Cafe Brazil on Venice, Take 2
Tuesday, February 7, 2006 9:49
To celebrate my six months or so of blogging, MS and I thought we’d take it back a bit and have a second go at Cafe Brazil on Venice. Here’s Take 1.
This time, I took pictures of the vibrant bowls of oranges that sat with you on the cozy tables inside or outside on the green terrace.
The same great Guarana 2.50 Brazilian sodas complimented our lunches full of flavor. I got the original, but this time MS ordered the Diet version. So instead of getting what we ordered the first time we came here, we dared to be a little different. MS with the Picante Cat Fish that was marinated with Brazilian spices with the standard fare of white rice, black beans, salsa, fried plantains and salad for 13.95. His dish was absolutely delicious! Tender and moist, with just enough spice to “kick it up a notch!”
I, however, was intrigued by the Traditional Feijoada or “pork stew” that’s only served on Saturday and Sundays only. Cooked overnight and served with black beans, rice farofa, collard greens, and an orange slice - this special menu item is yours for 14.95. I wasn’t too impressed with this dish, but then again, I’m not a huge fan of black beans either.
After doing some research, I learned that it’s a mix of beans and all parts of pork or beef (including ear, tail, snout). Served during lunch, it’s usually known as “O Prato do Dia” or the day’s special. According to general belief, this dish was introduced to Brazil as early as the 16th century by black slaves, and is quite a traditional dish in Brazil. It’s also only served during the lunch hour because it’s a pretty heavy dish. Little did I know that you’re really supposed to eat it with a Caipirinha - a strong sweet Brazilian cocktail that’s like a margarita. And that you’re supposed to NAP after such an extravagant meal.
Lucky for me, I didn’t find any distinguishable body parts in my pork bean stew. Just a couple pieces of meat on bone and pieces of sausage were picked out of the black bean mixture. And lucky for me, I got to trade with MS for some of his well seasoned catfish that we lathered with their house salsa.
Note to self: If ever I get the Feijoada again, take an afternoon siesta!
Cafe Brasil
street: 10831 venice boulevard, los angeles 90034
t: 310.837.8957
open every day 11a-10p / take out available
parking: lot behind restaurant or street
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.