Monday Munch: Fogo de Chao

Saturday is usually try a new restaurant day, so off we went in search of a new place to eat. We thought about being festive and eating at a German restaurant in honor of Oktoberfest. But, lines were too long at Hofbrauhaus in Rosemont, so we went across the street to Fogo de Chao. I had never heard of this amazing smorgasbord of salads and meats and everything delicious. But, my big-eater husband of course had eaten at the chain while living in Maryland. He was practically drooling when he set eyes on the restaurant, which just recently opened in Rosemont. The place is not for the light eater. Meals are $46 for adults and $23 for kids. We quickly decided we would be dining without the kids if we returned to Fogo. Despite the hefty price tag, the meal is truly an experience. I'm going to use the word "salad bar" but please don't picture wilted lettuce and cottage cheese. This is a gourmet bar with meats, cheeses, vegetables and salad fixings. Smoked salmon, prosciutto and fresh mozzarella were my favorite choices. The highlight of the meal is of course the fresh meat, which is brought to your table by dozens of waiters, wielding skewers and knives ready to cut off your ideal slice of beef, lamb, chicken, steak, whatever looks best. The chicken osso buco and lamb were my favorites. Along with the never-ending array of food were hot sides of cheesy mashed potatoes, hand cut French fries and fried bananas, as well as rolls. We definitely didn't leave hungry!