Learn where in the Bay Area you can cheer on Team USA.
By Catherina Silva and Alexander Quebec
Brazil will be on everyone’s mind today as the opening ceremonies for the 2016 Summer Olympics will be taking place in Rio. For the next two weeks the world will be tuned in to watch their country win the gold. Of course with Olympic fever, flights and hotels are booked, and chances are, you won’t be able to go to Brazil to cheer Team USA. However, what if you could experience Brazil with a few restaurants that aren’t a 13 hour flight away? Catherina and I got you covered with our list of popular Brazilian restaurants in the Bay Area. Get into the spirit of the Olympics at these hot spots!
But what if I’m going to Brazil?
However, if you’re lucky enough to be going to Brazil amid the craziness going on right now, check out these helpful tips to get you through Brazilian dining like a pro.
Brazilian Etiquette 101
- When making a toast, Brazilians say, “Saude!”, which means, “To your health!”
- Common placement for utensils is much like the American way: Knife at your right, fork at your left, work from the outside in, etc.
- However, at the end of the meal the knife and fork should lay parallel to each other horizontally across the center of the plate, and always make sure they do not cross each other.
- Don’t put your hands on your lap and don’t put your elbows on the table! Leave your wrists placed on the table at all times so they’re visible.
- Raising your hands or calling for your server is considered impolite. Simply make eye contact with them to get their attention when you’re dining at a restaurant in Brazil.
- If you invite someone to dinner in Brazil you should pay, but your guest should always offer to pay to show you their gratitude.
- Never, ever eat on the go. Brazilians believe that mealtime is sacred, and there is no use in rushing through a meal.
Brazilian Food Traditions
- It is common for extra food to be prepared just in case of unexpected visitors.
- Lunch is the most important meal in Brazilian culture, and it is usually the biggest meal of the day.
- Dinner is served later than in the U.S., so it is usually the lightest meal of the day.
- “Comida por quilo”, is the American equivalent to an inexpensive, self-service buffet where home-style food is charged by weight or is all-you-can-eat at a fixed price.
- Also, it is easy to find street food stands, cafés, and snack/juice bars open late into the night.
Well folks, we hoped you learned some new things today. Let us know if we missed anything or if there are other Brazilian restaurants in the comments below and USA! USA! USA!
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