Fogo de Chão

The story

Fogo de Chão San Antonio – Brazilian Steakhouse & Churrasco Tradition

The Fire of Southern Brazil

Fogo de Chão’s story begins in the mountainous countryside of Rio Grande do Sul, where the founding brothers grew up on a traditional farm, learning the art of churrasco over open flames. That heritage is alive at the San Antonio Riverwalk location, where gaucho chefs carve fire-roasted meats tableside in the same slow, restrained style that defines the cuisine of Southern Brazil. The restaurant calls it “the culinary art of churrasco” – a practice rooted in letting quality beef speak for itself, seasoned simply with rock salt and cooked over direct heat.

The Churrasco Experience

The centerpiece of every meal is the continuous service of more than a dozen cuts. The signature picanha – a prime part of the top sirloin – represents the soul of churrasco: lightly salted, thinly sliced, tender and robust. Other standouts include fraldinha (bottom sirloin, carved against the grain to preserve tenderness), costela (beef ribs slow-grilled for hours until the natural flavors emerge), and the bone-in ancho ribeye, whose marbling is broken down over direct heat for an intense, unforgettable texture. For those seeking something extraordinary, enhancements like a 36-ounce dry-aged Tomahawk Ancho or a Wagyu Porterhouse are available.

Beyond the meats, the Market Table offers a fresh, vibrant counterpoint, and Bar Fogo introduces Brazilian-inspired small plates and cocktails. The restaurant’s wine program earned a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence in 2010, reflecting a carefully curated list that pairs naturally with the robust flavors of the grill – think Napa Cabs or Chilean favorites like Don Melchor.

A Tradition That Travels

Fogo de Chão first opened in Porto Alegre, Brazil, in 1979, then expanded to São Paulo before loyal American guests urged the founders to bring the concept stateside. The San Antonio Riverwalk location is part of that legacy, offering the full churrasco experience in a setting that balances the warmth of the gaucho tradition with the energy of a modern steakhouse. Whether you’re here for a four-course dinner or simply to experience the fire of churrasco, Fogo de Chão keeps the flames burning.