by Dennis Richardson | Sep 20, 2023
Discover Culinary Bliss in Surf City
Fogo de Chão, the globally-celebrated luxury Brazilian restaurant, is now ready to welcome epicurean connoisseurs of Huntington Beach. Located on the vibrant Beach Boulevard (7901 Edinger Ave.), and nestled within the bustling Bella Terra shopping haven, this culinary sensation opened on Monday, September 25. Marking its triumphant entry into Surf City, this culinary haven is the second in Orange County, complementing its sibling at the Irvine Spectrum Center.
Fogo de Chão’s culinary influence extends far and wide, with other LA-area locations in Pasadena, Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Woodland Hills, and El Segundo. As if that’s not enough, the brand is riding high on its fourth consecutive year of impressive 15% annual growth, with Southern California expansion plans in the pipeline.
A Gesture of Goodwill: Fogo de Chão Gives Back to Huntington Beach
In a heartwarming gesture of community integration, Fogo de Chão is dedicating a portion of its first week’s sales to Robyne’s Nest, a noble organization that empowers underprivileged students to complete their high school journey successfully. And that’s not all! Additionally, the brand has teamed up with Eduardo Escobar, the Los Angeles Angels’ stellar third baseman and Fogo enthusiast, to host a community meal event on September 28th. Over 1,000 individuals in need will be treated to a wholesome and hearty meal. Escobar will grace the occasion with his presence, standing side by side with the local Fogo team as they welcome him to his new Orange County home.
“We’re excited to expand our footprint in Orange County and to continue to share the Culinary Art of Churrasco with food explorers who are seeking new discoveries in Surf City soon,” said Barry McGowan, Chief Executive Officer of Fogo de Chão. “As we grow our brand in new and existing cities globally, we remain dedicated to serving our local communities as we have for the past 45 years. That’s why we’re excited to collaborate with Robyne’s Nest and Eduardo Escobar who bring support to so many throughout Huntington Beach and beyond.”
A Glimpse Inside Fogo de Chão Huntington Beach
Crafted in collaboration with the world-renowned architecture and design agency Harrison, Fogo de Chão’s new Huntington Beach venue is a sensory masterpiece. The expansive dining room revolves around an open churrasco grill, where guests can relish their meals while observing the gaucho chefs’ mesmerizing dance of butchering, preparing, and grilling various cuts of protein over an open flame. The establishment also boasts an inviting outdoor dining patio, towering wine cases, a pristine white Carrara marble Market Table, on-site dry-aged meat lockers, an exuberant indoor Bar Fogo area for all-day happy hours, and exclusive private dining spaces to elevate any occasion.
At the helm of the Huntington Beach team is General Manager Cristiano Machado, a Fogo veteran with a twelve-year journey that began as a gaucho chef in Las Vegas. Cristiano’s illustrious career has seen him ascend through various leadership roles, from gaucho to gaucho trainer and assistant manager. Cristiano and his dedicated team are thrilled to become an integral part of the Huntington Beach community and are set to provide over 100 employment opportunities for talented individuals committed to delivering an extraordinary dining experience to all patrons.
Fogo Huntington Beach offers a range of menu selections and prices to fit guests’ needs for lunch and dinner, including:
• Full Churrasco Experience – The signature prix-fixe menu selection that includes all premium and classic cuts, plus the fresh and seasonal Market Table & Feijoada Bar and authentic Brazilian side dishes.
• Indulgent Cuts – Guests can enhance their experience with a 20 oz. Wagyu New York Strip that is carved tableside on a Himalayan salt block to complement the cut’s intense marbling and buttery texture. A decadent, dry-aged 32 oz. Long Bone Tomahawk Ribeye or 24 oz. Wagyu Ribeye is also available to order for the table.
In addition to these options, the menu also includes the following:
• Weekday Lunch – Includes the seasonal Market Table & Feijoada Bar, plus family-style service of Brazilian side dishes for $18 per person. Guests may choose to add a single cut of fire-roasted meat or have the Full Churrasco Experience.
