Behind the bar, in charge of the kitchen or leading innovative projects, women are increasingly gaining space in bars.
And this is good for many reasons: more diversity and inclusion, reviving the history of women in street culture, and encouraging local entrepreneurship. All this without losing the charm and authenticity of the traditional bar.
In this article, you will discover how these changes are happening in practice and hear inspiring stories of those who are transforming bar culture in Brazil. Get ready to see bars with different eyes, and learn how you can support this transformation in a simple and meaningful way.
The Female Presence in Bars: A Historical Overview
Let’s now explore in more detail how it all began. For decades, bars were considered “male territory”. Women, when present, were generally viewed with suspicion or restricted to secondary roles.
But the scenario has changed. Since the early 2000s, a silent and powerful movement for female inclusion in these spaces has emerged. The strength of women in bars has grown so much that today it is impossible to ignore their leading role.
They started as regulars, went on to work as waiters and cooks, and many became owners and managers of their own bars. It is important to emphasize that this presence is also resistance, a way of occupying public spaces with freedom and identity.
They Took Over the Counter, And the Business
It is also worth noting that many of these women are not just present: they are in charge. From peripheral neighborhoods to bohemian regions of capital cities, they manage bars, innovate menus and give the place a unique personality.
Let’s give an example: Dona Zefa, who runs a traditional bar in Recife, has become a reference not only for her award-winning bean soup, but for employing only women in vulnerable situations. Cases like this show how the female presence goes beyond aesthetics; it transforms realities.
Another important point to consider is the creative and welcoming approach that many owners bring, offering safer and more open spaces for everyone.
Recent Changes: More Space, More Voice
Let’s delve a little deeper into this topic. In recent years, the rise of women’s empowerment movements in Brazil has also boosted actions aimed at bars.
Projects like “Elas no Bar” promote festivals where only women perform, cook or serve. Initiatives like this help change society’s perception of these environments, showing that they are, in fact, spaces for sociability, popular culture and protagonism.
To better understand, let’s look at how social media has also helped. Many owners and patrons share their experiences and stories online, creating a strong and engaged community — and encouraging others to occupy this space without fear.
Examples of Women Who Made Their Mark in Bars
Below, check out some figures and initiatives that have been standing out and deserve recognition:
- Tia Surica (RJ) – A reference in samba and a constant presence in bars in the northern part of Rio.
- Bar da Rosa (SP) – Run by a self-taught chef, it is known for its comfort food and welcoming atmosphere.
- Mulheres de Barteco Project (MG) – Brings together stories of women who work in bars, recounting their trajectories.
- Bar da Moça (PE) – Created by a former kitchen employee who became the owner of one of the most beloved bars in the city.
- “Boteco Delas” Festival (BA) – Annual event where all participating spaces are run by women.
These examples show how the term “mulheres de bareco” goes far beyond presence. It represents transformation and power.
Practical Guide: How to Support Female Leadership in Bars
If you want to be part of this change, here are some practical actions:
Choose establishments run by women.
Look for and share bars run by women, your support makes a difference.
Give visibility on social media.
Posting a positive experience can attract more people and strengthen your business.
Talk to them and listen to their stories.
Many of these women have inspiring stories that deserve to be heard.
Participate in themed events.
Festivals, samba circles or fairs that highlight women are great ways to support them.
Recommend them and come back.
The best advertising is still word of mouth. If you liked it, bring more people.
Facts and Curiosities that Will Surprise You
- In some Brazilian capitals, more than 30% of new bars are opened by women.
- Many of these entrepreneurs started with informal businesses, using family recipes.
- The increased presence of women has helped reduce cases of harassment in bars.
- Bar do Mimo (RJ) was the first to have 100% female staff — and won an award for the best inclusive environment.
- “Boteco” is a word of Portuguese origin that became popular in Brazil in the 20th century, but today it has a new meaning thanks to women.
How the Media is Portraying Women in Bars
It is also worth highlighting how the representation of women in bars has been gaining space in the media. If before the image of women was limited or even stereotyped, today we see documentaries, reports and films that place these women as protagonists.
