Fogo de Chão Restaurant Is Taking Over America – Here’s the Scoop

Fogo de Chão restaurant is creating quite a buzz lately—and for good reason. Known for its Brazilian-style dining experience and endless servings of fire-roasted meats, Fogo de Chão is now expanding across the United States at a rapid pace.

In this article, we explore what makes the restaurant so popular, where it’s heading next, and what new things customers can expect in 2025.

What Is Fogo de Chão Restaurant?

Fogo de Chão (pronounced fo-go dee shoun) is a Brazilian steakhouse, also known as a churrascaria. The name literally means “fire on the ground,” referring to the traditional cooking method of meat over an open flame.

Founded in 1979 in Porto Alegre, Brazil, the first U.S. location opened in Dallas, Texas in 1997. Since then, the brand has become a global sensation. Today, Fogo de Chão operates over 70 restaurants worldwide, including locations in the U.S., Mexico, and the Middle East.

What Makes Fogo de Chão So Unique?

The main reason people love Fogo de Chão is the “continuous tableside service” of different meats—beef, chicken, pork, and lamb—all grilled to perfection.

Here’s what sets it apart:

• All-You-Can-Eat Meats: Guests enjoy endless servings of freshly grilled meat, carved tableside by chefs.
• Market Table: A salad bar that’s far from ordinary—featuring imported cheeses, fresh vegetables, cured meats, and Brazilian side dishes.
• Authentic Brazilian Experience: From the way the food is cooked to how it’s served, Fogo sticks to its roots.
• Elegant Ambiance: The atmosphere is upscale yet welcoming, perfect for business dinners or special occasions.

Fogo de Chão’s Rapid Expansion in the U.S.

In the past few years, Fogo de Chão restaurant has been expanding aggressively. In 2023 and 2024 alone, new locations opened in cities like Chicago, Las Vegas, San Jose, and Washington, D.C.

What’s fueling this growth?

1. High Demand for Unique Dining: People are seeking more interactive and memorable experiences.
2. Strategic Real Estate: Fogo is choosing high-traffic, premium locations near malls and downtown areas.
3. Private Equity Backing: The brand was acquired by private equity firm Rhône Group, which provided the capital needed for fast expansion.

According to company officials, the plan is to double the number of locations in the next 5 years, focusing on both suburban and urban markets.

What’s New on the Menu in 2025?

To keep things exciting, Fogo de Chão restaurant regularly updates its menu with seasonal items and limited-time offers.

Some new additions include:

• Dry-Aged Tomahawk Ribeye: A premium cut that’s aged in-house for maximum flavor.
• Brazilian Surf & Turf: Pairing fire-grilled picanha with jumbo garlic shrimp.
• Cachaça Cocktails: A wider selection of cocktails made with Brazil’s national spirit.
• Expanded Vegan Options: Yes, even meat-lovers bring plant-based friends—Fogo’s new roasted veggie dishes and salads cater to all diets.

Is It Worth the Price?

Fogo de Chão is not a budget restaurant—but it does offer value. The fixed-price model (around $60–$75 per person for dinner) includes all meats, Market Table, and sides.

Here’s why many think it’s worth it:

• You’re paying for the experience, not just the food.
• Top-quality meat and ingredients—no corners cut.
• Great for special events, birthdays, and group dinners.

Many guests recommend visiting during lunch hours or happy hour for better deals without compromising the experience.

Upcoming Locations to Watch

In 2025, Fogo de Chão restaurant is opening in several new cities, including:

• Nashville, Tennessee
• Orlando, Florida
• Seattle, Washington
• Scottsdale, Arizona
• Charlotte, North Carolina

There’s also buzz about possible international openings in Canada and the UK.

What Are People Saying?

Customer reviews across platforms like Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Google are mostly glowing. Words like “unforgettable,” “delicious,” and “first-class” come up again and again.

A few common themes:

• Meat lovers are obsessed.
• Vegetarians still enjoy the Market Table.
• Service is quick and friendly.
• Some say weekend crowds can get noisy, so reservations are a must.

Tips Before You Go

If you’re planning to visit a Fogo de Chão restaurant soon, here are a few tips:

• Make a reservation online—especially for weekends or holidays.
• Go hungry—this is not a meal to take lightly!
• Try to sample all the meats before asking for seconds.
• Save room for the Papaya Cream dessert—a house favorite.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a long-time fan or have never visited, Fogo de Chão restaurant is more than just a steakhouse—it’s an immersive dining experience. With its rapid expansion and commitment to authenticity, it’s no surprise that Fogo is becoming a household name across the U.S.

If you’re near a location or one is opening soon in your city, this might just be your new favorite spot for date nights, family dinners, or simply indulging in a meaty feast.

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