In the northeast dried salted meat and beans are the staple diet. Types of establishment vary. Table service is usual in most restaurants and caf s. If resident in a hotel, drinks and meals can often be charged to account. All kinds of alcoholic drink are manufactured and available and there are no licensing hours or restrictions on drinking.
Beer is particularly good and draught beer is called chopp .
The local liqueur is cacha a , a type of rum popular with locals, but not so much with visitors. This phenomenally strong spirit is often mixed with sugar, crushed ice and limes to make caipirinha , a refreshing if intoxicating cocktail and the Brazilian national drink. Southern Brazilian wine is of a high quality. Some bars have waiters and table service. Brazilian coffee is served in espresso-sized cups and is extremely popular.