Piselli

The story

Piselli São Paulo – Italian Restaurant in Jardins, Michelin Recommended

Piselli São Paulo: Italian Classics in Jardins

In July 2004, on his 35th birthday, Juscelino Pereira opened the doors of Piselli in São Paulo’s Jardins neighborhood. The name, meaning “peas” in Italian, is a nod to Pereira’s early, unsuccessful attempt at farming the legume in his hometown of Joanópolis, in the Serra da Mantiqueira. That agricultural dream gave way to a career in restaurants, and eventually to his own place. Today, Piselli is a destination for classic Italian cooking, with particular inspiration from the Piedmont region.

The restaurant’s most celebrated dishes include the Ravioli di Fontina alla Crema di Tartufo Nero – ravioli filled with Fontina cheese in a black truffle cream sauce – and the Tortelloni di Mozzarella di Bufala, fresh pasta with buffalo mozzarella, fresh tomato sauce, and basil. The Ravioli alla Piemontese features large ravioli stuffed with Taleggio cheese, asparagus, and egg yolk, finished with a white truffle cream. And the signature Risotto Piselli is a classic pea risotto with Grana Padano and gorgonzola.

The atmosphere is classic Italian, with a warm, intimate main salon decorated with vibrant paintings by artist Dalmau and a central chandelier by Joana Vieira. A charming parklet serves as a waiting area or a spot for a drink and a cigar. The bar turns out classics and house creations like the Maravilhoso (gin, spices, and ginger) and the Itamambuca (gin with spice and fruit infusion), crafted by bartender Valmar. A cozy, climate-controlled veranda seats 15 guests and is a favorite for those who enjoy watching the street.

Piselli’s consistent quality and refined Italian cuisine earned it a place in the Michelin guide, a recognition that reflects the restaurant’s dedication to its craft. For those seeking authentic Italian fare in São Paulo, Piselli delivers a grounded, flavorful experience.