Chez Claude Rio de Janeiro•Leblon

French•$$$$

With over 30 years in Brazil, French chef Claude Troisgros has just opened his seventh restaurant in Rio. He was baptized Chez Claude (Casa do Claude) and the name already reveals the intentions of the project: the chef is at ease, as if was at home. For this, he opted for an open kitchen in the middle of the hall and the surrounding tables, as in an arena theater. It is very interesting to see the movement of the stoves, pots and pans coming and going. “I wanted to do something totally different from what I have in other restaurants. The idea is to be close to the customer, to break the formality of the bistros, to deconstruct some concepts, regardless of awards and stars. I want to feel at home, ”said Troisgros. And that really is the feeling you get there, with the chef sitting at your table, talking to customers, without any ceremony. The menu reflects this uncluttered, informal spirit, with portions and dishes to share - no dishes, as in high-end restaurants.