If dining al fresco is your idea of romance or fun, this might be the place for you. From the outside looking in you can't see much of anything. Once you park your car (free parking shared by Cafe Brasil and Bamboo though there is supposed to be some kind of official allocation of spaces for each restaurant) and make your way into this indoor-outdoor haven, you really feel as though you're in Brasil... rather than twenty feet away from busy Venice boulevard. \r
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The environment is very outdoors-made-indoors with a casual pergola arrangement, umbrellas, and strategically arranged potted plants. You stand in line and order from a counter, then wait on wood benches for your dinner to be cooked. Service is plastic baskets, stainless steel flatware, and wax paper, but rather than feeling cheap, just seems to enhance the whole vibe of the place. \r
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The food is excellent. Best value is the pitcher of juice. I also recommend the spicy fish sandwiche and fried plantains. The usual rice and bean sides are available, as well as imported soda pop. Although the service (cooking time) is fast, it's definitiely not your typical fast food either in flavor or price. Expect to pay $9-15 per person for a great meal and drink.
Pros: Superior food, great ambiance, fast kitchen service
Cons: Can get crowded
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