Fogo de Chao

Fogo de Chão is a well-established Brazilian steakhouse that brings the traditional Southern Brazilian style of churrasco to a global audience. The company began in 1979 as a single restaurant in Porto Alegre, Brazil, founded by Arri and Jair Coser alongside Jorge and Aleixo Ongaratto. Over the years, Fogo de Chão has grown from its rural roots into a recognized international brand, with its first U.S. restaurant opening in Addison, Texas, in 1997. This move marked the start of its expansion beyond Brazil, setting the stage for significant growth in major cities worldwide.

As of November 2025, Fogo de Chão operates approximately 80 locations across the United States, Brazil, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. The brand is especially visible in urban centers and high-traffic retail areas, targeting cities such as Atlanta, Dallas, New York, Miami, Chicago, and Los Angeles. Recent announcements include new restaurants in Atlanta and ongoing development in the Middle East and Latin America, reflecting a clear focus on both domestic and international growth.

The dining experience at Fogo de Chão centers on continuous tableside service of fire-roasted meats, complemented by a gourmet Market Table and a lively bar featuring Brazilian-inspired cocktails. In response to evolving consumer preferences, the company has introduced takeout, delivery, and catering options, as well as expanded its digital presence and branded merchandise offerings. This adaptability has allowed Fogo de Chão to reach a broader customer base while maintaining its core identity.

A pivotal moment for the company came in 2023, when Bain Capital acquired Fogo de Chão for $1.1 billion. This partnership has provided additional resources to support the brand’s accelerated expansion and innovation efforts. The company remains privately held and does not franchise its locations, maintaining direct control over operations and quality.

Fogo de Chão’s consistent growth, strong brand recognition, and ability to adapt its restaurant format for a variety of urban and mixed-use environments have made it a sought-after tenant in the commercial real estate sector. Its ongoing expansion and operational track record offer landlords, brokers, and developers a reliable anchor that draws steady traffic and elevates the overall dining mix in high-profile settings.