Touring Building in Rio de Janeiro: the historic building that became the new gastronomic hub of Mauá Square (2026)
If you’ve been wandering around downtown Rio or following the news about the revitalization of the port area, you’ve probably heard of the Touring Building Rio de Janeiro. An icon of Carioca Art Deco, the centennial building has just reopened its doors as the new gastronomic hub of Rio de Janeiro, bringing together bars, restaurants and music on three floors, right in the heart of Mauá Square, next to the Museum of Tomorrow.
And the most curious thing: the Touring Building is not just any old building. It was designed by the same architect of the Copacabana Palace, of the Glória Hotel and of the A Noite Building. In other words, history, architecture and now good food all in one address.
In this post, I’ll tell you the story of the Touring Building, what works there today, how much it costs to eat at the new complex, whether it’s worth visiting, the best times, common mistakes and practical tips — all in that straightforward, light, and Carioca chat, for you to decide whether to add the place to your list.
⚠️ Attention: hours, menus and cultural programming can change. Always check the official channels of the establishments and of the Touring Building itself before you go.
Where is the Touring Building Rio de Janeiro
The Touring Building is located in Mauá Square, one of the areas that has transformed the most in Rio in recent years.
Address:
Mauá Square – Centro, Rio de Janeiro – RJ
It is literally a few steps from attractions such as:
- Museum of Tomorrow
- Museum of the Art of Rio (MAR)
- Olympic Boulevard
👉 If you’re planning a downtown itinerary, it’s also worth checking our full guide:
Rio de Janeiro: complete guide of attractions and travel tips
The history of the Touring Building Rio de Janeiro
An Art Deco icon since 1928
Inaugurated in 1928, the Touring Building is one of the first and most important examples of Art Deco in Rio de Janeiro. The project is signed by the French architect Joseph Gire, the same responsible for some of the city’s most emblematic buildings.
Among Joseph Gire’s works in Rio are:
- Copacabana Palace
- Hotel Glória
- Edifício A Noite
In other words, the Touring was born big.
For decades, the building housed the Touring Club of Brazil, a national reference in automotive services and tourism. After years closed and off the public radar, the building underwent a revitalization process and now returns to occupy its place as a Carioca meeting point.
Preserved architecture (and that’s a show in itself)
One of the best surprises of the new Touring Building is the absolute respect for its original architecture.
Highlights:
- Original stained glass right at the entrance
- Imposing columns
- Crystal chandeliers
- Clock Tower preserved
The main stained glass depicts the arrival of the Portuguese to Brazil, with caravels, Guanabara Bay and the Rio relief — a true historic postcard.
💡 Carioca tip: arrive during the day to observe the architectural details calmly before sitting down to eat.
The new gastronomic hub of the Touring Building Rio de Janeiro
Three floors of food, drink and music
The one who gave new life to the Touring was businessman Antonio Rodrigues, of Grupo Belmonte. The idea was clear: create a gastronomic hub that dialogued with the revitalization of Mauá Square, blending tradition and novelty.
Today, the Touring Building operates like this:
🟡 Ground floor
- Belmonte Bar – classic Carioca
- Azumi – Japanese restaurant
🟠 Second floor
- Il Piccolo – traditional Italian restaurant, with a more sophisticated vibe
🔵 Third floor
- Acervo Gastrobar – authorial concept, creative drinks and music
Additionally, on weekends, there is a special breakfast with products from Padaria Ipanema, served right at the entrance.
How much does it cost to eat at the Touring Building? (average prices)
💰 Approximate values in 2026. They may vary depending on day and time.
| Establishment | Main course | Drinks | Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Belmonte Bar | R$ 45 – R$ 80 | R$ 20 – R$ 35 | Casual |
| Azumi | R$ 70 – R$ 140 | R$ 30 – R$ 45 | Japanese |
| Il Piccolo | R$ 90 – R$ 160 | R$ 30 – R$ 50 | Italian |
| Acervo Gastrobar | R$ 60 – R$ 120 | R$ 35 – R$ 55 | Contemporary |
💡 Real tip: the Touring isn’t cheap, but it’s also not out of reach of Rio’s current reality — especially considering location, facilities, and experience.
Is it worth visiting the Touring Building?
✅ It’s worth it if you:
- Love gastronomy
- Appreciate historical architecture
- Want to discover Rio’s new things
- Will stroll Mauá Square
- Seek different programs in the downtown area
❌ Maybe it’s not ideal if you:
- Looking for very cheap options
- Want absolute silence at night
- Don’t like crowded environments
📌 Honest summary: the Touring has become a new Rio hotspot, especially for those who like to combine food, culture and history.
Best time to go
- Lunch: calmer, ideal to enjoy the space
- Happy hour: starts to fill
- Evening (Friday and Saturday): more lively
👉 To pair with other programs in the region, see:
Passeios fora do óbvio no Rio de Janeiro
https://viagenselugaress.com/passeios-fora-do-obvio-rio-de-janeiro/
How to get to the Touring Building Rio de Janeiro
🚇 Public transport
- VLT: Museum of Tomorrow Stop
- Metro: Uruguaiana Station + VLT
🚗 Car / Uber
- Easy access, but parking in the area is limited
👉 Plan your trips better:
How to use public transport in Rio de Janeiro safely
Common mistakes by visitors
- Go without a reservation at night
- Arrive just to eat and not look at the building
- Ignore peak hours
- Don’t pair the visit with the Museum of Tomorrow or MAR
Final tips (from someone who has been there)
- Take it slow
- Explore the floors
- Pair with a stroll along Orla Conde
- Check the musical schedule
- Always check official channels
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Touring Building in Rio de Janeiro?
In Mauá Square, downtown Rio, next to the Museum of Tomorrow.
Is the Touring Building old?
Yes. It was inaugurated in 1928 and is one of the Art Deco icons of the city.
Which restaurants operate in the Touring Building?
Belmonte, Azumi, Il Piccolo and Acervo Gastrobar.
Do you need to reserve?
For dinner and weekends, it is highly recommended.
Is it worth visiting during the day?
Yes, especially to see the historical architecture.
Conclusion
The Touring Building Rio de Janeiro proves that the city knows how to reinvent itself without erasing its history. Transformed into the new gastronomic hub of Mauá Square, the building brings together architecture, memory and good food at one of the city’s most symbolic addresses.
If you like new things, culture and good places to eat, the Touring deserves, yes, to be on your itinerary.
👉 Continue exploring Rio:
Where to stay in Rio de Janeiro: complete guide
https://viagenselugaress.com/onde-ficar-no-rio-de-janeiro/
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