Fogo de Chão Brea Review: The Ultimate Brazilian Steakhouse Experience

One of the standout features at Fogo de Chão was their dry-aging meat display. Right near the kitchen, we saw large cuts of beef aging in temperature-controlled glass cases, bathed in a glowing red light that made them look even more premium.

Before diving into the meal, we took a look at the Fogo de Chão menu, which showcased an array of Brazilian churrasco options, indulgent cuts, and a well-stocked Market Table. The Full Churrasco Experience caught our eye, featuring endless fire-roasted meats and classic Brazilian sides.

We went all in for the Full Churrasco Experience ($51.50 per person), which included an endless selection of Brazilian meats like picanha, filet mignon, lamb chops, and more. The servers or maybe chefs, not exactly sure of their title but they came by one after another, slicing perfectly seasoned cuts right onto customer's plates - it was like a meat parade!

The Famous Fogo Dining Style

If you've never been to Fogo de Chão before, let me introduce you to one of the best parts: the green and red coasters. Each person gets a coaster with a green "Yes, Please" side and a red "No, Thanks" side. If you want the servers to keep bringing you fresh, fire-roasted meat, just keep it green. Need a breather? Flip it to red. Simple, effective, and honestly, a little dangerous for those of us who can’t say no to more steak!

The Appetizer: A Warm Welcome to Brazilian Cuisine

Before diving into the full feast, we were served pão de queijo, Brazil's famous cheese bread. These warm, cheesy bites were crispy on the outside and soft on the inside—definitely a delicious way to start the meal!

The Market Table: A Fresh Start

We started by walking to the Market Table, where we could grab salads, rice, and other fresh sides. The first stop was getting our plates, stacked neatly and ready for us to fill up with a variety of options.

The Market Table had an impressive selection of fresh salads, dressings, and toppings. From crisp greens to creamy dressings, there was something for everyone to enjoy before diving into the main course.

We also found a variety of pickled and marinated sides, including pickled red onions, jalapeños, and fresh pineapple, adding extra flavor to our plates.

Another unique offering was the hearts of palm, a Brazilian delicacy that was light, refreshing, and perfect as a starter.

The Market Table also featured an assortment of Brazilian-inspired salads and sides, including black bean pasta, quinoa tabbouleh, marinated mushrooms, and an array of tropical fruits like starfruit and papaya.

Another highlight of the Market Table was the roasted vegetable selection, featuring asparagus, artichoke hearts, and grilled zucchini, all beautifully seasoned and ready to complement the meal.

For those looking for a heartier side, we found the Brazilian feijoada, a traditional black bean stew packed with savory flavors, alongside a soup that I think was Carrot Ginger Soup—but I’m not 100% sure!

Beyond the fresh salads, the Market Table also had a variety of marinated and roasted vegetables. The roasted peppers were slightly sweet with a smoky flavor, while the sun-dried tomatoes added a rich, tangy bite.

For those who enjoy charcuterie, the selection did not disappoint. There were cured meats like salami, mortadella, and prosciutto, perfectly paired with mustards, pickled onions, and capers.

My First Plate: A Balanced Start

Before the parade of meats began, I started with a plate of white rice, Caesar salad, Brazilian potato salad, and creamy corn salad. It was a refreshing way to prepare for the feast ahead. 

And, of course, I had to try their famous Brazilian Lemonade, a creamy, tangy, and refreshing drink that paired perfectly with everything on my plate.

Now, this is what we all came for, the fire-roasted meats! One of the highlights was what I believe was picanha, the signature Brazilian steak with a beautiful fat cap, cooked to perfection. But honestly, they kept bringing so many different cuts of meat that it was hard to keep track! 

The servers sliced it right at our table, asking us how we preferred our cuts, mild, medium, or well-done.

Another favorite was the bacon-wrapped chicken, a smoky, juicy bite packed with flavor. The combination of crispy bacon with the tender chicken made this a hit.

And let’s not forget the juicy, tender prime rib, cooked to perfection with just the right balance of pink and seared edges.

A Perfect End: Cappuccino and Dessert

After all the amazing food, I needed something warm to wrap up the meal, so I ordered a cappuccino. It came with a frothy top and a rich, bold espresso flavor. The foam was light and airy, balancing out the strong coffee perfectly. It was a great way to settle after all the endless meats and Market Table goodies.

Since our coworker’s birthday was the day before, we let the server know, and they surprised her with a complimentary cheesecake brûlée! Of course, I had to help her eat it. The cheesecake was creamy with a caramelized sugar crust that gave it a slight crunch. It was served with fresh berries that added the perfect touch of sweetness and tartness. A delicious and thoughtful way to end the meal!

I had to take a photo of my coworker’s dessert choice because it looked absolutely decadent. It was a Molten Chocolate Cake, drizzled with I think caramel sauce, not 100% sure since I didn't try it, and served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm, gooey chocolate paired with the cold, creamy ice cream made it a dream combination.

Final Thoughts: Worth the Hype?

Fogo de Chão in Brea lived up to the expectations and then some. The atmosphere was modern and classy, the service was top-notch, and the food was nonstop delicious. If you’re looking for a place to celebrate a win at work, a birthday, or just your love for steak, this is the spot.

We left happy, full, and ready for a nap, which, unfortunately, was not on the work schedule. But hey, we’d say our Christmas decor win was well celebrated!