February 09, 2011

Fogo de Chao

I respect vegetarians... and vegans - especially vegans! ;)
That said, I could never be one.
I could never betray the carnivore's heaven that is Fogo de Chao.

Green, green, green!

Cheese balls.

I'm convinced these little cheese devils are crack-laced. Notwithstanding the addictive factor, I'm intrigued about how they're made. If you know the secret, please share!

Creamy mashed potatoes.

Baked plaintains.

Polenta squares.

Whenever you eat at a Brazillian churrascaria (aka - all-you-can-eat meat party), you must have a game plan. Generally, that game plan involves eating enough meat to last you several months. Or... maybe that's just my game plan. Regardless, you need to be ready and focused. Don't be distracted by the above four items that the servers will readily replenish throughout your meal. As tasty as they are, they'll sing your name before the meats arrive and lure you like the Sirens. Without a doubt, you'll give in 'cause you're hungry, but don't give in too easily! (especially for those cheesy suckers - God help us all). Save room for meat, save room for dessert. Practice self-control. Practice endurance. This is a marathon, not a sprint.

... hm, have I intimidated you yet?
Anyway.

Balance your meal with some colorful items.
There's also a great salad bar that you shouldn't avoid. Even if greens aren't your BFFs, it's a good idea to allocate a portion of your stomach for them.


MEATS.
via thelittledish

AH YES. The main event. Chow down, fellow carnivores. Let the succulent and buttery pieces melt into your mouth. Chew. But don't consume too quickly or else your stomach will freak out and feel ultra full before round two. To avoid this problem, accept a piece of whatever meat you wish when the servers make their first sweep around the tables, but don't be afraid to flip your coaster from green to red. Take your time and enjoy the deliciousness that's been presented and served to you.

And when you start to feel like you have enough meat to sustain you through a long and bitter winter (only as you know and understand, non-West Coasters) or as you begin to feel like your heart's going to pop out of your chest, it is time to stop, take a breather, and wait for the sweet finale.

Tres leches cake - probably my fave at Fogo.

Strawberry cheesecake.

Key lime pie.
Yes, three sweet finales.

A huge vat of wines. I need me one of these in my future house...

I do not exaggerate when I say Fogo de Chao is the best Brazilian churrascaria in LA.
While your wallet will be hurting as much as your stomach after the whole affair, you're guaranteed a solid and delicious meal. Quality AND quantity? Win, win!



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Cuisine: Brazilian
location: Beverly Hills
hours: Mon-Fri: 11:30 AM -2:00 PM; 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
prices: Lunch - $34.50; Dinner - $56.50
website: { Fogo | yelp }
attire: Casual
parking: Valet
notes:  Have a game plan. Stick to it.