Rodizio Gril will open its doors in downtown Pensacola on Friday, Feb. 10. It’s located one block from the Civic Center on Gregory Street,at the site of the old Zea’s.
Rodizio Grill is America’s first authentic Brazilian Steakhouse, founded in Denver, Colorado, in 1995 by Ivan Utrera, a native Brazilian who migrated to the United States in the 1980s. Rodizio Grill’s concept comes from churrascarias (or steakhouses) found throughout Brazil. In these churrascarias, Brazilian gauchos bring mouth-watering skewers of meat carved tableside for ultimate freshness and flavor.
“Rodizio Grill was the first of its kind in the United States,” said Ivan Utrera. “It is a concept where the guest has complete control, enabling them to take charge of their own dining experience.”
Rodizio Grill’s menu consists of three-foot skewers of meat carved tableside by Brazilian gauchos, an abundant selection of gourmet Brazilian salads, homemade desserts and specialty beverages including Rodizio Limeade and Brazil’s famous Guarana soft drink. Utrera brought family recipes to create this award-winning menu that has won awards year after year.
“In recent years we’ve seen strong interest and growth in this fun and festive concept. We believe the community of Pensacola will love and embrace Rodizio Grill and its unique Brazilian style,” said David Knighton, Rodizio Grill’s Director of Development.
The company’s mission statement is to be ambassadors of Brazil, and the company encourages its employees to learn about the culture and the country they are representing. Rodizio Grill has become a beloved destination restaurant in its current markets, and the fun and energetic atmosphere is sure to be a hit in the community.
“We want our guests to have the best time possible, and to experience a little part of Brazil in their own backyard,” said Utrera. “When you walk into Rodizio Grill, you are not just walking into an establishment, but into a home. As soon as you enter one of our restaurants, you become part of our family.”
Rodizio Grill Pensacola will be locally owned and operated by Mike Domning and Randy Harrelson, owners and operators of the Melting Pot locations in Pensacola and Destin. Together they have over 20 years of restaurant management experience.
“We are extremely excited to be a part of the Rodizio Grill family,” said Mike Domning. “This project has been a long time coming. We have been looking for a partnership that was 100 percent what we needed, and we are just glad that Rodizio Grill was able to provide that for us. We cannot wait to bring Pensacola its first Brazilian Steakhouse!”
About Rodizio Grill:
Rodizio Grill is the first authentic Brazilian style steakhouse in the U.S. It was established in 1995. Its all-inclusive menu offers over 30 unlimited gourmet salads and appetizers, and over a dozen rotisserie grilled meats, served tableside by Brazilian gauchos. More information can be found by calling 801-567-0500 or visiting www.rodiziogrill.com