Largo do Arouche

I went with colleagues since we were staying in the area and we decided to walk in search of a restaurant and we passed by Largo do Arouche. There are several gastronomic options in the area. This attraction is interesting but I have reservations regarding safety aspects especially at night when the square becomes empty and with possibilities of unreliable visitors. Good to pay attention. Here in Largo do Arouche works the Mercado de Flores (Plaça das Flores which is another name by which Largo is known). It is also recognized as a polo of diversity and LGBTQIA+ culture. The name comes from a tribute to Marshal José Arouche de Toledo Rendon (1756-1834), a military and important figure who owned land in the region. It was previously called Largo do Ouvidor and Largo da Artilharia. In the surrounding area there are traditional and renowned restaurants of São Paulo, such as the French La Casserole and the Italian O Gato que Ri. Interesting to know and even choose a restaurant nearby.

As always, São Paulo is a great city, but, to eat well and participate in cultural activities, it requires giving up and spending up to 100.00 or more on a lunch. São Paulo, like the rest of Brazil, but perhaps in an even more contrasting way, is the portrait of inequality... Since 2018, São Paulo has had hordes of people living on the streets, sleeping on the sidewalks, on the steps of theaters, museums, etc. The center is practically impassable on foot. Unfortunately, on this last trip, in August 2023, while calling an Uber in front of Copan, a guy passed by on a bicycle and stole my cell phone... I didn't even have time to say "ouch". Then I read that there are records of around 42 cell phone thefts per hour in the center of SP, apart from the unregistered ones. I observed my friends using watches again so as not to take out their cell phones on the street to check the time, as well as accessing applications or typing only in closed places. Security is in chaos... and rampant poverty appears at its worst in the absence of decent public policies for the poorest.

A thriving bar and restaurant area the main largo is fine but som side streets can be precarious. If the street is quiet avoid it.. good prices and friendly and very gay friendly.

typically são paulo - filth side by side to glitz beggars sleeping between designer shops. a stones throw from república metro station with a wide variety of cafes and bars (although many open only during daytime). a pleasant tree lined square (with one of sp's few roundabouts) and lovely flower shops.

The classic square is beautiful with different shades of green from various trees and various monumental buildings. Security and restaurant offerings are steadily improving