This January, Rodizio Grill - 8017 Plaza Del Lago Drive, Ste 101, Estero, is launching Rodizio OnFire, where guests can enjoy spicy re-imaginings of signature items like Top Sirloin with Serrano, Cayenne-Cinnamon Pineapple, and Peppercorn Steak. The Rodizio OnFire featured menu is in addition to the regular dinner menu, at no additional charge. The special will be happening nightly, Jan. 1 through Feb. 10.

Rodizio Grill has been serving the Estero, Fort Myers, and North Naples communities since spring 2016. Established in 1995, Rodizio Grill The Brazilian Steakhouse was founded by Ivan Utrera who brought this popular Brazilian concept, along with cherished family recipes, from his home country of Brazil.

“Having grown up in Brazil, I have so many fond memories of spending time with friends and family, celebrating milestones, or simply just enjoying each other’s company, taking place at our neighborhood churrascaria,” said Utrera. “Rodizio Grill is an embodiment of these memories and I am thrilled to bring this concept to the greater Naples community.”

Rodizio Grill’s unique concept features rotisserie grilled meat, expertly seasoned and carved tableside by Rodizio Gauchos. Additionally, endless homemade Brazilian sides are served right from the oven and guests can enjoy the award-winning gourmet salad bar, which includes authentic, homemade salads, fresh fruits, vegetables, and hot side dishes. An array of homemade desserts, signature cocktails, and an extensive wine list compliment this exceptional dining experience. 

While still having the safety of the community and employees at top of mind, the upcoming special hopes to bring some sense of normalcy back to the Estero area. COVID-19 has had a tremendous impact on all restaurants, including Rodizio Grill, said Ashlee Hille, national marketing director at Rodizio.

"In March, the restaurant closed for nearly eight weeks due to Covid mandates and was forced to furlough most staff," Hille said. "During that time, owners invested personal funds to enhance the outdoor patio dining with umbrellas, air conditioning, and furniture so upon reopening, the restaurant could safely serve more guests safely outside. After reopening, we have seen great support from the community, and we are thrilled to have welcomed back our regular guests."

This year has been a tough year for many families, yet many have seen the importance of spending quality time with family and friends. Celebrating life’s milestones is important in Brazilian culture; that’s why Rodizio gives its Club Rodizio email subscribers a $1 birthday meal. To that end, Rodizio sent out a belated birthday coupon to all members’ birthdays that were missed during the closure. Finally, Hille reported that Rodizio is thrilled to have been able to re-hire all furloughed employees and currently employs 55.