Fogo de Chão, a restaurant chain specialising in southern Brazilian cuisine, has announced the signing of a lease for its 11th location in Southern California.

The new 7,246ft² restaurant, situated at 1551 Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica, will open in late 2024.

The upcoming Santa Monica venue will complement Fogo de Chão's presence in the Los Angeles Metro area, Orange County and San Diego.

The company aims to introduce a novel dining experience to the west side of the city.

The restaurant's design, created in partnership with Innovation & Design in Architecture, will showcase the latest developments in Fogo de Chão's brand.

The venue will offer an enclosed patio overlooking the ocean.

Fogo de Chão CEO Barry McGowan said: “For nearly 45 years, Fogo has introduced the authentic flavours of Brazilian dining to cities around the world that cannot be experienced anywhere else.

“As we expand our southern California footprint, we look forward to offering Santa Monica community members and tourists alike a differentiated dining experience full of culinary discoveries.”

Last month, Fogo de Chão unveiled its plan to open 20 new locations as part of its global expansion.

The company will open new restaurants in the US and other international markets, building upon the momentum of previously announced domestic and international leases.

Its development pipeline for 2024 and 2025 includes new lease signings and restaurant openings, with the brand’s 100th restaurant milestone anticipated by the end of 2024.

Previously announced openings for 2024 include Bridgewater, Brooklyn, Miami, Orlando, Richmond and Seattle. Expansion in Canada is also on the horizon with agreements in place for Toronto and Vancouver.