Camarões is probably the best restaurant in Natal. They offer a multitude of dishes that serve 2 to 3 people very well (an average of R$130) in two different locations in Ponta Negra. They are known for making extremely delicious shrimp dishes, excellent cocktails and incredible desserts. However, there are other dishes with steak, fish, as well as wonderful snacks (like shrimp pastel), drinks and desserts. Beautiful atmosphere and impeccable service.
Natal is a great place to eat sushi. The best one in our opinion is Lotus. Pete and I agreed that we had both the best sushi of our lives and some of the best cocktails as well (gotta try the passion fruit one). You won't regret going there! Pete and I celebrated our 2 year anniversary here.
Tábua de Carne is one of our favorite restaurants for eating good steak and northeastern food. There are two locations, one in Ponta Negra (usually has live music) and one in Via Costeira (likely close to your hotel and has great views during lunch) This has been the go-to place for my family when celebrating something special.
Manary is a restaurant open to the public at the hotel of the same name. The restaurant is excellent and has won many awards. Dishes based on fish, seafood, meat, risotto, and salads, and they have a great selection of drinks. The original owner a long time ago might have been a geologist and they have a beautiful collection of rocks and minerals at the back (ask to see it if you can't find it) It's by the beach, the atmosphere is beautiful, and candlelighting makes it ideal for a dinner for two. Pete and I celebrated our first anniversary here.
Casa de Taipa is a mandatory stop in Natal to eat typical tapioca (my favorite food). The atmosphere is lovely, full of details in the decoration and the menu offers a huge variety of beautiful and filling tapioca. There's also couscous, stuffed cassava bread, tapioca dice, coffees, drinks, and fresh juices.
Our favorite açaí spot in Natal. They have lots of flavors of açaí (including zero sugar, with whey protein, passion fruit etc) and many toppings to choose from. Very casual place but has incredible açaí.