01:00
- Sunday: 12:00 to 00:00
- Monday: closed
👉 Also check out our guide to safety in Rio de Janeiro.
The history of Proa Cozinha Bar
The restaurant was created by chef Joana Carvalho, also known for Jojö Bistrô in Horto. Proa’s idea arose from the desire to create a restaurant where the sea would be the protagonist of the gastronomic experience.
The very name “Proa” refers to the bow of a boat, reinforcing the restaurant’s maritime concept.
From the beginning, the restaurant sought to work with fresh ingredients, prioritizing high-quality fish and respecting the sea’s seasonality.
This philosophy appears not only on the menu but also in how the dishes are presented: simple, elegant and focused on the flavor of the ingredients.
Ambience and decoration
Upon arriving at Proa Cozinha Bar, the first impression is of a charming and welcoming restaurant.
The decor blends nautical elements with a contemporary style. Wood, soft lighting, and details that evoke the maritime universe help create an atmosphere reminiscent of seaside restaurants.
The space is divided into different environments:
- Main Hall
- Outside Area
- Second-floor veranda
This veranda, by the way, is one of the most pleasant places in the restaurant, especially at night.
There the mood is calmer, with soft lighting and tables ideal for a more relaxed dinner.
Atmosphere of Baixo Gávea
Part of the experience of visiting Proa is also tied to the neighborhood.
Baixo Gávea is one of the most traditional spots in Rio’s nightlife. The area brings together bars, restaurants, and many people moving through the streets, creating a vibrant and relaxed atmosphere.
It’s common to see groups of friends gathering, people drinking beer at outdoor tables, and a constant buzz throughout the night.
Therefore, visiting Proa Cozinha Bar can easily be combined with a culinary tour of the area.
If you’re planning a city itinerary, also check out:
Itinerary near the restaurant
If you’re in Gávea, it’s worth taking the opportunity to explore other nearby attractions:
- Jockey Club Brasileiro
- Gávea Shopping
- Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon
- Catacumba Park
👉 Also see posts to Plan Your Trip in Rio de Janeiro
- What to Do in Rio de Janeiro: Complete Guide with Itineraries, Beaches, Museums and Experiences
- Restaurants in Rio de Janeiro: Complete Guide to Eating Well in 2026
- Rio de Janeiro Beaches: Complete Guide with Tips, Safety and Where to Go
- events in Rio de Janeiro
- trip planning
Video of the experience
Also check out our full video showing the restaurant and dishes:
Our experience at Proa Cozinha Bar
Our visit to the restaurant was excellent.
We ordered:
- Fresh oysters
- Melting octopus
- Shrimp risotto
- Soft drinks
The octopus was extremely tender and well-seasoned. The shrimp risotto was also delicious, with a strong seafood flavor.
The service was fast and very friendly.
All in all, our bill came to about R$170 for two people, which we considered good value for the area.
Commitment to fresh ingredients
One of Proa’s kitchen pillars is to work with fresh fish and high-quality ingredients.
Many of the fish and seafood used on the menu arrive at the restaurant almost every day, ensuring flavors and textures far superior to frozen products.
This focus on ingredient quality makes a big difference in the final result of the dishes.
And this is especially evident in dishes with shrimp, octopus, and fresh fish.
Proa Cozinha Bar menu
Proa Cozinha Bar’s menu is centered mainly on fish and seafood. The house’s approach is to work with fresh ingredients and dishes inspired by different coastal regions of the world, including culinary references from Noronha, Mexico, Indonesia, and Búzios. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
This means the menu blends Brazilian classics with international influences, creating very interesting combinations.
Starters and snacks
Starters are one of the restaurant’s strengths. Many customers end up starting the experience by ordering some options to share at the table.
- Krupuk with Avocado and Roe — R$ 49
Crispy cassava-based delight served with avocado mayonnaise and flying fish roe. - Crab Panel with Levain Bread — R$ 65
The crab is served in a creamy pot accompanied by levain bread. - Shrimp Full Moon Pastries — R$ 45
Three pastries filled with about 120g of shrimp and Caiçara-inspired seasonings. - Fish and Chips — R$ 59
Breaded fish served with fries and tartar sauce. - Seafood Pot — R$ 63
A mix of seafood prepared with aromatic broth and bold seasonings.
These starters clearly reflect the restaurant’s concept: simple dishes, but with bold flavors and fresh ingredients.
Sandwiches and quick dishes
In addition to the main dishes, Proa also offers some more casual options, perfect for grazing or a lighter meal.
Fresh Tuna Sandwich — R$ 65
Fresh tuna breaded in panko with sesame, crispy onions and tartar sauce served on rustic bread. The dish comes with sweet potato chips.
