New Brazilian Steakhouse Opening Soon in Lewiston, Maine

A Brazilian steakhouse is very different from an American steakhouse.

When you think of a steakhouse, you might think of Longhorn or even Outback. But a Brazilian steakhouse is more of a barbecue. The Sun Journal notes that "churrasco" is the Portuguese word for barbecue. A churrascaria in Brazil and other Portuguese-speaking countries is where you go to eat a very popular style of grilled meats.

The above picture is from Bonissoni in Ogunquit. They are an award-winning Brazilian steakhouse, and a bit more on the fancy side. Food Point will be in Lewiston, and you can leave the fancy clothes at home. It's about eating good food and being comfortable. It's very close to being open, and a recent trip showed that the signs were up and painting was done!

This is a small restaurant with enough seating for around 55 guests. But it's split into two areas: a buffet and bar. The Sun Journal spoke with the owner, Rita Ferreira, who they described as "very outgoing and excited." She's from Luanda, Angola, the capital of a former Portuguese colony. She had a similar steakhouse there. This isn't where men carry around a big skewer of meat and cut it at your table. This is all buffet-style, and the cutting has already been done. But they will have beef, lamb, pork, chicken, and homemade Portuguese sausage. You had me at lamb. Don't worry, vegetarians, they have salads, soups, bean dishes, and plenty of vegetarian dishes.

Will there be specialty drinks?

Yes! According to the Sun Journal, caipirinhas will be the specialty house cocktail. That's a drink that is normally made from a Brazilian rum made from sugar cane called cachaca. They will make theirs with traditional lime juice or passion fruit, strawberry, or mucua juice.

Since the owner is a big fan of chocolate, she plans to make her own desserts. They are in the process of hiring, and hope to open before Memorial Day. Stay tuned and get ready, Lewiston!