Founded originally downtown, by the Syrian immigrant Pedro Felipe Mussalen, in 1932, Casas Pedro has now a chain of branches scattered all over Rio. It’s an emporium of spices and rare seasonings, specialized in selling by weight, with over 2000 items on the catalog, as well as the traditional Arab sweet and savory snacks that are already famous.

Tabbouleh, curd, rice with lentils (mujaddara), pita bread, and za’atar are just some of the items that can be found in the stores of this chain. Natural products, grain, and dry fruits are also part of the house specialties. Don’t forget to try the dates and apricots, which come straight from Lebanon and Israel.