Assunção Restaurante Verified listing

Assunção Restaurante is tucked away at Rua Assunção, 184, in the charming neighborhood of Botafogo, Zona Sul, Rio de Janeiro. Since its opening in 2014 under the guidance of Chef Mirka Lage—who brought experience from LEADING kitchens like CuisinArt and worked alongside Roberta Sudbrack—the restaurant has become a beacon of “cozinha autoral e afetiva,” or soulful, personal cuisine. The venue is small, seating around 60 guests, with cozy lighting and rustic decor that blend elegance and comfort—a perfect setting for a relaxed, emotionally engaging meal.

At the heart of Assunção's charm is Chef Mirka Lage’s culinary style, rooted in nostalgic flavors and personal memories. She crafts dishes that highlight simple ingredients with bold, expressive seasonings and thoughtful presentation—examples include the iconic Torre de Mignon (steak tower with Canastra cheese, crispy leek, Dijon mustard, and rustic fries), the eggplant croquette with Canastra cheese and tomato chutney (≈ R$36), and the apple crêpe brûlée with toffee sauce for dessert (≈ R$26). Local press praises her gastronomic narrative and the emotional resonance of her food.

Patrons consistently highlight both the ambiance and the quality of the food. A recent Google review praised the “cozy, clean, well-organized atmosphere,” the “super friendly” service, and portions that are generous and delicious—especially the mille-feuille, “divine”—adding that they'd definitely return. TripAdvisor reviewers also commend the romantic, welcoming vibe and delightful dishes like chocolate cake with warm brigadeiro Some old-time fans remember standout seasonal specials like lobster Thermidor with garlic-oil mashed potatoes and lamb picanha with Dijon-beer marinade—dishes that evoke fond memories.

In short: Assunção Restaurante is a beloved spot in Botafogo where Chef Mirka Lage’s heartfelt, contemporary Brazilian cooking meets an elegant yet intimate setting. It's known for authentic flavors steeped in personal narrative, and garners consistent praise for both the food and atmosphere—making it a memorable dining experience in Rio de Janeiro.