In the mid-19th century, the neighborhoods of Glória and Catete were considered outskirts of Rio [1]. Their proximity to Centro [2] and the Baía de Guanabara lured Rio’s burgeoning upper-middle class, and they remained fashionable addresses until the mid-20th century.
Since then, the area has lost some of its luster; however, Catete in particular is quite lively with lots of local bars and restaurants [3] as well as a handful of interesting sights.
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/brazil/rio-de-janeiro/rio-de-janeiro-city
[2] http://www.moon.com/destinations/brazil/rio-de-janeiro/rio-de-janeiro-city/sights/centro
[3] http://www.moon.com/destinations/brazil/rio-de-janeiro/rio-de-janeiro-city/food/gloria-and-catete