• Weekend Brazilian Brunch – Includes the Full Churrasco Experience combined with Brazilian-inspired brunch items like Braised Beef Rib Hash and made-to-order waffle and omelet stations.
• All-Day Happy Hour – Guests can enjoy $10 Brazilian-inspired cocktails, $8 glasses of South American wines, and $5 Beer all-day every day, in the dining room, patio and bar.
• Bar Fogo – The Huntington Beach bar offers an elevated experience with a warm, timeless design and dedicated bar staff designed to allow guests to linger while enjoying smaller, shareable plates like a Picanha Burger or Lobster & Shrimp Tacos.
• Inclusive Menu Options — Guests can discover options for all dietary tribes from vegan to pescatarian and more. These nutrient-dense dishes include entrée alternatives to the Churrasco experience like Chilean Sea Bass, Seared Tofu & Black Bean Pasta and Cauliflower Steak, or indulgent appetizer options like jumbo shrimp cocktail and Seafood Tower.
• Fogo To-Go & Catering — Bring the Fogo experience home with individual churrasco entrees, à la carte offerings, full-service catered events with on-site grilling and ready-to-eat or ready-to-grill options.
• Group and Private Dining — Whether celebrating a special birthday or hosting a corporate meeting, the Huntington Beach location has a dedicated sales manager and offers customizable menus, beautiful private and semi-private dining spaces and complimentary A/V equipment.
A dining experience for all ages, children six and under enjoy complimentary dining at Fogo Huntington Beach, and ages seven to twelve dine at half-price for the Full Churrasco Experience. Fogo de Chão Huntington Beach is located at 7901 Edinger Ave.
by Randy Dunbar | Sep 19, 2023
The enduring writer’s strike has certainly put Hollywood movies on hold—so it is a good time to look at what the city and movies have in common. This is, to be clear, the shortlist, for this list could go on and on, but we take a brief look at some of our favorites—
Los Angeles has played a prominent role in countless movies, serving as both a backdrop and a character in its own right. Here are some notable films that showcase the city:
- Blade Runner (1982) – Directed by Ridley Scott, this iconic science fiction film depicts a dystopian Los Angeles in the year 2019. Its dark, rain-soaked streets and futuristic skyline have become synonymous with the city’s portrayal in futuristic settings.
- La La Land (2016) – Damien Chazelle’s musical romantic comedy celebrates the magic of Los Angeles. The film showcases various famous locations, including Griffith Observatory, Hermosa Beach Pier, and the Warner Bros. Backlot.
- Chinatown (1974) – Roman Polanski’s neo-noir classic is set in 1937 Los Angeles and explores the corruption and intrigue surrounding the city’s water supply. The film captures the gritty, sun-drenched streets of old Los Angeles.
- Pulp Fiction (1994) – Quentin Tarantino’s acclaimed film features various locations in and around Los Angeles, giving viewers a taste of the city’s diverse neighborhoods.
- Training Day (2001) – This crime thriller, directed by Antoine Fuqua, provides a gritty portrayal of Los Angeles’ criminal underworld. Much of the film takes place in some of the city’s tougher neighborhoods.
- The Big Lebowski (1998) – The Coen Brothers’ cult classic is set in Los Angeles and features a quirky cast of characters navigating the city’s diverse landscapes, from Venice Beach to the Hollywood Hills.
- Heat (1995) – Michael Mann’s crime thriller showcases various Los Angeles locations, including the historic downtown area. The film’s iconic shootout scene takes place on the streets of downtown.
- Die Hard (1988) – While often associated with Christmas due to its holiday setting, this action-packed film is a quintessential example of the high-rise architecture and urban environment that defines parts of Los Angeles.
- Boyz n the Hood (1991) – John Singleton’s coming-of-age drama offers a glimpse into South Central Los Angeles in the late 1980s and early 1990s, addressing issues of race, violence, and socio-economic disparity.
