In the mood to try something new? The new answer for your carnivore cravings just opened on the central marina in Puerto Aventuras. Brasa Nova, a brand-new Brazilian rodizio-style steakhouse, officially opened its doors last Tuesday—bringing sizzling skewers, all-you-can-eat meats, and a generous buffet to our little marina.
For those unfamiliar with the Brazilian rodizio tradition, here’s what to expect: once seated, servers make continuous rounds to your table offering a rotation of freshly grilled meats—beef, pork, turkey, chorizo and more—carved right onto your plate. It’s an indulgent, festive dining style meant to be savored slowly with friends, cocktails, and plenty of appetite.
Diners are invited to start at the buffet which includes several fresh salads, ceviche, aguachile and Mexican shrimp cocktail. There is a variety of hot vegetable sides, seafood rice and even sushi rolls. There is a nice selection of desserts including sliced fruit if that’s all you can manage after so many skewers!
Guests can choose from two main dining options: the full rodizio experience that includes the buffet, meat service, and desserts—or just the buffet and dessert bar for a lighter (but still generous) meal. The restaurant also features a full bar, serving up caipirinhas, mojitos, or other tropical classics to accompany your meal. There is also a more than decent beer and wine selection. Nothing you haven’t seen before, but some reasonable options at fair prices.
For opening night, they offered a complimentary welcome drink. Guests could choose from refreshing mezcalito or traditional caipirinha. We opted for the maracuya mezcalito and it did not disappoint.
The servers were certainly hopping, bringing skewer after skewer of tasty meats cooked and seasoned to perfection. You could quickly tell that this was not their first night at the rodizio! They flew around the room from diner to diner like well-choreographed dancers performing for the crowd.
The pace was a little fast for me but the guys were happy to give us a break when we needed to slow things down or skip a round or two. There were a lot of options and I did not have room to try them all. My favorite has to be the house special, the picaña, so be sure to save room for that! Jim loved the brisket which was melt-in-your-mouth tender.
The restaurant space (formerly Tuk Tuk) has been completely transformed with sleek hardwood furnishing and comfortable and colorful cushions. The lighting—which so many restaurants get wrong—was warm and inviting and softened by the creamy fabric embellishments flowing overhead. It’s the kind of light you want on date night—if you know what I mean.
The restaurant is operated by father and son team, Eduardo “Lalo” Tager and his adorable son Samir. Eduardo senior, el abuelo, was keeping a watchful eye on opening night activities and I couldn’t help but grab a photo of the three generations of men proudly in their element.
Brasa Nova delivers flavor, variety, and a bit of theatrical flair—right in the heart of the marina. To my knowledge, this is the first Brazilian steakhouse in Puerto Aventuras. Brasa Nova might be shaping up to be a fun go-to spot for date nights, group dinners, and special occasions. Based on our first impression—on a busy opening night—they are off to a great start.
Opening up a new place at the beginning of the low season is very challenging. If you are out and about on the marina between 3 PM and 11 PM, stop in and say hello and welcome them to our community! Both Samir and his father Lalo are genuinely charming and enthusiastic and we wish them the very best in this exciting new endeavor.
Local PA residents take note: show your resident ID and receive 15% off when paying in cash. You can make a reservation via WhatsApp 984 254 9903 and be sure look out for special events and promotions on their Instagram account @brasanova_ptoaventuras.
Disclaimer: We do not receive compensation, free meals, or incentives of any kind from the restaurants featured on our site. All opinions are based on personal visits and genuine experiences and shared to inform and help our readers.
Looking for somewhere fun and delicious to eat? Don’t foget to check the our Complete Guide to Restaurants in Puerto Aventuras!
