Mexico 70, Rio de Janeiro

To say that Brazil is a soccer-mad nation would be an understatement, and in Rio de Janeiro the passion for futebol is particularly strong. This bar raises a toast to footballing glories past and present, honoring in particular the legendary World Cup-winning side of 1970, led by the most famous Brazilian player of all time, Pelé. Photos, images and collectibles from the triumphant World Cup campaign are hung on the walls, inspiring much sports-related chat among drinkers and diners. There are some delicious versions of traditional Brazilian bar snacks such as sundried beef with aipim (a root vegetable) as well as tasty sandwiches such as the Ingles, which combines sliced beef, arugula, lime juice, black pepper and barbeque sauce. It's an odd combination, and one that doesn't sound as typically English as the name would suggest, but it's one that somehow works. Wash your food down with an ice cold beer or a classic caipirinha cocktail. From Wednesday to Saturday, you can hear live MPB (Brazilian Popular Music) as you eat and drink. -Lucy Bryson

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