By Sílvia Oliveira

It is almost a tourist attraction. However, it goes unnoticed by many who come to visit the state capital or even by those who live here. Teffe Street is a shopping street located in the Bom Retiro neighbourhood, with easy access by car or public transport.

For over 20 years, the region was the stronghold of small shops selling end-ofline footwear. Business grew, multiplied and now there are more than 30 companies selling women’s, men’s and children’s shoes. It is not that the “end-of-line” shops turned into designer-label shoe stores.

Almost all shops offer something similar – models with few pairs at affordable prices. The novelty is that the latest models also dominate the shop windows! Along with Emilio Menezes Street, Teffe Street is also now home to clothing and accessory shops, forming a top-line fashion centre close to the heart of the city.

Although the local stores have lost their “end-of-line” characteristic, good prices – combined with excellent quality and variety – are still to be found. Teffe Street’s slogan – “the first footwear theme street in the country” – may create false expectation.

This is not a psychedelic shopping centre, surrounded by rides or food courts. Much less is it the only or the first of its kind in Brazil. However, you will certainly find a tree-lined avenue with wide pavements, free parking and friendly service.

Information

Teffe Street =>
www.ruateffe.com.br
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
How to get there by bus: From Praça Tiradentes (Tiradentes Square), in Curitiba’s city centre, take the Bracatinga, Vila Nori or Primavera bus. Ask the conductor to let you off at the closest stop to Rua Teffé.

Photos: Sílvia Oliveira | Matraca’s Image Bank