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Fogo de Chao

Chicago, Illinois, United States

Fogo de Chao is a Brazilian steakhouse, and eating here is quite the experience! At $48.50/person, it's not the cheapest place to have dinner, but it's definitely a memorable event.

The Disks

Two-sided disks

When you are seated, you are presented with a 2-sided disk. The disks are pictured here. One side of the disk is red, and the other side is green. These disks are used to control the pace of your meal.

The Salad Bar

The Salad Bar

Before the meats are served, you are encouraged to visit the salad bar, where you will find a nice selection of salads and vegetables. You can re-visit the salad bar at any time during your meal.

The Meats

A piece of meat being cut and served

When you have finished with the salad bar, your plates are removed, and it is up to you to start with the meats. Throughout the meal, there are "Gaucho chefs" walking around. Each Gaucho carries a different cut of meat. When your disk is green, the Gaucho will stop at your table, tell you what type of meat he is carrying, and ask if you would like any.

There are currently fifteen different types and cuts of meat available (Mostly beef, with one or two chicken, pork, and lamb cuts). Fortunately, the Gaucho's cut small pieces of the meat off their piece, so if you pace yourself properly, you will have enough room to try them all.

The Gaucho often asks how well cooked you like your meat. They are often able to accommodate most requests, by cutting off a different piece of meat from the large piece they are carrying, but if they are not able to, don't despair - there are new pieces of meat always being cooked and circulated. Being somewhat flexible with the type of meat you like also helps.

Side Dishes

Side Dishes

In addition to the salad bar and the various types of meats being circulated, your table will be presented with four side dishes: buns, fried bananas, fried polenta, and seasoned mashed potatoes. When you finish one tray, you will be presented with another.

Dinner at Fogo de Chao is quite the event, but doesn't take an unreasonable amount of time, since there's very little waiting time. Allow approximately 1.5-2 hours for a complete dinner.

Cost

Caipirinha

The dinner is $48.50 per person. Drinks are also expensive - the Caipirinha pictured here was $8.95.

Dress

Business casual - nice pants and a button shirt. Suits are not necessary (although you could probably wear one and fit in).

Reservations

Reservations are strongly recommended.