Eat Your Way Through The Summer '16 Olympic Games In New York City
You've probably heard about all the Brazilian cocktails being offered in New York City while the Olympic Games are happening this month; but what about all the food specials? Brazil is home to some amazing cuisine, so here's a roundup of five Brazilian spots to dine at and indulge in both the food and drink of Rio de Janeiro.
Padoca Bakery
Padoca has created a specialty treat in honor of the Rio de Janeiro Summer Olympics: the PDQ Carioca. The PDQ is Padoca's signature version of the traditional pão de queijo (cheese bread) — created by pastry chef Rachel Binder using owner Marina Halpern's family recipe as a foundation — while carioca is a Portuguese word to refer to a Rio de Janeiro native. The ensuing combo is a twist on the classic cheese bread featuring green olives, a common bar snack in the South American city. It's the perfect savory snack for watching the Games. Available through Aug. 23.
Want something a bit lighter? Padoca is also offering an açaí bowl, prepared in the traditional Brazilian way: antioxidant-rich açaí berries, bananas, and house-made granola with rolled oats, pecans, currants, pumpkin seeds, golden raisins, and coconut. Available through Aug. 23.
SUSHISAMBA
According to the restaurant, "SUSHISAMBA's philosophy is born from the energy and spirit of three distinct cultures ― Brazil, Japan and Peru." So, of course, this lively spot is honoring its Brazilian roots (and celebrating the upcoming Games) with Brazilian-inspired cocktails and cuisine. Sip on Brazil's national spirit ― cachaça ― muddled with kiwi and lime in the Kiwi Caipirinha; the Strawberry Sake "Caipirinha" (a Japanese twist on the classic); or for an inventive twist on the caipirinha, order the Kaffirinha Sorbet Sparkler ― a refreshing, frozen treat that features fragrant Kaffir lime sorbet, cachaça, and a sparkling wine floater.
Also offered is a selection of savory Brazilian street food including Pastel de Feijoada with grilled lemon; and Bolinhos de Bacalhau with sea bass, purple Peruvian potatoes, and aji amarillo. For something sweet, enjoy Pasteis de Caipirinha: a flaky tart baked with nata (Brazilian custard) flavored with lime zest, lime juice, and cachaça. These Olympic-themed bites are available during SAMBAHOUR, which runs Sunday through Friday, 4–7 p.m. and 11 p.m.–close, until Aug. 21.
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse has recently introduced its new Sunday brunch featuring Brazilian-inspired breakfast items that go hand in hand with the restaurant's famed fire-roasted meat selections, such as the filet mignon, lamb chops, and signature Brazilian picanha. The new menu items include Pão de Queijo Egg Bake: Fogo's traditional gluten-free cheese bread (pão de queijo) baked with eggs, asparagus, broccoli, and Swiss cheese; Bolo de Fubá: house-made sweet cornmeal cake (also gluten-free) served with whipped caramelized banana crème; and a seasonal Sunday roast: currently featuring bone-in pork roast, sliced to order. And, of course, on offer are plenty of libations ― made-to-order caipirinhas, passion fruit mimosas, and Fogo's own Brazilian-spiced Bloody Mary.
Haven Rooftop
Haven Rooftop, located above the Sanctuary Hotel, will be showing the Olympics on its big-screen TVs for the duration of the Games. It will offer authentic caipirinhas and a coxhina appetizers, Brazilian chicken croquettes, available through Aug. 23.
Esperanto Fonda
Looking to grab some Brazilian fare on the go? East Village's Esperanto has just opened Esperanto Fonda. This Brazilian café features items such as empanadas; bolinhos; or fried potato cod cakes with house-made chipotle mayo; and the Esperanto bowl. You can take out or choose to eat in the 30-seat area. Esperanto Fonda will also feature caipirinhas, Brazilian sangria, and fresh, tropical juices.