The time is now, say the owners of one of the North East’s most successful hospitality brands as they prepare to bring a vibrant fusion of traditional Brazilian flavours, culture, and hospitality into the heart of Sunderland.
Observers will have noticed that the food scene in Sunderland is experiencing a vibrant transformation, marked by a surge of innovative restaurants, and new developments, with Sunderland quickly becoming one of the most exciting dining destinations in the region.
Co-owners Rodrigo Grassi Duarte and Howard Eggleston were on site last week as works started on the highly anticipated opening of Rio Brazilian Steakhouse, following a half a million-pound investment into the former Halo site on Low Row, just a stone throw from Sunderland Empire theatre and The Fire Station.
Howard Eggleston said:
“The time is most definitely now in Sunderland, as we’ve awaited the green light to start the works, we’ve had all eyes on Sunderland and it’s developing food scene.
The city is experiencing a vibrant transformation, marked by a surge in culinary delights and developments from The Sheepfolds to Mackie’s Corner and a host of independents across the city – it really has been great to see the evolution in recent months.”
The team are set to make a splash in Sunderland with their tropical Rio de Janeiro-inspired features, spanning 10,000sqft and specially trained Gaucho Chefs on hand to serve their renowned and exquisite meat cuts that are continuously carved at the table in a traditional Rodizio style.
With all eyes on a September 2025 opening guests are promised a culinary journey into the Tijuca Urban Forest that surrounds Rio de Janeiro, with planted walls and flowered ceilings towering high above a traditional Brazilian Churrasco experience.
The Sunderland site marks their eighth RIO Brazilian Steakhouse for the hospitality firm which also owns the Tomahawk brand which has 11 sites, including the popular Boat Club in Durham.
Rodrigo Grassi Duarte added:
“With an ever-expanding appetite for bold flavours and fresh ideas in Sunderland, we can’t wait to bring the remarkable RIO Brazilian Steakhouse experience to the city. There’s a real energy here — and a real appreciation for food that tells a story.”
RIO Brazilian Steakhouse is currently recruiting for the Sunderland site, including front of house, floor supervisors, bar managers and more. Anyone interested in applying is asked to email a CV to [email protected]
Howard added:
“The news of our opening has gone down amazingly well; we’ve got an incredible following on social media and the people of Sunderland have really got right behind it.
We are looking forward to fully immersing ourselves within the city and are already excited to be working on a host of collaborations with partners to make opening night extra special for guests.”