Gaga for Gaúcho's

Less than half a block away from Casa579 lies one of Santa Teresa's culinary treasures. Cantina do Gaúcho (or simply "Gaúcho's") offers massive meals for ridiculously low prices as well as spectacular views of nearby Prazeres favela as well as greater Rio from its back windows.

Gaúcho's owner, Arnoldo, is an industruous, bear-like man from Rio Grande do Sul (the southern Brazilian influence comes out in some of the dishes, in fact). He began to make food for the neighborhood about six years ago, and through word of mouth alone, his restaurant has expanded to become quite successful.

Cantina do Gaúcho, as seen from the street

The first incarnation of Arnoldo's establishment was open only on Saturdays and Sundays in his garage; there was a car sitting among the tables and patrons used to have to bang on the garage door to be let in. The Gaúcho's of 2004 served only pratos feitos and operated (as you might have guessed) without a license. As more people came to eat, however (including a slew of policemen, interestingly enough), Arnoldo made some changes to develop the place into a more official establishment. He developed a full menu, opened from Monday-Saturday, and, in 2008, moved the Cantina from the garage to his remodeled home.

Old school Gaúcho's: in the garage.

And after the remodel! Arnoldo with his wife.

When asked what his plans for the future are, Arnoldo mentioned that he would like to expand and update the cantina's menu. The English translations may have been done too quickly, he admits (though to be quite honest, the hilarity of some mistranslated menu items only adds to the restaurant's charm -- check out Against-the-Horse Filet, the pork served with two cars, or the "meat with rice crazy, crazy rice"), but in truth it's a well-rounded menu with unbeatable prices (the scan below omits the entire page of pizzas available). Gaúcho's also serves desserts -- including Brazilian quindim and some of the best chocolate mousse you will ever eat.

Arnoldo's favorite? Picanha a Gaúcha.

All this for R$7!

The spectacular view by day...

and by night.

If you're anywhere near Santa Teresa, a stop to Gaúcho's is absolutely essential. Even if you're not, hop on a kombi and check out this restaurant that used to be in a garage and like a true Brazilian Cinderella story blossomed into a fantastic eatery -- you will not regret it!