Brazilian restaurant chain Fogo de Chão has announced a plan to open its newest location in Chicago, Illinois, US in 2024.

The restaurant group signed a lease agreement for an 8,500ft² restaurant, its fifth location in the Chicago metropolitan area, which is known colloquially as Chicagoland.

The restaurant will be located across the street from Woodfield Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in Illinois.

In 2023, Fogo de Chão has signed 22 new domestic and international leases and opened restaurants across the US in locations including Providence in Rhode Island, Thousand Oaks in California, Irving in Texas and Wayne, New Jersey.

Its newest location in Schaumburg will be designed by architecture firm SGD, showcasing Fogo’s enhancements in design and innovation platforms within an approachable setting.

It will feature a large dining room centred around an open churrasco grill where guests can view the chefs preparing their food.

A market table at the front of the grill will offer seasonal salads, fresh superfoods, cured meats and antipasti.

Menu innovations and new dining experiences include Bar Fogo Features, Butcher Shop options, group and private dining, To-Go and Weekday Lunches and Weekend Brazilian Brunch.

Fogo de Chão CEO Barry McGowan stated: “As a major hub for business, economic development and commerce in the Midwest, we are excited to expand in the Chicago market.

“We look forward to bringing the culinary art of churrasco to Schaumburg’s residents, working professionals and business travellers to enjoy as we have in the Chicagoland area for the past 21 years.”

In November 2023, the restaurant group signed a lease agreement to debut in Nashville, Tennessee. This location is scheduled for opening in 2025 at a mixed-use development known as Nashville Yards.