Rich, meaty, and lusciously comforting, Brazilian cuisine is defined by its resourceful usage of South American staples like plantains and manioc to create heartwarming dishes also influenced by European, Japanese, and African history.
Such cozy delights come in the form of crisp Coxinha snacks, nourishing Feijoada stew, cheesy Pão de queijo, and divine desserts like luscious Brigadeiro- all of which go perfectly well with a creamy lemonade, or Brazil's national cocktail, the cachaça-forward caipirinha. To get a talented taste of all of these treats and more in San Francisco, definitely head to these culturally-authentic restaurants.
See also: Best SF Bay Area Nigerian Restaurants
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998 Indiana St / (650) 430-5910 / Website
Brazuca Grill is a Brazilian fusion food truck that can typically be located in the Dogpatch neighborhood. Spot their vibrantly colorful vehicle to become transported right to the country with popular Mexidão, or, Brazilian Style Fried Rice, or their Bowlzuca piled high with beans and a fried egg. Headed by Chef Fabio and wife Ana, this dynamic duo are diligently delivering flavors of their home country to all of their devoted hungry locals.
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3985 17th St / (415) 829-7915 / Website
Cafe de Casa is an absolutely cute and adorable eatery in the Castro neighborhood, peacefully tucked away by the railcar stop and Orphan Andy's. Bright, snug, and intimate, this is a fabulously relaxing stop to cozy up or start your morning with any of their freshmade coffees, juices, pastries, açaí bowls, or even their larger Feijoada or Galinhada portions!
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1252 Valencia St / (415) 641-3066 / Website
Located along Mission's bustling street is Cafe Valencia, a charming family-run business that elegantly offers respite from the lively outdoors with their premier coffee and authentically-sourced groceries. If you're craving a familiar taste or shopping ambience of home, Cafe Valencia has all your homesick cures on their shelves, all with an accompanying cup of fresh espresso.
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100 Channel St 17th Floor / (415) 757-1470 / Website
While this beloved Mission Bay rooftop has a greater Latin American influence, many of their modern Brazilian offerings boast elevated (literally) reimaginings that still retain their familiar nostalgia. Their Bohlinhos de Bacalhau, or salted cod fritters or flaky Pastel de Carne with divine braised beef make for perfect snacks to enjoy while at this captivatingly scenic hotspot. They'll also entice you to wash them down with Cavana's classic Caipirinha- strictly retain the original recipe to honor its status as Brazil's national drink!
See also: An Inside Look At Cavaña, Mission Bay's Hottest New Rooftop Oasis
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1686 Market St / (415) 552-8792 / Website
Espetus Churrascaria is truly a household Bay Area name, having been a trusted beacon for true Southern Brazilian cuisine since 2003. With sharp white tablecloths, a warm wooden interior, and dazzling ambient lighting, this is a swanky steak spot renowned for their "all-you-can-eat" continuous tableside service, allowing you to feast with their other staple sides all for $70.95 for dinner, or $41.95 on their weekday lunch.
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FE14, 845 Market St / (415) 462-3007 / Website
Located within the shopping wonderland of the Westfield Mall, Fire of Brazil Express is the perfect food court stop to properly refuel with before continuing on your expenditure expedition. Live fire-grilled is their true highlight here, delivering hot meals for affordable prices that go way beyond your typical food court experience.
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201 3rd St Suite 100 / (415) 427-0004 / Website
Just adjacent to the SFMOMA is this other masterpiece of a restaurant. Fogo De Chao is lavish, intimate, and marvelously chic, showcasing a grand array of high-quality meats, wines, seafood, and cocktails to indulge in with sumptuous style. Their endless varieties of Caipirinhas like Mango Habanero and Strawberry Hibiscus are unmatched, and you will definitely want to splurge on more than just one as you also try all of their tableside churrasco with Filet Mignon, Crispy Polenta, and more.
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1114 Bryant St / (415) 796-3663 / Website
A gorgeous hidden gem in SoMa near the Design District and lively Folsom Street is this cultural cornerstone for beer, wines, grilled meats and seafood, and desserts, recognizable from their large proud Brazilian flag displayed on their vivid orange exterior. Service is fast, friendly, and the interior is elegant as it is casual and serene. If you're in this neighborhood for a night out or an afternoon, definitely let this taproom take care of you.
Bom apetite!
See also: Must-Try Ube Sweet Treats In San Francisco
Photography by: Courtesy of rzelich/Getty Images