Cantina do Araújo, one of the most iconic restaurants in Wells of CaldasThe establishment announced the closure of its operations this Friday. The statement was published on the establishment's official social media accounts.
With nearly 71 years of history, the restaurant has become one of the best-known gastronomic spots in the city of Minas Gerais. The restaurant has helped build the fond memories of residents, tourists from Minas Gerais and São Paulo who visit the tourist destination.
Poços de Caldas is recognized as one of the most traditional tourist destinations in... Minas GeraisThe city receives visitors throughout the year, attracted by its thermal waters, historical heritage, and gastronomy.
Over the decades, Cantina do Araújo has established itself as a frequent stop for those passing through the region.
Family tradition
The restaurant became known for its wood-fired oven and for preserving traditional family recipes.
More than just a restaurant, the cantina has become a meeting point for locals and tourists.
Another factor that helped solidify the restaurant's fame was the billboards scattered along the region's highways. The strategy transformed the cantina into a well-known destination for travelers passing through the city.
Among the customers who frequented the restaurant over the years are names such as former president Fernando Henrique Cardoso, Milton Nascimento, Luan Santana, João Carlos Martins, Walter Salles, Mazzaropi, and Dercy Gonçalves.
Closing note
The restaurant's management released a statement confirming the end of its operations.
"With deep respect and gratitude, we announce the closure of Cantina do Araújo. After almost 71 years of history in Poços de Caldas, our cantina bids farewell to a journey marked by encounters, flavors, and memories that were part of so many people's lives."
"A few days ago we also said goodbye to Mr. Araújo, whose dedication, work, and love kept this story alive for decades."
"More than a restaurant, Cantina do Araújo was a meeting point, a place of tradition and affection for generations."
"To everyone who has been a part of this journey—clients, friends, and collaborators—we extend our most sincere gratitude."
"We are closing our doors, but we take with us a story that will remain alive in the memory of Poços de Caldas."
Death of chef Walter Araújo
The announcement of the closure came just days after Walter Araújo's death.
The founding chef died on March 4th, at the age of 85. According to information released by his family, he had undergone surgery at the end of 2025 and was recovering.
Walter Araújo dedicated decades to the restaurant and was responsible for preserving the house's traditional recipes.
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Aguinaldo Barros
March 16, 2026 at 00:00 pm
I loved it, because many years ago I went with my mother, my godfather uncle, and my aunt, and we were very poorly served by the waiters. They were dressed in simple clothes, and besides taking a long time to bring the order, they put it on the table and we had to cut the meat and serve ourselves. If they did this to us, they must have done it to other ordinary people as well.
Reginaldo fante rsymundo
March 16, 2026 at 07:41 pm
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Reginaldo fante rsymundo
March 16, 2026 at 07:43 pm
This beautiful canteen will be missed.
Antonio Carlos Faria Pirillo
March 16, 2026 at 17:08 pm
A landmark of the City that is coming to an end.
Excellent cuisine, attentive waiters with many years of experience at the restaurant.
Walter, always attentive to everything and everyone, has maintained the translation skills inherited from his parents for so many years.
Our condolences to the family.
Valdir Lopes da Silva
March 16, 2026 at 21:00 pm
Sad... we go to the city every year and definitely to Araújo... it's a shame there isn't a successor.
Every dog has his day.
Thank you to everyone at the Araújo canteen.