- Mulholland Drive (2001) – David Lynch’s surreal mystery film is deeply rooted in the mystique of Los Angeles. The winding Mulholland Drive, a scenic route through the Hollywood Hills, plays a significant role in the narrative.
- Drive (2011) – Nicolas Winding Refn’s stylish neo-noir crime film captures the nighttime allure of Los Angeles, featuring its neon-lit streets and moody atmosphere.
- L.A. Confidential (1997) – This neo-noir crime film, directed by Curtis Hanson, is set in the 1950s and showcases a period-specific Los Angeles, complete with vintage cars and architecture.
These films not only provide a visual tour of Los Angeles but also often reflect the city’s unique atmosphere, cultural diversity, and its place in the collective imagination of filmmakers and audiences alike.
The enduring writer’s strike has certainly put Hollywood movies on hold—so it is a good time to look at what the city and movies have in common. This is, to be clear, the shortlist, for this list could go on and on, but we take s brief look at some of our favorites—
Los Angeles has played a prominent role in countless movies, serving as both a backdrop and a character in its own right. Here are some notable films that showcase the city:
- Blade Runner (1982) – Directed by Ridley Scott, this iconic science fiction film depicts a dystopian Los Angeles in the year 2019. Its dark, rain-soaked streets and futuristic skyline have become synonymous with the city’s portrayal in futuristic settings.
- La La Land (2016) – Damien Chazelle’s musical romantic comedy celebrates the magic of Los Angeles. The film showcases various famous locations, including Griffith Observatory, Hermosa Beach Pier, and the Warner Bros. Backlot.
- Chinatown (1974) – Roman Polanski’s neo-noir classic is set in 1937 Los Angeles and explores the corruption and intrigue surrounding the city’s water supply. The film captures the gritty, sun-drenched streets of old Los Angeles.
- Pulp Fiction (1994) – Quentin Tarantino’s acclaimed film features various locations in and around Los Angeles, giving viewers a taste of the city’s diverse neighborhoods.
- Training Day (2001) – This crime thriller, directed by Antoine Fuqua, provides a gritty portrayal of Los Angeles’ criminal underworld. Much of the film takes place in some of the city’s tougher neighborhoods.
- The Big Lebowski (1998) – The Coen Brothers’ cult classic is set in Los Angeles and features a quirky cast of characters navigating the city’s diverse landscapes, from Venice Beach to the Hollywood Hills.
- Heat (1995) – Michael Mann’s crime thriller showcases various Los Angeles locations, including the historic downtown area. The film’s iconic shootout scene takes place on the streets of downtown.
- Die Hard (1988) – While often associated with Christmas due to its holiday setting, this action-packed film is a quintessential example of the high-rise architecture and urban environment that defines parts of Los Angeles.
- Boyz n the Hood (1991) – John Singleton’s coming-of-age drama offers a glimpse into South Central Los Angeles in the late 1980s and early 1990s, addressing issues of race, violence, and socio-economic disparity.
- Mulholland Drive (2001) – David Lynch’s surreal mystery film is deeply rooted in the mystique of Los Angeles. The winding Mulholland Drive, a scenic route through the Hollywood Hills, plays a significant role in the narrative.
- Drive (2011) – Nicolas Winding Refn’s stylish neo-noir crime film captures the nighttime allure of Los Angeles, featuring its neon-lit streets and moody atmosphere.
- L.A. Confidential (1997) – This neo-noir crime film, directed by Curtis Hanson, is set in the 1950s and showcases a period-specific Los Angeles, complete with vintage cars and architecture.
These films not only provide a visual tour of Los Angeles but also often reflect the city’s unique atmosphere, cultural diversity, and its place in the collective imagination of filmmakers and audiences alike.
by Contributor | Sep 13, 2023
With near-endless sunshine, world-class theme parks and abundant outdoor experiences, California is an ideal destination to embark on an unforgettable adventure.
