If New Yorkers thought they already had everything in the gastronomic field, Berimbau Brazilian Table comes to prove the opposite. Created by Mario de Matos from Rio, this restaurant is not just a place to eat: it is a direct trip to Brazil without the need for a passport.
Inspired by the berimbau, the mythical single-string instrument that sets the rhythm of capoeira, Berimbau invites you to feel the music, the beach and the energy of your country in each dish.
Since first opening in the West Village in 2009, De Matos dreamed of taking Brazilian cuisine beyond the cliché. That dream took a big leap with the opening of its new location in Midtown, a larger, chicer space designed as a cultural hub, where design, art and gastronomy intertwine.
The design of the place is as Brazilian as the menu itself: tropical wood, wicker, sensual curves and terrazzo floors reminiscent of Ipanema. Thread lamps in shades of amber and amethyst create a warm glow, while vibrant murals by David Jose and a 3D installation by Justin Amrhein tell stories of Brazil and its nature. Other must-sees are the pieces by indigenous artist Waxamani Mehinako, who preserves tribal tradition in each canvas.
To complete the experience, New York’s first caipirinha bar awaits with classic and creative flavors, while the private lounge and Brazilian jewelry boutique Barbosa add a touch of exclusivity.
Menu to share (and celebrate)
At the head of the restaurant, the executive chef Victor Vasconcellosoriginally from São Paulo and with extensive experience in high-end Brazilian gastronomy, reinvents traditional dishes with a modern touch.
Here the command word is “share”. Among the must-sees on the menu are the warm Pão de Queijo with ricotta and butter dip; the Dadinho, crispy cubes of tapioca and cheese with sweet and sour sauce; the Coxinha of chicken and golden Catupiry.
Meat lovers can feast on it. Picanha Feast, The star of the house, a prime cut of picanha served directly to the table, accompanied by special rice, tomato salad and delicious crispy fries.
And if it’s classics, you can’t miss trying the Fkissthe national dish that brings everyone together around the table, or the Stewa seafood stew with coconut milk and dendê oil.
And to close with a flourish the Coffee pudding with milk or the Cassava Cake They are not essential.
from the bar of caipirinhasflanked by arches reminiscent of Rio’s iconic Sugar Loaf, bartender Pedro Bezerra deploys the magic of cachaça in mango, guava or passion fruit caipirinhas, while signature cocktails such as the Nosso Fashioned or the Arpoador play with tequila, bourbon and tropical fruits. There are also non-alcoholic options, from mocktails to a refreshing Brazilian Limeade.
Berimbau Brazilian Table offers not only exceptional food, but a cultural and sensory journey that celebrates the best of Brazil in the heart of Midtown Manhattan.
Berimbau Brazilian Table is located at 3 W 36th Street, New York, NY 10018. Reservations at berimbaunyc.com or by calling (212) 763-7121.
The post Brazil in every bite: the Berimbau experience appeared first on Veritas News.
