Restaurants

Wedged rather awkwardly into the corner of the Thomas Neal Centre, Canela (‘cinnamon’ in Portuguese) is unusual among Covent Garden cafés in that it stays open for dinner. It is busiest during lunch, however, turning out a mix of Brazilian and Portuguese specialities for local workers with hollow stomachs. From the weighty cheese breads (try the chorizo version) to the brigadeiros (fudgy Brazilian chocolate balls, served as part of a tempting dessert list), cooking here is unapologetically hearty. Happily, much of the food is worth the effort. The feijoada (black bean and pork stew served with rice) is fine, but a better option is bacalhau à brás (salt-cod combined with fried potatoes, onions and eggs). The room itself is plain and simple, with high ceilings adding a little drama. Staff mix a capable caipirinha, but beer hounds should make a beeline for the Super Bock stout – a mellow, easy-drinking Portuguese beer that’s seen only rarely over here.

Time Out Eating & Drinking Guide 2008