To make it easy for travelers to plan their trips, the 2023 California Road Trips guide includes 13 action-packed itineraries that begin and end at one of the state’s 27 commercial airports, highlighting how easy it is to fly into any region of the Golden State and hit the road.
“California’s natural beauty, diverse topography and culturally rich communities are the perfect backdrop for an epic road trip experience,” said Caroline Beteta, president and CEO of Visit California, a nonprofit organization that partners with the state’s travel industry to develop and maintain marketing programs that keep California top-of-mind as a premier travel destination. “This year’s guide showcases how the state’s vast network of international and regional airports provide travelers with convenient access to every corner of the California Road Trip Republic.”
The guide’s cover star, Dwyane Wade, a three-time NBA champion, dad and owner of Napa Valley winery Wade Cellars, moved to Los Angeles after his retirement in 2019. Wade said California granted him a soulful landscape and much-needed quiet time.
“I like to find moments where no one can expect anything of me and California allows me to have those moments,” Wade said. “I’ll drive to the beach and walk next to the water. I’ll drive all over to find those moments to connect with myself… I get my energy from that.”
While California’s world-renowned coastline provides a dramatic backdrop, adventures can be found in every region of the Golden State. Featured drives take travelers to both cities and classic small towns, family attractions and far-reaching, otherworldly landscapes. A few sample road trip itineraries include:
* “Animals, Desert and Offbeat Art” combines kid-friendly experiences like LEGOLAND California and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park with the rich arts culture and stargazing opportunities in Borrego Springs.
* “Cactus and Cocktails” explore both the cosmopolitan pleasures of Palm Springs and the rugged sceneries of Joshua Tree National Park and the Mojave National Preserve.
* “National Park Adventures” is a 412-mile adventure that begins at Fresno Yosemite Airport and explores the wonders of Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
* “Road to Gold” is a four-day trek that begins in Sacramento, explores Lake Tahoe and meanders back through Gold Country with photo opportunities at every turn.
* “Innovation and Agricultural Bounty” features a San Jose-based itinerary that showcases cutting-edge arts, charming seaside villages and bountiful farmlands on a 238-mile journey.
To order a guide, go to VisitCalifornia.com/Travel-Guides.
Photo courtesy of Visit California/Places We Swim
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Source: Visit California
by Dennis Richardson | Sep 13, 2023
It’s time to get your drink (and grub) on!
Prepare to indulge in a night of sheer cocktail delight as Fogo de Chão cordially invites you to their National Caipirinha Day Bar event! On Thursday, September 14th at 6:30 pm, embrace the fiesta of the year, happening at all Fogo locations nationwide — including across SoCal — from the glitz of LA to the charm of Woodland Hills.
For only $29, you can enjoy a myriad of caipirinha flavors, accompanied by an array of delectable Bar Bites, like Spiced Chicken Sliders, Queijo Assado, Brazilian Empanadas, and more — all in celebration of National Caipirinha Day (which actually falls on the 13th of September).
The caipirinha is the national cocktail of Brazil, and it’s made with only three simple ingredients: cachaça, lime and sugar. The refreshing elixir is a customizable masterpiece that has taken the world by storm, with viral videos showcasing its charm. But what is cachaça? It’s a distilled spirit born from the fresh-pressed juice of sugarcane, known as garapa—a delightful cousin to white rum, both in taste and origin.
Fogo de Chão, the celebrated Brazilian restaurant boasting over 70 locations, has been a trendsetter for 25 glorious years. They’ve not only embraced the classic caipirinha but have infused it with extraordinary flavors, including the bold notes of strawberry hibiscus and the fiery kick of mango habanero. Caipirinhas have become such a hit among guests that in addition to serving them in Bar Fogo, Fogo de Chão goes the extra mile by wheeling a mobile caipirinha cart right to your table to keep up with the demand!
Raise a glass and toast to Brazil’s spirit at Fogo de Chão’s National Caipirinha Day Bar event, by reserving here!
