After bringing the art of Brazilian barbecue to Lafayette through catering and pop-ups for over a decade, Gustavo Rosenstengel is preparing to open Santa Picanha, a permanent home for the authentic churrasco experience he grew up with.
Brazilian steakhouses in the United States are known for their formal, white-tablecloth service and “all-you-can-eat” pricing. Rosenstengel is taking a different, more accessible approach.
Guests at Santa Picanha can order a variety of meats by weight, including picanha (top sirloin cap), skirt steak, and traditional Brazilian sausages, all prepared using the traditional charcoal-grilled churrasco method. Side dishes include rice, beans, collard greens, potato salad, garlic bread, and farofa (toasted cassava flour). The focus is on creating an everyday gathering spot for lunch and dinner, rather than just a place for special occasions.
The opening of Santa Picanha comes at a time of significant growth for downtown Lafayette. Rosenstengel is excited to be part of the area’s revitalization, citing the tight-knit community and upcoming developments like the new 83-room hotel just a block away as major draws.
“I’ve been dreaming about having my own restaurant for a long time,” Rosenstengel told What Now New Orleans. “I’ve matured as a person and a professional in the hospitality industry for 23 years, and it’s finally a dream coming true.”
After successfully passing key inspections, including the fire marshal’s review of the new charcoal grill and fire suppression system at 406 Garfield St. in Lafayette, Santa Picanha is in the final stages of preparation. The grand opening is currently scheduled for January 3rd.