Series such as “Chefs do Bairro” (produced for YouTube by independent collectives) show the routine of women who masterfully run bars and popular kitchens. On TV shows, bar chefs have begun to compete for national awards and appear in gastronomic segments.
This change in narrative helps to deconstruct prejudices and give visibility to those who have long been marginalized. And most importantly, it brings the public closer to these real and inspiring stories.
The Role of Social Media in Female Visibility
Another important point to consider is the power of social media in this transformation. Instagram, TikTok and even X (formerly Twitter) have become empowerment and promotion tools for many women in bars.
You may have come across videos of bar recipes made by incredible women. Or posts that tell the story of a bar owner who changed the life of the community. This digital exposure not only attracts customers, but also strengthens support networks among female entrepreneurs.
Influencers like @mulhernoboteco and @botecodelas gain followers daily by showing behind the scenes and the challenges of running popular bars. This type of content breaks down geographic and cultural barriers, and connects people with real causes.
Challenges Still Faced by Women in Bars
To better understand the reality, it is also important to talk about the challenges. Despite the progress, women who work in bars still face prejudice, sexism and even symbolic violence. Many have to constantly prove their competence to be respected as leaders.
Others report uncomfortable situations with suppliers, customers or even business partners. And we cannot forget that the bar and restaurant sector has a high rate of informality, which directly impacts women. Another relevant challenge is balancing work and personal life, especially for mothers and caregivers.
In a sector that demands long shifts and flexibility, this equation is not always easy to solve. But what is impressive is how they resist. With creativity, unity and courage, these women continue to innovate and pave the way for others.
Future Perspectives: Where Are We Going?
Let’s take a deeper look into the future. With the increase in social awareness and the support of gender equality movements, everything indicates that the female presence in bars will continue to grow.
There is a clear trend towards valuing local commerce and traditional cuisine. This favors women who invest in signature recipes, personalized service and more welcoming environments.
In addition, we are seeing the emergence of groups, courses and fairs aimed at training female entrepreneurs in the food and beverage sector. This means more preparation, a greater support network, and a greater positive impact.
The new generation is already growing up with a more inclusive outlook. This helps to create bars that are more diverse, safer and more representative for everyone.
Apps that Connect You to the Women’s Bar
Universe If you want to support these women in a practical and modern way, apps can be great allies. They help you discover new bars run by women, follow events and even learn authentic bar recipes straight from the source. Here are some that make a difference:
Yelp Brazil
Although less popular in Brazil, Yelp is still a useful tool for mapping establishments and checking reviews. You can search for bars and filter results by “businesses run by women”.
Benefit: Ideal for discovering new places and leaving positive comments to support them.
Google Maps with Local Filters
A practical trick: type “bar run by women” or “female bar” in Google Maps and see what appears. Many bars already identify themselves this way. You can also contribute by adding comments and reviews highlighting this aspect.
Benefit: Increases the visibility of those who need to be found.
Incredible Tips for Living the Experience with Women in Bars
Want to enjoy this culture even more from a new perspective? Check out these suggestions:
- Order the house dish and discover the story behind it. Many come from family recipes.
- Ask who the owner is. You may end up meeting an inspiring figure.
- Pay attention to the details. The decor, the service and even the playlist often reflect the female personality in charge.
- Bring friends from out of town. Show other people that bars are also a place of respect and diversity.
- Be part of the transformation. When you value these women, you encourage a cycle of empowerment.
Conclusion
As we have seen, women in bars are not just participating, they are leading, innovating and making Brazilian bars more diverse, safe and creative places. From the pioneers to the most recent projects, female leadership has transformed bar culture in Brazil.
Take the opportunity to put this knowledge into practice: support bars led by women, share good experiences and help strengthen this network of transformation.
Now it’s up to you. Next time you go to a bar, notice who is behind the bar, and value every detail of this change.
The bar may be the same, but Brazil is no longer, and a lot of that has to do with them.
