Master the different cuts of meat served at rodizio restaurants. Understand the characteristics, flavors, and best practices for each cut.
Brazil's most beloved cut. Picanha is a premium cut from the top of the sirloin with a distinctive fat cap. It's tender, flavorful, and offers a perfect balance of lean meat and marbling. The fat cap adds incredible flavor when grilled over open flame. Always try the picanha—it's considered the signature cut of any quality steakhouse.
Flavor profile: Rich, beefy, slightly sweet. The fat renders beautifully.
Best for: Anyone wanting to experience authentic Brazilian churrasco.
The most tender cut available, filet mignon is premium beef from the loin. Brazilian steakhouses often serve it wrapped in bacon to add flavor and prevent drying. This is the most expensive cut but worth every penny for its incredible tenderness.
Flavor profile: Mild, delicate, buttery. The bacon wrap adds richness.
Best for: Those who prefer tenderness above all else. A must-try premium cut.
A beautifully marbled cut from the rib section with excellent flavor and tenderness. Ribeye offers more marbling than filet mignon, meaning more natural flavor and juiciness. It's perfect for those who love a bit of fat.
Flavor profile: Rich, robust, beefy with excellent marbling.
Best for: Meat lovers who appreciate good marbling and full flavor.
Cut from the short loin, strip steak is a classic steakhouse cut with less marbling than ribeye but still plenty of flavor. It's leaner and offers a firmer bite, making it a favorite for those who prefer a cleaner taste.
Flavor profile: Clean, beefy, slightly peppery undertones.
Best for: Those who want flavor without excessive fat.
Tender lamb chops served at rodizio are absolutely delicious. They're typically herb-seasoned and grilled to perfection. Lamb offers a completely different flavor profile from beef—gamier, more delicate, and incredibly flavorful.
Flavor profile: Delicate, slightly gamey, herbal.
Best for: Adventurous eaters and those who love lamb.
A coarse-ground sausage with spices and a smoky flavor. It's different from Italian sausage and offers a nice contrast to the pure beef cuts. Great for variety in your meal.
Most rodizio restaurants offer grilled chicken breast or thighs. It's a lighter option if you want to pace yourself through the meal.
Many rodizios grill pineapple on skewers. The natural sugars caramelize, creating a sweet, juicy complement to the savory meats. It's refreshing and helps cleanse the palate.