Restaurant of the Month: Fazenda.
Football, samba, bossa nova, and more recently, rodizio - the Brazilian art of skillfully barbecuing various cuts of meat - are just a few reasons why our affection for this remarkable country endures. Embracing this beloved Brazilian tradition of churrasco is Fazenda restaurant in Bishopsgate, which serves this authentic Brazilian feast throughout the year.
Conveniently located a short distance from Liverpool Street, Fazenda describes itself as a fusion of traditional Brazilian and Argentine culinary delights with a contemporary twist. Bringing the essence of Brazil to London, this establishment has been making waves since its inception in 2023. With long-standing branches in Edinburgh, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester and Birmingham, Fazenda Bishopsgate has quickly cemented its reputation as the premier rodizio in London.
Renowned for its intimate atmosphere, the restaurant features dark wood tables, low lighting, and plush leather seating, creating a cozy yet sophisticated dining experience. Spanning two floors, the main dining area is perched on the second floor, while the bar, Fino, lounges on the first. On your way to the restaurant, make a pit stop for a pre-dinner cocktail. We highly recommend The Sour Birdie, a tangy yet sophisticated twist on a pisco sour, or the Coconut Collins, a silky and crystal-clear reimagining of a piña colada.
At Fazenda, you have the autonomy to control your portion sizes, so it’s crucial to gauge your appetite wisely. Begin your culinary journey with single-bite amuse-bouche starters. The Bolinho de Bacalhau, a delightful combination of cod, potato, and lemon, is a standout. Equally impressive are the Gordal & Kalamata spherification olives, a masterclass in molecular gastronomy and a signature dish from the resident chef, whose résumé includes a stint at the renowned El Bulli restaurant in Spain. From the small plates menu, the Queen scallops with moqueca sauce, coconut, and Farofa offer a delectable homage to the finest Brazilian cuisine. The giant king prawn with spicy chimichurri is a formidable dish, packing a punch in both size and flavour.
The true excitement however, begins when you signal to the passador - the meat servers - that you are ready for the Rodizio experience. Fazenda boasts an impressive selection of 15 different types of meat, including a Special Cut selected by their executive chef. Indulge in cuts including wagyu beef, spicy sausage, lamb cutlets, and beef tenderloin. A pro tip: Picanha, a cut of beef from the top of the rump, is highly revered among churrasco enthusiasts for its unique flavour. When enjoying a rodizio, request the first cut of the picanha from the passador. All meats are accompanied by traditional roasted pineapple with cinnamon. Pair your meal with exquisite wines like the 2020 Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino, which features a captivating profile of cassis, clove, tobacco, dark berries, and spices that enhance the meat's flavours.
For sides, Fazenda continues the Brazilian and Argentine theme with offerings such as salted fries with chimichurri and Feijoada, a traditional Brazilian dish of black beans, chorizo, bacon, and piquillo peppers. The piquillo peppers infuse a touch of Argentine flair.
If you still have room for dessert, we recommend the Dulce de Leche Coulant with vanilla and caramelized chocolate. If you’re undecided, no one will fault you for opting for the Fazenda sweetbox, a charming assortment of five classic Argentine and Brazilian petit-fours. Simply delectable.
Reservations here: fazenda.co.uk/location/bishopsgate