AVENIDA PAULISTA - Supermarkets

One of the first things I look for in a new city is a supermarket. This may come in handy for any unexpected necessity, and for my customary daily supply of mineral water – I refuse to pay the amount hotels charge for a small bottle, and I do drink lots of water during a day.

If you are staying or hanging around Av. Paulista you have at least two choices of supermarkets to count on:

EXTRA SUPERMERCADOS – Av. Brigadeiro Luis Antonio, 2013. One block from Av. Paulista, on the even-numbered sidewalk. (www.extra.com.br)

A large market with all ranges of products and reasonable prices. Good choice of fruit, if you care to taste some local specimens Also nice for foreigners who like to buy cigarette packages, which are apparently much cheaper in Brazil – in this case you must ask for the cashier, for the cigarettes are visible on a glass display at the entrance, but must be asked for and brought to the cashier by one of the market’s employees. Order (or write on a piece of paper) “(number of packages wanted) pacote(s) de (cigarette brand you desire)”.

PÃO DE AÇÚCAR – Alameda Santos, 2071. One block from Av. Paulista, right behind Conjunto Nacional (odd-numbered sidewalk). (www.paodeacucar.com.br)

Unfortunately this is a small shop of this nice supermarket chain, and as a consequence of the lack of space, the shop is somewhat crammed and confused. If you care to walk a little longer, you’ll find another Pão de Açúcar on r. Pamplona, 816

This supermarket will not have huge supplies of anything, and prices are not the cheapest in town, but they do offer variety and uncommon things. Lots of imported, organic, or  homemade products, different brands, typical Brazilian brands, etc. Good for foreigners who would like to take home some Brazilian coffee, but to have more choices for their pick. Also Brazilian chocolates with local fruits such as cupuaçu, take-away food and sandwiches, fresh juices, and always new and interesting items.