365 Places to Eat

Cafe Brasil is open and airy, and extremely clean. Normally, I wouldn’t mention cleanliness, but this place was spotless. The restrooms were nicely decorated and also insanely clean. That’s a good sign to start. I also liked the tables and chairs. Colorful wood and nice big pillows were scattered about. The menu is presented on a wide chalk board above the cash register.

The service is incredibly friendly and helpful. We ask for a few recommendations and get definitive answers. That also, is a good thing. I truly appreciate it when someone is willing to suggest one dish over another, “all of our dishes are good” does nothing for me.

We tried a few dishes. The Tropical Shrimp Plate was piled with plump crustaceans, bathed in a lovely Brazilian spiced sauce, along with fried plantains, rice and black beans. The rice was velvety, most likely laced with butter or some other magic to make it melt in our mouths.

We also tried the chicken. It is a light grilled breast, also topped with secret Brazilian herbs and spices. My wife and I ended up splitting the chicken and shrimp. Surf and Fowl.

Our dining companions both opted for the fish. It must have been good, because it disappeared before I got a bite.

Now, here is where I learned what “spicy” means in Brazil. When we made our order, I asked about the black bean soup. “It’s Spicy” I was told. “It’s Spicy” I said as I coughed through the first bite. The spice was one of those punch-you-in-the-mouth-but-disappear-quickly types. Next thing I knew, I’m addicted, scarfing down the bowl, alternating spice and delight.

After the meal I was craving some coffee. Where better to get coffee than from a Brazilian? I order the coffee and ask if it’s just Brazilian beans, or if there is something more to it. “It’s Brazilian beans, but it’s strong. Like espresso.”

It was like espresso, but instead of a couple ounces of brew, it was a full cup. A full delicious cup. Yes, that is a rock candy stick in the picture. I put a little cream in it, and tossed in a few marshmallows. Yep, they have marshmallows and I can’t resist marshmallows. I really enjoyed the coffee, but having it after dinner may have been a mistake. I was flying high for the rest of the night and long after I should have been asleep.

Cafe Brasil is a great spot. Dishes run from $11-$16 each and the portion sizes are large, but not overwhelming. It’s a great place to meet friends for a little taste of South America.

Cafe Brasil
11736 West Washington Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90066
ph: 310.391.1216
fax: 310.636.1980