Chama Gaúcha has a second location coming to the Greater Houston region. According to a recently filed permit, Chama Gaúcha is expected to open in Katy. The permit details that the new Brazilian steakhouse is currently undergoing interior and exterior cosmetic renovations to a 1,3438 square-foot exisiting one story restaurant at 24205 KATY FWY.
That one-story restaurant was Doneraki Fuego y Mar Mexican Grill, which closed after 23 years of service, along with another one of the brand’s locations.
Construction on the new Chama Gaúcha is slated to start next week and wrap up at the end of August this year. If all goes well with the estimated $200,000 construction project and permitting, Chama Gaúcha should be open by this fall.
Renowned for tableside carved USDA Prime meats, traditional Brazilian side dishes, and a gourmet 30-item salad bar, Chama Gaúcha is an authentic Brazilian steakhouse (churrascaria) with locations in San Antonio, Chicago, Dallas, and the Uptown District in Houston.
Fernando Santibanez is the General Manager of the Houston locations. What Now Houston reached out to Santibanez to find out more details about the upcoming opening, but did not hear back by the time of this publication.
Chama Gaúcha was founded by João Carlos Ongaratto in San Antonio in 2018. Bringing years of experience from working with Fogo De Chao, Ongaratto’s new venture followed along a similar all-you-can-eat churrascaria experience. What began as a single location in the Stone Oak area of San Antonio has since grown into a premier chain with locations across Texas and Illinois.
Chama Gaúcha now has a management LLC for the Katy location, which is managed by Managing Member Giocondo Angeli. What Now Houston reached out, but did not hear back from Angeli by the time of this publication.
“Our menu celebrates the bold, rich flavors of Southern Brazil through a carefully curated selection of fire-roasted meats, fresh salads, and authentic side dishes. Additionally, every item reflects our unwavering commitment to culinary excellence,” the Chama Gaúcha website reads.
“We proudly source only USDA Prime beef, aged over 45 days for optimal tenderness and flavor. Our skilled gauchos expertly prepare each cut and slow-roast it over an open flame before carving it tableside in true churrascaria style. Furthermore, from our signature picanha and filet mignon to warm pão de queijo and classic Brazilian flan, every bite transports you to the heart of Brazil.”
The name “Chama Gaúcha” literally translates to “flame of the gaucho” in Portuguese, honoring the centuries-old cooking traditions of Southern Brazil.
Try out the new Chama Gaúcha yourself when the eatery opens in Katy at 24205 KATY FWY this fall.

