1. Amazonia Churrascaria

Amazonia, a Brazilian steakhouse (aka a churrascaria) is probably my favorite restaurant…EVER – I had easily the best dining experience I’ve had in 10 years. Of course, the most important part of any restaurant is the food. The 40 item salad bar (including some interesting soups, beef stroganoff, and a many other things I was unaccustomed to seeing in a salad bar) and the homemade (?) bread were fantastic, but the real treat was when the cooks paraded to our table with skewers upon skewers of different cuts and flavors of steak, ribs, chicken and pork. As I read elsewhere: Amazonia is a carnivore’s dream. The coupons you may find for free desserts here will be of no use to you – though I would imagine the desserts are wonderful, I question whether anyone has ever had room to try one. The staff were amazing – friendly, helpful, almost doting at times. Food appeared and empty dishes disappeared almost without our noticing, our drinks were always fresh and full, and these people seemed genuinely excited to be doing what they were doing. They are experts at it. I don’t want to let the cat out of the bag, but PLEASE, if you have anyone with a birthday at your table, do tell them. You will be stunned by what incredible performers these people are – from the cooks to the owner. WONDERFUL!!