Saturday, July 5, 2008

Sampaio's Brazilian Cuisine

We celebrated Sumita's and Gautam's 3rd Anniversary in this beautiful Brazilian diner. The ambiance certainly reflects distinct Brazilian culture and music. There was a crisp chill in the air and we couldn't miss the chance to sit outside in the tropical patio.

It was my first Brazilian food tasting and I had no idea of what to expect. Though, I can trust on Sumita's restaurant recommendations blindly. She definitely has a taste for good food :)

We started the evening with Brazilian Mojitos. It is definitely one of the best drinks in their menu.

The evening continued with heated discussions followed by Aperitivos and Pratos Principais.

For appetizers we went for "Bolinhos de Arroz" which are Parmesan rice puffs served with rosemary-tomato cream sauce and "Mandioca Griddles" which are herbed-seasoned yuca cakes baked with spicy tomato sauce and mozzarella.

Bohinhos were the groups favorite. The crispy rice puffs and the sauce had a distinct taste. If I had to describe Mandioca then it would be like pizza but with the potato dough. Very different indeed!!!

For principais Abhishek placed an order for Mexico de Vegetais. These were rice sauteed with crimini mushrooms, corns, bell pepper, tomatoes, carrots, peas, and cilantro. It spicy and the brazilian herbs make it different from "Indian Pulao". I hope my description is right!!!

I went for Macarrao com Verduras. These are linguini pasta sauteed with seasoned vegetables with rosemary cream sauce. I totally loved these pastas. Enough spicy for an Indian tongue!!!

and Gautam ordered Pamonha de Vegetal. These are mashed yuca (potatoes) with mixed vegetables and wrapped in banana leaf topped with curry sauce. These are served with mixed green, tomatoes, and rice. I guess this too was my favorite!!

Overall the ambiance, the food, and the company was great! Again a must must go place:)