Okarú wins another Travelers' Choice award and strengthens Atins as a leading gastronomic destination
The restaurant located in the Vila Aty hotel, in the Lençóis Maranhenses region, remains among the top 10% of establishments best rated by travelers on TripAdvisor.
The Okarú restaurant, located in the village of Atins, in Barreirinhas (MA), received the 2026 Travelers' Choice award from TripAdvisor, one of the world's largest travel platforms. The award is given to establishments that are among the top 10% of profiles on the platform, based on reviews from travelers worldwide. This achievement confirms the restaurant's prominent position in the Lençóis Maranhenses region and positions Atins as a destination with gastronomy that matches its natural landscape.
For chef Érica Paula, translating the richness of local ingredients into meaningful flavors is one way to share Maranhão culture with visitors. “Seeing Okarú recognized by travelers from all over the world fills our team with pride and reinforces our responsibility to continue evolving,” reflects the professional, who has over 15 years of experience in the field.
For Jethro Raposo, a businessman from Maranhão and one of the names behind the restaurant, cuisine is a fundamental pillar for any tourist destination. “Gastronomy is an essential part of the hospitality experience. The high standard of excellence at Okarú is an extension of what we already offer at the Vila Aty hotel, and this new achievement crowns an ecosystem that celebrates the best that Atins has to offer our guests and visitors,” emphasizes the managing partner.
Award-winning trajectory
The restaurant began operating in the second half of 2020, integrated into the Vila Aty hotel structure. In 2023, the business became an independent legal entity and adopted the Okarú brand, remaining under the management of the same business group. Adding together the recognition obtained during the period it operated alongside the hotel and the individual achievements after consolidating its own brand, this is the fifth time the gastronomic operation has been awarded the TripAdvisor seal.
About Okarú
Combining regional ingredients and haute cuisine techniques, Okarú offers a diverse menu with options for appetizers, starters, salads, soups, desserts, and main courses, both individual and to share, as well as a wide variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Open to the public daily from 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM, the restaurant offers a free shuttle service in Atins for non-guests.