Parajuru is a small, local fishing village on Ceará’s coast, with a handful of places to eat rather than a wide choice of restaurants. Expect simple spots, food trucks on the village square and a relaxed pace of life.
A weekend brunch, a casual burger or a lobster lunch ordered ahead: here are a few favourites, tried and loved by Priscilla and Xavier.
At Caju Knots, a generous breakfast is included in your stay. For lunch and dinner, or whenever you feel like exploring somewhere new, here are some of our favourite places to eat and drink.
Weekend brunch at Refúgio
At the weekend, brunch at Refúgio is the perfect excuse to slow down. Tropical fruit, fresh juices and long conversations: it is the ideal spot after a morning kite session, whether you are a couple, a family or a group of friends who have stopped looking at the clock.
Good to know: get in touch before you go to check opening days, times and whether you need to book.
On the main square: yakisoba and burgers from the food trucks
When the sun goes down, Parajuru’s main square comes to life. The food trucks roll in and the whole village gathers outside. Two options, depending on your mood: a generous yakisoba at Yaktudo , or a burger at Chapa Quente.
It is our favourite easy dinner: no planning, no fuss. Everyone picks what they fancy, and it is the best way to soak up local life.
Espetinho O Ditoco: Brazilian-style grilled skewers
A little further on, Espetinho O Ditoco is the place to remember if you love a barbecue. Espetinhos, the charcoal-grilled skewers you find all over Brazil, are made for sharing with a cold drink. And if you fancy something truly Brazilian, don’t miss their wonderful caipirinha — fresh, refreshing, and the perfect match for an evening of grilled treats. It’s a great way to vary your meals and enjoy a taste of local life during your stay.
See Espetinho O Ditoco’s listing
Barraca Vilamar: our favourite for fish and lobster
If we had to recommend just one place for lunch, this would be it. Barraca Vilamar is our favourite for delicious fish or a special lobster meal.
Our tip: Book ahead for lobster and order it in advance to confirm availability. Vilamar is mostly a lunchtime spot, not a dinner destination, perfect for a leisurely meal after a morning on the water.
And a special mention to Liza, who is simply adorable!
Ceará specialities you have to try
Beyond our favourite addresses, these are the flavours of Brazil’s Northeast. Don’t leave without trying them:
- Tapioca: a thin cassava pancake filled with cheese, coconut or dried meat. Perfect for breakfast.
- Peixe frito: freshly caught fried fish, served with rice, salad and farofa.
- Baião de dois: rice and beans cooked together with queijo coalho cheese, the great Ceará classic.
- Carne de sol: salted, sun-dried beef, often served with cassava.
- Fresh fruit juices: caju (the cashew apple that gave Caju Knots its name!), cajá, acerola, seriguela …
- Água de coco, drunk straight from the coconut after a kite session.
Want to go further? We also offer home cooking lessons so you can learn these recipes during your stay.
Practical tips before you go
- Check before you go. Opening days and availability change, especially for brunch and lobster.
- Bring the right way to pay. Small places often prefer cash or Pix (Brazil’s instant payment system), so keep a few reais on you.
- Eat early. The village follows the rhythm of fishing and the wind, and some places close fairly early.
- Ask us! We know the local restaurant owners and are happy to point you in the right direction, show you the way or make a call for you.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to eat lobster in Parajuru?
Our favourite is Barraca Vilamar. Remember to book and order your lobster in advance so they can check availability.
Do I need to book restaurants in Parajuru?
Not for the food trucks on the main square. For weekend brunch at Refúgio and for lobster at Barraca Vilamar, it is best to get in touch beforehand to check opening days and availability.
Can you eat late in the evening in Parajuru?
The food trucks on the main square are your best bet in the evening. For restaurants, it is better not to arrive too late, as some places close fairly early.
What local dishes should I try in Ceará?
Tapioca, peixe frito (fried fish), baião de dois, carne de sol, fresh caju or cajá juice and água de coco straight from the coconut.
How do I pay in restaurants in Parajuru?
Small places often prefer cash or Pix, Brazil’s instant payment system, so keep a few reais on you.
Are meals included at Caju Knots?
Yes, a generous lunch is included in your stay. Other meals are up to you, and this guide is here to help you choose.
Ready to taste Parajuru? Discover our chalés and villa and get in touch to plan your stay.