Bom Motivo Bar

Bom Motivo Bar São Paulo: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the vibrant Pinheiros neighborhood, Bom Motivo Bar stood as a legendary hub for Brazilian music and culture in São Paulo. Founded in 1984 by musician and researcher Roberto Lapiccirella, the venue quickly became an iconic destination for lovers of Música Popular Brasileira (MPB) and samba. Over three decades, Bom Motivo hosted both music legends and local talent, fostering a tight-knit community and helping to preserve Brazil’s rich musical traditions (Wikipedia). Although the bar closed its doors by 2017, its spirit endures in the city’s lively nightlife and ongoing musical celebrations. This guide covers Bom Motivo’s history, cultural significance, visitor insights, and how to experience its legacy in present-day São Paulo.

Introduction
History of Bom Motivo Bar
- Founding and Early Years (1984–2000)
- Renovation and Reinvention (2009)
Cultural Significance and Musical Legacy
Bom Motivo’s Role in São Paulo’s Nightlife
Visiting Bom Motivo Bar Today
- Closure Status and Alternatives
- Special Events and Photographic Spots
Visitor Information
Live Music Experience
Practical Tips for Visitors
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References

History of Bom Motivo Bar

Founding and Early Years (1984–2000)

Bom Motivo Bar opened in 1984 on Rua Deputado Lacerda Franco in Pinheiros, São Paulo, under the stewardship of Roberto Lapiccirella—a passionate advocate for MPB and samba (Wikipedia). In the wake of Brazil’s return to democracy, the bar became a gathering point for musicians, artists, and locals eager to reconnect with Brazilian musical roots. The stage saw performances from icons such as Chico Buarque and João Bosco, helping to elevate Bom Motivo’s status as a cornerstone of São Paulo’s cultural scene (Guia da Semana).

Renovation and Reinvention (2009)

In 2009, Bom Motivo underwent a major renovation, expanding its performance areas and updating its menu to include creative cocktails like caipirinha de saquê com kiwi e hortelã (sake caipirinha with kiwi and mint) alongside beloved Brazilian classics (Folha de S.Paulo). The new layout allowed for simultaneous live music in two distinct spaces, attracting an even wider array of music fans and maintaining its reputation for authenticity.

Cultural Significance and Musical Legacy

Bom Motivo Bar was much more than a nightlife venue; it was an engine for cultural preservation. With nightly live performances, often featuring up to seven different artists each week, the bar provided an ever-changing showcase of classic and contemporary MPB and samba (Guia da Semana). Audience requests were welcomed, creating a participatory and communal environment.

Beyond music, Bom Motivo also hosted social events like truco card game tournaments and the famed Saturday feijoada gatherings—further embedding itself into São Paulo’s social fabric. Its unwavering commitment to Brazilian genres, especially at times when globalized pop and electronic music gained popularity, helped sustain and share Brazil’s musical heritage (Wikipedia).

Bom Motivo’s Role in São Paulo’s Nightlife

Located in Pinheiros—a district celebrated for its bohemian energy—Bom Motivo was a beacon for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic Brazilian experience. Its inclusive atmosphere, democratic spirit, and accessibility made it a favorite among a diverse clientele (Veja SP). Bom Motivo’s embrace of MPB and samba positioned it as a guardian of tradition within São Paulo’s rapidly evolving bar scene.

Visiting Bom Motivo Bar Today

Closure Status and Alternatives

Bom Motivo Bar closed by 2017 and is no longer operational (Guia da Semana). You cannot currently visit or purchase tickets for the venue. However, the legacy lives on in nearby neighborhoods:

Pinheiros and Vila Madalena: Both districts feature a vibrant selection of bars and clubs with live MPB and samba, echoing Bom Motivo’s spirit (Travel Buddies).
Guided Nightlife Tours: Several local tours highlight venues inspired by or connected to Bom Motivo’s tradition.

Special Events and Photographic Spots

While Bom Motivo’s special events (like feijoada Saturdays and card tournaments) are now memories, Pinheiros remains a hotspot for live music and street art—a photographer’s delight. Seek out venues with a similar intimate and musical vibe for a taste of São Paulo’s ongoing cultural rhythm.

Visitor Information

Location and Accessibility

Former Address: Rua Deputado Lacerda Franco, 452, Pinheiros, São Paulo, SP, Brazil (BaresSP).
Metro Access: Faria Lima Station (Line 4 - Yellow), ~10-minute walk.

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Note: Bom Motivo Bar is closed and no longer accepts visitors or sells tickets. For venues inspired by Bom Motivo, check individual locations for current hours and ticketing policies.

Food and Drink Offerings

When open, Bom Motivo was celebrated for its petiscos (Brazilian bar snacks) and inventive cocktails. Caipirinhas, domestic beers, and dishes like pastel and bolinho de bacalhau were favorites (Lonely Planet). Today, similar offerings can be found at bars throughout Pinheiros and Vila Madalena.

Dress Code and Reservations

Dress Code: Casual to smart-casual, especially on weekends.
Reservations: Previously recommended for groups and busy nights. For current venues, check reservation policies.

Safety and Etiquette

Pinheiros is considered safe, but stay street-smart and use ride-sharing for night travel (Lonely Planet).
Tipping is customary for good service, especially during live performances.

Accessibility

The 2009 renovation improved ground-floor accessibility, but upper areas required stairs. For accessible venues today, contact locations directly to confirm facilities.

Live Music Experience

Bom Motivo’s stage was renowned for hosting Brazil’s musical legends and up-and-coming talent. The programming celebrated the likes of Chico Buarque, João Bosco, Tom Jobim, and many more (BaresSP). Intimate settings and audience participation were hallmarks of the Bom Motivo experience.

Even though the bar has closed, you can find similarly immersive live music experiences in the Pinheiros and Vila Madalena areas.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Best Times to Visit: For authentic MPB or samba, weekends are busiest and most vibrant, especially during special events.
Language: Portuguese is the primary language; basic phrases or translation apps are helpful.
Payments: Most venues accept cards, but carry some cash for tips and small purchases.
Solo Travelers: Friendly atmosphere; solo visitors are welcome.
Group Visits: Book ahead at popular music venues.
Photography: Discreet photography is generally allowed; avoid flash during performances.

Explore additional bars and cultural spaces in the area to round out your night (Nannybag).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is Bom Motivo Bar still open?
A: No, Bom Motivo Bar closed by 2017 and is no longer operational.

Q: Where was Bom Motivo Bar located?
A: Rua Deputado Lacerda Franco, 452, Pinheiros, São Paulo.

Q: What kind of music was featured?
A: Primarily Música Popular Brasileira (MPB) and samba, with regular live performances by renowned and emerging artists.

Q: Are there similar venues open now?
A: Yes, explore Pinheiros and Vila Madalena for live MPB and samba in intimate settings.

Q: Can I find guided tours related to Bom Motivo Bar?
A: While direct tours of Bom Motivo are unavailable, nightlife and music tours often visit venues inspired by its legacy.

Conclusion

Though Bom Motivo Bar is no longer accessible, its impact endures throughout São Paulo’s dynamic music scene. The bar’s combination of live MPB, samba, traditional cuisine, and welcoming community remain benchmarks for local venues. Travelers and music lovers can still immerse themselves in the spirit of Bom Motivo by exploring the city’s thriving nightlife, particularly in Pinheiros and Vila Madalena. To stay updated on events and discover related cultural hotspots, consider downloading the Audiala app and following São Paulo’s music-focused blogs and social media.