Brazil Serves Chicago in Film and Food

The 54th Chicago International Film Festival ended as a big success this year. Trophies were handed out along the way with newfound attention to smaller works thanks to the festival. There were 124 feature films and 51 shorts from 58 countries presented with many being sold out.

The red carpets before some of the screenings brought in big names such as Viola Davis, Liam Neeson, Michelle Rodriguez and Regina Taylor.

Actress Carey Mulligan took home the Artistic Achievement Award and spoke at AMC River East 21 before her film Wildlife, "This is an excting time in America for equality and all rights. The representation at the festival is really good and improving year by year. I'm a champion for LGBT rights."

Gay films that stood out included Kenya's Rafiki and Brazil's Hard Paint who both took home the Silver Q-Hugo Award.

Keep up at ChicagoFilmFestival.com for next next year's plans.

Nearby restaurant Texas de Brazil proved to be a good spot to unwind after the stress of the star power at the festival. In Chicago, The Brazilian steakhouse, located at 210 East Upper Illinois St., is the place to fill up your tank. With glass views and a massive salad bar, there is a lot to take in even before the meat arrives.

For those that have not visited yet, prepare for a feast that stops only when you want it to. Sides and salada are offered along the way but save some room for the tableside experience where cuts of meat are served on skewers.

For those that like to try everything this can be a daunting task, but go slow and breathe. Don't forget dessert at the end with a tray to pick from and nothing to lose as they are all good.

Texas de Brazil just celebrated a 20th anniversary milestone so they must be doing something right and the chain continues to grow with new locations opening all the time.

Plan a trip there today with a meal that feels like a vacation. More information can be found at TexasdeBrazil.com.