For this street style photographer-turned-fashion designer, the lure of native country Brazil simply proved too great. Fernando Frisoni called Sydney home for over a decade, during which time he ran his eponymous womenswear label, but has happily returned to make his home in the vibrant city of São Paulo. Now as the creative director at Attaché Creative, Fernando is more than happy to share his endless insider tips for experiencing the very best of this culturally rich and energetic capital. For you, what defines the life and culture in São Paulo? São Paulo is not a ‘tourist’ kind of town, it is a concrete jungle full of surprises and excitement. Brazilian lifestyle changes whichever city in Brazil you are. In São Paulo, the lifestyle is more vibrant, cosmopolitan, more party party party… We work hard and play hard here. And we are surrounded by culture, tradition and amazing architecture. What are your favourite restaurants in town? Due to the largest Japanese migration Sao Paulo have incredible Japanese restaurants, a classic one is Nagayama, marvellous things happens there. Another Japanese restaurant I love is Jun Sakamoto. It has been described as São Paulo's premier fine Japanese cuisine by many of Brazil's most recognised chefs. Talking a little Brazilian there is Mani and it is amazing, the place the food and the atmosphere is a mix fusion of Brazilian culture perfectly executed, for me the best restaurant in town. Another good option for Brazilian fusion is EMA, the chef is good friend of mine, Renata Vanzetto, she’s a sweet heart and food represents her personality. If you are in São Paulo you must try the famous cheese bread with an expresso at Pao De Queijo Da Haddock - the best cheese bread on the planet. There is a new beautiful Mexican restaurant at the Copan building, named La Central. Where are your favourite shopping destinations? The Brazilian textile designer, Adriana Barra, famous for her vibrant and exotic prints. Helo Rocha is all about party dresses in lace, velvet, and exotic fabrics. Vanda Jacintho is a fashion editor, designer and consultant who works with some of the world's most esteemed brands. Virzi De Luca immerses in fashion, poetry and art. The duo’s beautiful jewellery pieces are infused with a seductive sense of fun and freedom of the imagination. Pedro Lourenço is Brazil’s brightest young design talent. Giuliana Rommano is one of the most sought after and prestigious new fashion designers in Brazil. Cris Barros has already become a reference for elegant and distinguished women around the world. Share your choice of ‘hubs’ to visit in São Paulo? Every suburb is like a city. Every suburb has a mystery and an attraction. I like it all, from the richest the poorest. Paulista Avenue: The main commercial center of South America, you'll see many modernist high rises and the iconic MASP (Sao Paulo museum of art) designed by Lina Bo Bardi. Higienópolis: Located near Paulista Avenue, Higienópolis is a very sophisticated and traditional neighbourhood with lots of restaurants, bars and some of the most beautiful modernist residential buildings of the city, designed by famous architects like Vila Nova Artigas and Atacho Jurado. Jardins: A luxury shopping spot. Take a walk in Oscar Freire Street, you'll see many luxury stores designed by famous architects. It's perfect for people watching. Vila Madalenakk: A bohemian neighbourhood with many bars, nightclubs and street art. Ibirapuera Park: A huge park with Museums, Niemeyer and beautiful landscapes. Centro: Downtown São Paulo has a lots of historic buildings including Niemeyer's COPAN - this huge curved concrete high-rise. You can go up there for free and see the city from above. Also take a walk at Vale do Anhangabaú, a huge esplanade where you can see neoclassic buildings alongside modernist high rises. Luz: This is an old industrial district where you can find da Mendes's Pinacoteca museum, Museu da Língua Portuguesa and Sala São Paulo (concert hall). It's not the safest place of the city, so I suggest you take a cab and go straight to those places. Outline your ideal day in Sao Paulo? Take an afternoon walking around the neighbourhood Higienópolis in São Paulo to see some of the famous architecture from the 1950s & 1960s, then to a lovely lunch to see a little bit of the suburban regions where real things happens. What are your favourite places for nightlife? Two of my favourites are Bar Numero and Baretto, but for me the really underground locations, that you can only find with a local, are the best.
- Bar Numero: The ambiance is chic and comfortable. Excellent drinks.
- Baretto: The place has a charm. Its romantic and you will meet the local style-makers.