Get Ready to "Chão" Down!

Fogo de Chão is a Brazilian Steakhouse that began in 1975. The founders grew up in Southern Brazilian farms in Serra Gaucha. They left the countryside in order to continue their formal churrasqueiro training. In 1979, the first Fogo restaurant opened up in the countryside of Porto Alegre. Fogo "represented the dedication to quality, investments in the art and culture of the city and a respect for the heritage of the founders’ families." according to their story.

With great success, they expanded to São Paulo and then in 1997, they were able to expand to the USA, the first location being in Dallas, Texas.

With great success, Fogo de chao was able to expand across the USA and Brazil while continuing to introduce new flavors and experiences to its customers. I have only been to Fogo de Chão twice in my life and both times have been a phenomenal experience. They have some of the best food I have ever eaten. Both times I ordered the full dinner experience which includes the meat, side dishes, and the market table. This meal includes endless meats such a filet mignon, chicken, pork, and fish all prepared to perfection. My favorite meat that they have that I’ve tried would probably have to be the filet mignon. The seasoning is just right, and it is cooked perfectly (medium). With these meats comes a variety of side dishes. Three must haves that will make your visit is the garlic mashed potatoes, the Pão de Queijo (a warm, soft cheesy bread roll), and for the sweet tooth, the caramelized bananas. The bananas are so soft, and are sweet enough without being too sweet. A nice little treat to go in between the main courses.

Caramelized Bananas

If you thought that was a lot of food, the Fogo experience also includes the market table. It includes fresh fruit, cheeses, deli meats, salads, and so much more, including my favorite; the black pepper candied bacon. It is crispy yet chewy and sweet yet savory. The absolute best bacon I have ever eaten. With the food being so fantastic, the staff was even more so! My waiter was very nice and personable. He was talking to me more like a friend than a customer and was really funny and entertaining. Service was outstanding. I even got a little birthday dessert, Crème brûlée, which is tied with macarons as my #1 favorite dessert.

Overall my experience exceeded my expectations and I would highly recommend going to Fogo at least once in your lifetime. It is worth every penny spent here. To learn more about Fogo de Chão, visit their website here.

If you have been there, leave a comment on what your favorite thing about Fogo de Chão is!

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