My review of Picanha Brazilian Steak Restaurant in Las Vegas
NEW RESTAURANT REVIEW: PICANHA BRAZILIAN STEAK RESTAURANT (SOUTH LAS VEGAS)
Brazilian steakhouses are typically three things — delicious, predictable, and pricey. Las Vegas has several Brazilian steakhouses, most notably Pampas Churrascaria, Texas de Brazil, Fogo De Chao, and others (Yoli’s recently closed).
Now, there’s a new kid on the chopping block: Picanha Brazilian Steak Restaurant is delicious and perhaps predictable, but it’s not pricey. The meats and sides are every bit as good as the higher-end Brazilian-style restaurants, but here the themes are fast and easy and affordable.
Picanha offers counter service, which means ordering at the cashier and then awaiting delivery to your table. Lunch specials, which include a small grilled steak, homemade mashed potato, and salad are $10.95.
All platters include three sauces, which make a tender, succulent steak even more appealing. With each sauce, it’s like eating three different entrees. For bigger appetites, $16-18 will get you a significantly larger portion.
Whatever you choose, dining on a fresh steak (or seafood and chicken, which is also available) is a steal.
Marieta and I dined today — she had the $10.95 special and I had the $16.95 two-meat special (with spicey sausage), and we added a drink and side of cheese cornbread. We were out the door in 40 minutes for $35. Not bad for a fresh-cooked lunch for two.
Picanha is located on South Rainbow at Warm Springs. This is just south of Rainbow and the 215 Beltway. This area is a haven for small, mom-and-pop restaurants, and Picanha certainly fits in nicely. The owner-operators are Venezualan — the wife runs the counter and the husband does the cooking. I have the impression they will do anything to satisfy customers and create repeat business.
If I have any complaints, it’s that the portions weren’t large. But for the money, we got exactly what we paid for. But don’t expect the typical Brazilian rodizio with a constant flow of meats — that’s why those places cost $50 for all-you-can-eat. This is more of a casual, fast-food experience. And, it’s not exactly criticism if my only complaint is that I wanted to eat MORE.
(Another way to enjoy a tasty steak is to cook at home. Read this guide to know where to buy those prime steaks.)
I hope Picanha does well. Let’s hope word of mouth travels and locals give this family-owned business the support they deserve.
Very good lunch. Dinner is a little pricier, but (I’m told) the portions are larger.
Picanha is highly recommended.