As the 2016 Summer Olympic Games get underway, all eyes are on one of the most spectacular cities in the world—Rio de Janiero. The people of Brazil embrace their beloved sports, especially futbol, and they’re just as passionate about their cuisine. Now diners in Media can sample what makes traditional Brazilian dishes so special.
Brazuca Brazilian Restaurant and Catering recently opened its doors at 1032 N. Providence Rd. at the former DiFabio’s Catering location. The name “Brazuca” is a nickname describing national pride in the “Brazilian way of life.”
Brazuca’s menu features an abundance of authentic Brazilian food, created with high-quality meats, fish, fresh vegetables and fruit.
Brazuca, a BYOB eatery, welcomes diners to bring rum, beer, wine, whatever you choose. I had the opportunity to sip a Caipirinha, Brazil’s national cocktail made with cachaça, or sugarcane hard liquor, plus muddled sugar and freshly squeezed lime.
If you’re a carnivore, try the Churrasco, skewered cuts of meat slow-cooked over an open flame. Also delicious are the Medalhao de Frango, chicken breast wrapped in bacon and Linguica, a tasty Brazilian sausage. Rice and beans are a staple in Brazil, and Brazuca’s version is delicious. The Virado a Paulista is a Brazilian-style lunch that originated in the region of Sao Paulo, the hometown of owner and chef Thebora Parsons. She’s been in the United States now for almost three decades.
“I’ve been in the restaurant industry for many years. I’ve loved to cook since I was 8 years old and would prepare dinner for the family,” she said. “I always wanted to work in the culinary business, and bring the slow, home-cooked flavor to customers.”
It’s apparent that Parsons and the Brazuca team truly care about authentic food preparation, cleanliness and a casual, friendly atmosphere.
“This restaurant has been my dream for many years now and I’m glad I can share my culture with others,” said Parsons. “We bring to our customers all the tasty and healthy food gathered from generations.”
Parsons explained how places just like Brazuca are on every block in Brazil, and the locals rely on the speedy food for lunch, delicious dinners and just hanging out late into the evening.
I’ve been to “traditional” Brazilian food-fest places where the rotisserie meats just kept coming until you say “Enough!” These spots tend toward the costly side, so I wondered how this new Brazilian place stacked up. It’s actually quite simple: Fill your plate with delicacies and roasted meats, and they gladly keep it coming until you say “Enough!” Then, they weigh your plate and pricing is by the pound. It’s $12 for lunch and $15 for dinner. You’d better hope your stomach is as big as your eyes!
It’s a similar deal for takeout. Fill a to-go container with whatever your heart (and taste buds) desire and pay for what you take. Brazilian brilliance the way I see it.
Be warned: Parsons won’t let you skip dessert, so be sure to save room! The Brigadeiro is a common Brazilian delicacy created in 1940. It’s a decadent candy prepared with condensed milk, butter and chocolate and rolled over chocolate sprinkles. The passionfruit mousse, or Mousse de Maracuja, is a creamy, tropical ending to the meal.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite for lunch or a laid back meal, you’ll find the prices are very reasonable and the staff serve with a smile. And if you’re planning a party, Brazuca has an extensive catering menu available.
Find Brazuca Brazilian Restaurant and Catering at 1032 N. Providence Rd., Media; phone: (484) 444-2788.
- Meat chef Nelson & Brigadeiro photo: Brazuca
- Remaining photos: Lauren Avellino Turton
