Brazilian cuisine offers a lot regional variety. Steak and meat are popular among gauchos (South American cowboys), while people in coastal communities eat seafood. Norfolk has restaurants that specialize in both, giving diners the opportunity to experience a range of authentic dishes.
Located in a historic downtown building, Espeto na Brasa features an elegant multi-storied dining room with a dramatic mahogany interior. It specializes in traditional churrascaria, or Brazilian barbecue with several varieties of skewered meats and vegetables that are marinated with spices and herbs, and fire-roasted.
There is an all-you-can-eat menu, while waiters bring skewers of beef, chicken, lamb, pork and sausage to the table to slice the desired portion directly on your plate. Rice, black beans and a variety of sides and salads round out the meal.
Espeto na Brasa
233 Granby St.
Norfolk, VA 23510
757-313-4363
espetonabrasa.com
The Imperio Inca specializes in authentic South American dishes. The atmosphere is casual and cozy. The menu offers a range of Brazilian and Peruvian dishes, with an emphasis on seafood. A ceviche bar features several types of fish salad that are marinated with citrus, herbs and spices.
The restaurant also serves mixta (a mix of seafood), steaks, chicken and other authentic dishes. Vegetarians options include fried yucca, plantains and salads on the menu.
Imperio Inca
723 W. 21st St.
Norfolk, VA 23517
757-486-4622
imperioinca.com
Located 10 miles from Norfolk, El Rincon is a laid-back restaurant and bar with an interesting, eclectic South American menu. It features Brazilian favorites, such as grilled steak and seafood empanadas, as well as Caribbean specialties like mofongo con pernil, a dish with pork and plantains. A fully stocked bar provides traditional Brazilian cocktails, like caipirinhas.
El Rincon Tropical Restaurant & Bar
4300 Holland Road
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
757-463-0003
elrincontropical.com
The tiny and popular Mojito Cafe is located in Virginia Beach, north of Norfolk. This mom-and-pop eatery is cozy and has a limited number of tables, so expect a wait.
The menu features an array of Latin dishes, including empanadas filled with cheese and spicy chorizo sausage and skirt steak topped with chimichurri, or a South American variation on pesto. Mojito Cafe also serves a few Brazilian beers.
Mojito Cafe
300 28th St.
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
757-233-6855
