South Tampa has a series of steakhouses that would make many cities blush, but few have the depth of flavors, variety, and fantastic service as the new Terra Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse Tampa on South Dale Mabry Boulevard. It's an experience as much as a meal, and the traditional gaucho cuisine of South America shines through with authenticity.
The Brazilian churrascaria features 14 different succulent meats carved for you tableside, an array of seafood as well, plus a salad, cheese, and charcuterie bar that will wow the most balanced of palates. You are served constantly by a doting wait staff until you concede to the dining Gods of fullness, and it's those addictive skewers of beef, lamb, pork, chicken, and more which keep you satiated and craving even more servers to your table.
"It's an all-you-can-experience menu," says owner and operator Rodolfo Melo who moved to the United States from Brazil 16 years ago. "Brazilians enjoy food and life so much, and we bring both together here for everyone.
"The meats are perfectly seasoned, and walked out to you while still freshly heated. Churrascaria-style cooking also allows for you to receive any temperature between rare and medium just by the movement of your server's knife. Selections range from filet mignon to Frenched lamb chops still on the rack, with some lighter bites such as a perfectly prepared shrimp to a baked pineapple that provides the perfect balance to the seasoned meats. For those accustomed to the regular steakhouse, Terra Gaucha provides all the delicious beef you'd expect in all the quantities you'd wish, but also allows for different options to complete the meal.
What stands out about Terra Gaucha isn't just the quality of cuisine, but also the service. The wait staff is a team, all working together to ensure each of your needs is met immediately. Water glasses are instantly filled, chairs are pulled out for ladies returning from the salad bar, and the little touches of fine dining complement the experience.
The salad bar features incredibly fresh fruits and vegetables, but also trays of Parmesan Reggiano and fresh mozzarella and mortadella. As a larger-than-normal amuse bouche, it fits perfectly to prepare you for the feast to come.
Though the decor fits with the South Tampa neighborhood where it's located, Terra Gaucha is authentically Brazilian as well. The Caipirinha is the national drink of the nation, and the rum-based concoction is flawlessly-executed by those that vouch for how it should taste.
This also applies to the soft drinks, including the beloved Guaraná Antartica, which is a national treasure on par with Coca-Cola in the USA. Having this available is as Brazil as can be, and it's even better when paired with an orange.
If you're looking for a different kind of steakhouse that doesn't slow down on the food or service, Terra Gaucha is a fantastic choice in South Tampa. The all-you-can-eat pricing results in a check often less than at comparable places with less variety and choices in terms of entrees and side items, but maintains the highest levels of service and quality.
Terra Gaucha should be a huge hit in the neighborhood, and reservations and more information are available on their website.
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