AMS discovered a feast of South American flavours on a visit to Rodizio, at Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park

Walking into Rodizio, we were immediately enveloped by the warm, vibrant atmosphere that hinted at the evening of indulgence to come. The rich red tones on the walls, accented by soft, amber lighting, created an inviting and intimate space. The décor struck a perfect balance between modern and traditional, with a distinct Brazilian flair that made us feel as though we had been transported to the heart of South America.

As we stepped further in, we were greeted with broad smiles from the staff. There was an unmistakable energy in the air, one that promised a dining experience that was both lively and comforting. Our server, Manish, welcomed us with a friendly and attentive demeanour. He showed us to our table with genuine enthusiasm, setting the tone for what would be an unforgettable evening. From our seats, we took in the subtle charm of the restaurant, where everything from the vibrant hues to the contemporary furnishings reflected a blend of authenticity and sophistication.

A Light Yet Flavourful Prelude

We started with an array of appetisers that arrived just at the right moment. The coxinha, a traditional Brazilian croquette, had a perfectly crisp exterior encasing a tender, seasoned chicken filling. The pão de queijo, small cheese bread balls made with cassava flour and cheese, melted in our mouths with their soft, chewy texture. The plantain fritto, sweet and lightly fried, offered a pleasant contrast to the crispy fried cassava, which had a starchy crunch. The highlight of the starters, however, was the seafood and mango salad. The delicate seafood paired beautifully with the sweetness of the mango, while the touch of habanero in the dressing added a refreshing, spicy kick.

A Celebration Of Brazilian Barbecue

The real essence of Rodizio, however, lay in its churrascaria-style service. For the uninitiated, this means an endless parade of skewered meats, served at your table by attentive waiters, until you signal you’ve had enough by turning over a small card. It’s an interactive and indulgent dining experience where the meats keep coming until you say “no more”.

The selection of meats on offer was nothing short of impressive, each expertly grilled over an open flame and presented with flair. Chef Dany, originally from Peru, personally visited our table to explain the dedication behind sourcing only the finest cuts of meat from the US, Argentina and other countries. His passion for quality was evident, and it set the tone for the feast that followed. The picanha, Brazil’s prized cut, was undoubtedly the standout. Its rich marbling and melt-in-the-mouth tenderness left us speechless, while the smoky flavours of the rendered fatty cap were simply divine. Every bite lingered long after the plate was cleared, a true testament to its excellence.

Next came the maminha, a leaner cut from the rump. Its subtle seasoning allowed the meat’s natural flavour to take centre stage, with each slice juicy and satisfying. The flap steak was a revelation – robust, hearty and packed with deep, rich flavour. Though slightly chewier, it offered a rewarding bite for those who love a more textured cut.

The beef rib-eye was another favourite, its fat marbled perfectly throughout, making each bite succulent and full of flavour. The tenderloin, as expected, was buttery soft, delicate on the palate and a great contrast to the richer cuts.

As we savoured these dishes, a saxophonist played cool jazz numbers in the background, subtly enriching the experience. As midweek diners poured into the restaurant, we got the distinct feeling that Rodizio was the go-to venue for authentic Brazilian dining and expertly cooked meats.

Beyond the beef, the variety continued to impress. The lamb leg was beautifully tender, the herbs and spices subtly enhancing the meat’s natural sweetness. The chicken drumstick, with its crispy, golden skin, was a comforting and familiar addition, its interior juicy and full of flavour.

Accompanying the meats were traditional Brazilian sides such as farofa, a savoury cassava flour mixture, feijoada, a hearty black bean stew, and fragrant garlic rice. Each side added its own depth to the meal and, when mixed together, they created a perfect harmony of flavours. These sides not only grounded the meal but added a further authentic touch.

Just when we thought we’d tasted the best of the selection, the roast pineapple with cinnamon made its entrance. Its caramelised edges and sweet juices provided a refreshing interlude, cutting through the richness of the meats and preparing us for the next round.

Throughout the meal, Manish made sure we were enjoying the experience, offering recommendations and keeping our plates full with a smile. His attentiveness and friendly approach made the evening feel personal and engaging.

A Delicate And Indulgent Finale

While the meats were the stars of the evening, the desserts provided a delightful conclusion to the feast. The Brigadeiro cake, rich and decadent with layers of Brazilian-inspired chocolate, was an indulgent treat, perfectly paired with chocolate chip ice cream. The highlight, however, was the lemon crème brûlée. Light, delicate and airy, it delivered a refreshing citrus lift, with a crisp caramelised top that gave way to a silky lemon custard beneath. It was the perfect way to balance the rich flavours of the preceding courses.

For a more traditional ending, the flan de leite offered a smooth and creamy finish, complemented by the tangy brightness of passionfruit sauce. The curau, a caramelised corn custard, provided a uniquely Brazilian twist with its blend of sweet and savoury, leaving us intrigued and satisfied.

Rodizio wasn’t just about the food; it was the atmosphere, the service and the experience that made the evening so memorable. The dedication of the staff, particularly Manish and Chef Dany, transformed what could have been a simple meal into a journey through the flavours and traditions of Brazil. This restaurant is a true celebration of food, hospitality and warmth. ✤

GO: CALL 5038 2628 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.