Wed. December 22, 2021
By Jerry Nunn
Fogo de Chao is a Brazilian steakhouse headquartered in Plano, Texas that is now finally arriving in Oak Brook, Illinois just in time for the holidays. This makes the fourth Fogo in the Chicago area and it is plain to see why it is such a success.
Upon entering the newly opened premises at 1204 22nd Street guests will see how open and welcoming this Fogo in particular is. Huge windows cover the building making a stark contrast to the downtown location at 661 N LaSalle Drive. The Chicago location is more of a dark immersive experience while Oak Brook allows the sunshine in.
They both have the same attentive service that one would expect from the churrascaria chain. If this is your first time visiting Fogo don't worry, your server will guide you through the a la carte menu or explain how tableside dining works.
The massive seasonal market table salad bar can be sold separately or included with the meal depending on preference. Other additions include an impressive cocktail list that includes a traditional Brazilian caipirinha or mix it up with a caramelized pineapple old-fashioned. Wines cover a wide region of vineyards from Chile to Argentina. Desserts are sometimes overlooked after such an enormous meal, but save room for the chocolate brigadeiro that pairs well with coffee.
Fogo de Chao means ground fire in English and this location turns up the heat in innovative new ways. The meats are roasted with an open kitchen concept this time out instead of being hidden behind closed doors. Glass is sometimes used as a barrier for the back area but not in this case, spectators can now see behind the scenes more than ever.
Gaucho refers not only to wide-legged pants but also to the cowhands in the southern part of Brazil. These cowboys cart their long skewers around the dining room looking for cards on the table flipped from red to green to signify appetite and will ask if patrons would like a particular cut and temperature of meat ranging from chicken, lamb and beef. Picanha is a special cut from the rump and a hands-down favorite to many that partake in this mouth-watering adventure.
Overall, the new Oak Brook location is a welcome addition to the Fogo franchise and fits right in with its high-end surroundings. Just wait until spring when this spacious patio opens up and people can pretend they are in breezy Brazil with the open air!
Head out to the corner of 22nd and Spring Road in the beautiful Oak Brook Commons area to experience everything Fogo de Chao has to offer. Visit FogodeChao.com to make a reservation and find out more information.
The owners have been successful since 1979 and show no signs of stopping anytime soon!
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