Tucson will soon have its first Brazilian steakhouse when Churrasco de Brasil opens in mid-October at the Tucson Mall.
The 8,700-square-foot space previously housed Twigs Bistro and Martini Bar and Brio Tuscan Grille. This is the space’s first tenant since Twigs closed in May 2018.
The restaurant is expected to open in mid-October, said Adão Giovanaz, partner at Churrasco de Brasil.
For 30 years, Giovanaz and partner Elmir Bernardon worked in nearly every position at Brazilian steakhouse Fogo de Chão. Customers would drive up to the Phoenix location and asked for a location in Tucson, Giovanaz said. This will be the first restaurant opened from the duo on their own.
Churrasco de Brasil will feature over 12 cuts of meat; chefs will walk around with different cuts to slice at the table. A variety of cuts from beef, lamb, pork, and chicken will be served regularly.
Additionally, a market table will feature 30 to 35 salads, cured meats, and cheeses. A full bar will include traditional Brazilian cocktails, such as caipirinha.
Hiring will begin mid-September. The team is looking to fill 50 to 60 positions.
Keep watch on Tucson Foodie for more extended Churrasco de Brasil features as the restaurant gets closer to opening.
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Article written by:

Jackie Tran
More about JackieJackie Tran is a Tucson-based food writer, photographer, culinary educator, and owner-chef of the now-closed food truck Tran’s Fats. Although he is best known locally for his work for Tucson Foodie, his work has also appeared in publications such as Bon Appétit, National Geographic, and the New York Times.
An adventurous foodie, he enjoys culinary experiences ranging from seasonal omakase to sloppily devouring green chili patty melts in his car afterhours. His favorite foods include aguachile, garlic noodles, and leftover fried chicken illuminated by the fridge light. His favorite drinks include morning micheladas, fireside imperial stouts, candle-lit negroni, and grassy mezcales.
Outside of food, he also loves playing musical instruments, karaoke, Tetris, Super Smash Bros. Melee, and petting Addie’s dog Spaghetti.
If you’d like to stalk him, visit his Instagram @jackie_tran_ or jackietran.com.