Fish and Shrimp Fishburguer — R$ 63
Burger made with fish and shrimp served on organic bread with cilantro mayonnaise.
These options are very popular around lunchtime.
Main dishes
In the main courses, the restaurant shows its full culinary potential. The kitchen works with recipes that highlight seafood ingredients and simple techniques that emphasize the natural flavor of the foods.
- Melting Octopus — about R$ 89 to R$ 91
Grilled octopus with rustic potatoes. - Tagliatelle with Shrimp and Moqueca Sauce — R$ 81
Fresh pasta served with grilled shrimp and a sauce inspired by Brazilian moqueca. - Shrimp Bobó — R$ 79
Classic Brazilian dish made with organic cassava and dendê from Bahia, served with rice and farofa. - Shrimp Curry — about R$ 84
Shrimp prepared in a mildly spicy curry sauce served with rice and sweet plantain puree. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} - Semi-Grilled Tuna — about R$ 79
Fish served with light and fresh sides.
The octopus and shrimp bobó are among the restaurant’s most requested dishes.
Vegetarian options
Even though it’s a seafood-focused restaurant, Proa also offers some vegetarian alternatives.
Plantain Moqueca — R$ 59
Dish served with rice and dendê farofa.
This option is quite popular among customers who do not eat fish or meat.
Kids menu
For those visiting the restaurant with children, there are also some simple options on the kids’ menu.
Spaghetti with roasted meat — R$ 43
Can be served with white sauce or tomato sauce.
Drinks and beverages
Proa Cozinha Bar also has an interesting drinks menu.
The drinks combine classic recipes with some original creations.
- Moscow Mule — R$ 35
- Caipirinha with seasonal fruits — R$ 35
- Perfect Manhattan — about R$ 34
- Hendrick’s Gin and Tonic — R$ 65
The house also offers wines, sparkling wines, and draft beer.
Service and hospitality
Another highly praised aspect by customers is the service.
The staff typically explains the dishes well and suggests interesting pairings between food and drinks.
According to visitor reviews, the service is attentive and the atmosphere has a relaxed and welcoming vibe. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Additionally, the venue features different environments, including a second-floor terrace that tends to be quite popular at night.
Sustainability and conscious fishing
One of Proa Cozinha Bar’s pillars is working with ingredients sourced from responsible fishing.
The restaurant aims to prioritize local fishermen and respect seafood seasonality, avoiding species during breeding periods.
This commitment is part of chef Joana Carvalho’s philosophy, who values fresh ingredients and the preservation of marine resources.
How much it costs to eat at Proa Cozinha Bar
Prices at the restaurant can be considered mid-range for Rio de Janeiro’s South Zone.
A complete meal typically falls in the following range:
- Starter: R$45 to R$65
- Main course: R$79 to R$91
- Drink: R$35 to R$65
Overall, a dinner with starter, main course, and a drink tends to cost between R$120 and R$180 per person.
Is it worth visiting Proa Cozinha Bar?
Yes, especially if you enjoy seafood-focused restaurants and a relaxed atmosphere.
Proa manages to balance three key points well:
- great cuisine
- fresh ingredients
- the informal Rio vibe
It’s an excellent option for those looking to explore the South Zone’s dining scene beyond the traditional Copacabana and Ipanema restaurants.
Useful information
Address
Praça Santos Dumont, 120 – Gávea – Rio de Janeiro
Phone
(21) 3449-4450
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/proacozinhabar/
Opening hours
- Tuesday to Thursday: 12:00 to 00:00
- Friday and Saturday: 12:00 to 01:00
- Sunday: 12:00 to 00:00
- Monday: closed
Frequently asked questions
Does Proa Cozinha Bar take reservations?
Yes, it is recommended to book especially on weekends.
Does the restaurant have vegetarian options?
Yes, such as the plantain moqueca.
Is the environment good for groups?
Yes, the restaurant is quite frequented by groups of friends.
Is the restaurant expensive?
Prices are in line with South Rio’s restaurants.
Conclusion
Proa Cozinha Bar is one of Baixo Gávea’s most interesting restaurants for seafood lovers and a relaxed atmosphere.
With a creative menu, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere, the restaurant offers a gastronomic experience that blends flavor, informality, and Carioca identity.
If you’re exploring Rio de Janeiro’s gastronomy, it’s definitely worth including Proa in your itinerary.
Receive more tips about Rio
Want to discover amazing restaurants, tours, and events in Rio?
👉 Subscribe to our newsletter
👉 Join our WhatsApp channel: Viagens e Lugares WhatsApp Channel
About The Author
