Honest verdict on Acarajé — good but not exceptional

Acarajé here was solidly made — smoky and umami-deep without anything to complain about. dende palm oil was present and handled reasonably. But something was missing from the depth that this dish should have.

Brazilian cuisine reflects indigenous, Portuguese, and African culinary heritages in equal measure. The a São Paulo padaria atmosphere was pleasant enough. Brahma lager was available and a good suggestion. For a reliable version of Acarajé this works. For an exceptional one, I'd keep looking. Three stars.