Is Fogo de Chão Halal in the USA? A Guide for Halal Diners
Can You Eat Halal at Fogo de Chão?
Fogo de Chão is one of the most well-known Brazilian steakhouses, famous for its churrasco-style dining. With locations across the USA, many Muslim diners wonder: Is Fogo de Chão halal?
The short answer is no, Fogo de Chão is not a halal-certified restaurant. However, some locations may accommodate halal meat requests if arranged in advance, and there are halal-friendly side dishes and seafood options available.
Does Fogo de Chão Serve Halal Meat?
1. No Official Halal Certification
Fogo de Chão does not serve halal-certified meat in most of its U.S. locations. Their beef, lamb, and chicken are not sourced from halal-certified suppliers.
2. Some Locations May Offer Halal Meat on Request
Some Fogo de Chão locations might allow halal meat requests if arranged 48 to 72 hours in advance. Always call ahead to confirm.
3. Cross-Contamination Risk
Even if halal meat is available, cross-contamination is a concern as meats are cooked on shared grills alongside non-halal items, including pork.
Halal-Friendly Options at Fogo de Chão
1. Market Table (Salad Bar) and Side Dishes
- Fresh salads with vegetables and dressings
- Grilled vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, and mushrooms
- Rice and black beans (a Brazilian classic)
- Mashed potatoes and polenta fries
- Cheese bread (Pão de Queijo)
2. Seafood Options
Some locations serve grilled salmon, shrimp, and seafood cocktails. Check with staff about preparation methods to avoid non-halal ingredients.
3. Beverages and Desserts
- Brazilian lemonades
- Fresh fruit juices
- Papaya cream dessert
- Chocolate mousse cake
How to Request Halal Meat at Fogo de Chão
- Call Ahead – Contact your local Fogo de Chão at least 48–72 hours in advance.
- Speak to the Manager – Confirm your halal request upon arrival.
- Ask for Separate Preparation – If halal meat is available, request separate cooking surfaces.
- Stick to Seafood and Vegetarian Options – If halal meat isn’t available, focus on plant-based and seafood dishes.
Alternative Halal Steakhouses in the USA
1. Texas de Brazil (Select Locations Offer Halal Meat)
A Brazilian steakhouse similar to Fogo de Chão, with some locations offering halal meat upon request. Always confirm in advance.
2. Al Basha Steakhouse (New Jersey)
A fully halal-certified steakhouse offering premium cuts like ribeye, filet mignon, and tomahawk steaks.
3. Nusr-Et Steakhouse (Miami, NYC, Dallas)
Some locations serve halal-certified steaks—call in advance to verify.
4. Tarboush Steakhouse (California)
A fully halal Brazilian steakhouse offering churrasco-style dining similar to Fogo de Chão.
5. Cook Halal Steak at Home
For a halal steakhouse experience at home, order premium halal-certified meat from NY Halal Meat.
Tips for Halal Diners at Non-Halal Steakhouses
- Call ahead to ask about halal options.
- Choose seafood and vegetarian dishes if halal meat isn’t available.
- Avoid alcohol-based marinades in certain dishes.
- Request separate preparation if halal meat is an option.
- Be cautious of cross-contamination—shared grills may affect halal compliance.
Conclusion: Should Halal Diners Eat at Fogo de Chão?
For strict halal eaters, Fogo de Chão is not a suitable option due to the lack of halal-certified meat and cross-contamination risks. However, if you are comfortable with seafood, vegetarian options, and select side dishes, you can still enjoy a meal there.
If you prefer a 100% halal steakhouse experience, visit alternatives like Al Basha Steakhouse or check if Texas de Brazil offers halal meat at a location near you.
For the best halal meat for home cooking, explore NY Halal Meat for premium cuts delivered to your door.