Where to Eat in Liberdade, São Paulo’s Japantown: Ramen, Sushi & More
- Will Gerson
- Jul 20, 2025
- 2 min read
Updated: Nov 20, 2025
Head to Liberdade, São Paulo’s ‘Japantown,’ to get a taste of what makes this city the most multicultural in South America.
Context
São Paulo is home to the world’s largest Japanese diaspora, with most nikkei descended from immigrants who arrived at the beginning of the 20th century, when Japan was suffering from overpopulation problems and Brazil was in need of workers to keep up with the boom in coffee production occurring in the countryside of the state of São Paulo. The Japanese did not take well to the grueling conditions on the coffee plantations, and many soon migrated to the capital in search of better opportunities.
The Japanese quickly established their community here in Liberdade. Today, the neighborhood is home to a dazzling array of Japanese restaurants and shops; on the weekends, the streets are literally packed with people exploring the neighborhood and its famous open-air street fair.
Where to Eat in Liberdade
There’s usually a line outside of Momo Lamen, but it moves quickly. The ramen is delicious and comes in large portions. It’s a satisfying meal, and the pace of the restaurant keeps things moving.
A great spot to sample a wide variety of Japanese dishes, Espaço Kazu has a menu that ranges from fresh sashimi to donburi bowls. Upstairs, don’t miss their bakery and dessert counter—perfect for grabbing a sweet treat like matcha cake or mochi after your meal.
Takô offers both à la carte and unlimited sushi. The all-you-can-eat option is a good deal, and the quality holds up. The interior includes traditional-style floor seating as well as regular tables.
This small sushi restaurant often has a wait and closes early, so it’s best to arrive on the earlier side. The sushi is well-prepared and fresh, and the space is quiet and cozy, far removed from the bustling street outside.
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