Oklahoma City welcomes Fogo de Chão, a new Brazilian steakhouse

Published Thursday, August 8, 2024
by Selena Romero

Oklahoma City's culinary scene has become more vibrant with the grand opening of Fogo de Chão, an upscale Brazilian steakhouse renowned for its hand-carved meats and seasonal market table. The new restaurant, located at Pennsylvania Avenue in Memorial Square, spans 8,439 square feet and includes outdoor and enclosed patio areas, along with a dry-aged meat locker for in-house aging. 

The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber welcomed Fogo de Chão with a ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring opening remarks from Melissa Pepper, the Chamber's vice president of membership. Pepper expressed enthusiasm for the new addition, stating, “Oklahoma City’s robust economic growth and increasing disposable income among residents make it an ideal location for thriving restaurants. We are certainly thrilled to have Fogo de Chão included in our culinary scene. The high quality of life in Oklahoma City, with its mix of amenities and a community feel, makes it an attractive place for both restaurateurs and diners.” 

In a generous show of community spirit, Fogo de Chão donated more than $21,000 to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma during the event. For every dollar donated, the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma typically provides three meals. However, through September 30, donations are being matched dollar-for-dollar, meaning each dollar will provide six meals. Thanks to this matching opportunity, Fogo de Chão's donation will result in a total impact of $42,000, providing 126,000 meals for Oklahomans in need.  

“We look forward to opening in Oklahoma and bringing the Culinary Art of Churrasco to guests seeking an unforgettable dining experience,” said Barry McGowan, chief executive officer of Fogo de Chão. "At Fogo, we’ve always been focused on feeding our guests and communities; that’s why we’re excited to collaborate with the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, which supports so many in Oklahoma City and throughout the state.” 

Fogo de Chão is not just another restaurant. The founders, who grew up on a Southern Brazilian farm, learned the art of churrasco grilling—a tradition that has become the cornerstone of the restaurant’s legacy. Their first establishment in Porto Alegre, built of wood and nestled in the countryside, emerged from a dedication to quality and cultural respect. The Fogo concept made its U.S. debut in Dallas in 1997 and has since expanded to 29 locations across Brazil and the U.S. by 2013. 

The Oklahoma City location is the fourth churrascaria-style Brazilian steakhouse in the area, offering a unique dining experience with proteins grilled over an open flame and served by gauchos. The central salad and sides bar features seasonal salads, cured meats, antipasti, feijoada and more. 

Guests can also indulge in premium add-ons like a 32-ounce long-bone tomahawk ribeye, aged for a minimum of 42 days, a 20-ounce wagyu New York strip, or à la carte seafood options including jumbo shrimp, lobster and crab. 

Pepper also highlighted the broader impact, noting that “A growing population, driven by the city’s attractive cost of living and job opportunities, means more potential customers. Major attractions like Bricktown, Chisholm Creek, the Oklahoma City National Memorial, and various annual events draw visitors, boosting the restaurant industry.” 

The opening of Fogo de Chão is a significant addition to Oklahoma City's restaurant landscape, celebrating its culinary traditions and contributing to local charitable causes. Welcome to Oklahoma City, Fogo de Chão! 

This story originally ran on VeloCityOKC.com.

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