Dallas based restaurant, Chili's® Grill & Bar, recently introduced its bold Southwestern flavors into Brazil when the brand opened its first restaurant in one of South America's fastest growing countries.

The newest emerging world market to welcome Chili's, in turn introduced the brand's culinary team to Picahna, a prime cut of top sirloin popular in the churrascarias of Southern Brazil, and Caipirinhas, the country's national cocktail made with a blend of fresh limes, sugar and cachaca – a Brazilian spirit made from sugarcane.

According to Chili's, guests who visit the new restaurant in Sao Paulo will find both local favorites incorporated in a variety of new dishes and flavors on the menu; additions which are exclusive to Brazil only.

In comparison to Chili's U.S. menu, the Brazil menu will feature Chili's signature favorites as well as eight new items – Picahna Burger, Picahna Fajitas complete with a step-by-step guide showing guests how to build a fajita and Picahna steak, as well as five different flavors of refreshing Caipirinhas.

Speaking over the acquisition, Carin Stutz, president of global business development for Brinker International said, "Understanding cultures and consumer needs in each new market is an important factor when Chili’s introduces its restaurant brands to new countries.”

“Chili’s chefs captured the essence of Brazil's unique flavors to craft relevant, fresh spins on the restaurant’s signature items with a touch of familiar fare for its guests in Sao Paulo," said Stutz.

The popular urban center, Moema, was an attractive location to open Chili's first restaurant in Brazil because it is a proven trade area, densely populated with residential towers with both small and large businesses. Moema draws people from many places to its active day and night life, seven days a week as well.  

The Moema Chili's also features a new contemporary design with bold colors and a mix of elements that creates warm and inviting spaces. New, large flat screen televisions also adorn the walls of the dining room, creating the perfect environment for enjoying great food and drinks with friends and family.

In addition to the bar and main dining area on the ground floor, the restaurant offers a variety of seating options for both small and large parties, including a covered terrace and a roof-top patio, open to the rich sounds and textures of the thriving Moema urban center.  

17th October 2011