Cafe Brasil on Venice
Friday, August 12, 2005 12:40Cultures and languages of the world come together here in the city, and to me, this fusion is the very essence of what it means to be an Angeleno.
As you drive along Venice Boulevard, you’ll find a number of different eateries - Thai, Cuban, Mexican, Japanese, Italian cuisines to name just a few. And on the corner of Venice and Westwood Boulevards, there is a small Brazilian restaurant you may miss if you drive too quickly. With a number of potted greeneries and tables with yellow and green umbrellas, you may not even see their green canopy sign that reads “Cafe Brazil.”
My epicurean partner in crime recommended this family-owned/run restaurant, and it was the perfect spot to enjoy dinner on a summer evening out in the city. The restaurant had an airy and comfortable atmosphere with a patio lined with wooden tables and cushioned chairs.
As we stood in line at the deli/register counter to place our order, I watched other diners pick up their colorful plates of food. I looked at the menu and asked the man behind the counter what he would recommend to someone who has never had Brazilian food before. He was very patient with me as he shared the different flavors of each dish, and made several suggestions. [I later discovered that he was one of the owners.]
MS ordered the steak dish on the specials menu; while I chose the grilled chicken dish marinated in Brazilian spices. Dishes came with a homemade salsa with fresh tomatoes, cilantro, parsley, and onions; white rice; black beans; two fried plaintains; and either a side of salad or soup. We also had a couple Guarana Classic “Brazilian Sodas” which reminded me of ginger ale and cream soda.
Delicious authentic cuisine, friendly and prompt service, casual and cozy atmosphere, reasonable prices, and great company all add up to what I love about living in the city. This is something I missed when I lived out in the Midwest. This is LA. This is home.
Cafe Brasil
Street: 10831 Venice Boulevard (just West of Overland)
T: 310.837.8957
By Kristy (see more of her posts). A native of the city, kristy loves to discover new sites, new eateries, new things to do in her online journal of finding the best of la.
sarah says:
August 15th, 2005 at 3:45 pm
YUM!
Manic Organic says:
August 15th, 2005 at 4:54 pm
I have been there a few times, never had a bad experience, unless you count the wait. I ususally go when everyone else decides to go to! The salmon plate is amazing, and the grilled vegetables. They are also opening up a new location on Washington Blvd. This is VERY good news!
chef macdaddy says:
August 20th, 2005 at 10:02 pm
cafe brazil is a great find! the place rocks, authentic style.
Katrina says:
February 12th, 2007 at 1:06 pm
The food is delicious and the atmosphere is ultra-cozy. The prices are very reasonable considering the high quality of the food and the comfortable ambiance. This is good for a romantic date or a small gathering of friends. (Seating is a little cramped.)
Tommy Lovebottom says:
February 12th, 2007 at 4:03 pm
I lived across the street from Cafe Brazil. I ate thee quite often. Good/great BIG food for good prices.I never had a bad experience thee. Really nice lunch specials.