Katy residents don’t have much longer to wait for caipirinhas and all-you-can-eat picanha. Chama Gaúcha Brazilian Steakhouse announced it will open its second Houston-area location in the suburb by mid-September.
Located at 24205 Bella Katy Drive, Chama Gaúcha has claimed the former Doneraki Mexican Grill/Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que space for its new location. Similar to other rodizio concepts, Chama Gaúcha offers a range of grilled beef, lamb, pork, chickens, and Brazilian sausages that are served tableside by the restaurant’s staff. The meats come with caramelized bananas, garlic mashed potatoes, fried polenta, and pão de queijo, the celebrated Brazilian cheese rolls.
Diners also have access to a salad bar with more than 30 selections, including vegetables, cheeses, and charcuterie. Those who want a lighter meal may opt for a salad bar-only option for a reduced price.
The interior will feature five private dining rooms with capacities ranging from 20 to 150 people. They’re available for celebrations, business dinners, and other happenings.
João Carlos Ongaratto founded Chama Gaúcha in San Antonio in 2008 after he spent 20 years working for pioneering churrascaria concept Fogo de Chao. The Houston location (5865 Westheimer) opened in 2011. It also has locations in Chicago and the Dallas suburb of Grapevine. Chron was first to report the restaurant’s plans to open in Katy.
“We’ve welcomed many guests from Katy at our Westheimer location for so long that opening here has always been part of our vision,” general manager Guilherme Da Silva said in a statement. “We’re excited to finally bring the Chama Gaúcha experience closer to home for those loyal guests while introducing our authentic Brazilian hospitality to those who live and work in the area.”