5/11/07
http://www.brazilgrillrestaurant.com/
Location: 1201 S.W. 12th Ave, Portland, Or. 97205
Parking may be difficult but I was able to park within 3 blocks. This area is near downtown Portland.
Food: Good to excellent. All of the meats on the stick were very flavorful. The pork and chicken wrapped with bacon were a little dry. The red meats were very juicy, some are on the rare side so make sure to ask for the edge pieces if you want them more done. All of the shrimp I had but two were excellent, not overcooked at all. You must try the chicken heart at least once. Great selection on the salad bar, some are vegetarian friendly (tropical fruit salad, heart of palm salad). Great selection of side dishes and bar menu also for the vegetarian. To me, the best part of the "meat on the stick" is the grilled pineapple. Save some room for this!!
Service: 99% excellent, 1% good. A couple of the gauchos were overzealous in offering their meat on the stick, but very good natured about it. Other than that very minor issue, attentive waitresses and great service and banter from the gauchos.
Atmosphere: friendly, homey, not too formal/stiff. Definitely not for toddlers with all of those knives and sharp sticks. Fresh flowers on the table adds to the atmosphere. Very friendly staff.
Tips: Great drinks (or so I was told). Try the Caipirinhas (traditional Brazilian drink made with lime and sugar and liquor). Light eater or vegetarian can order the salad bar, side dishes or bar menu (polenta fries, etc).
