Brazilian steakhouse chain Fogo de Chão has announced the signing of a lease for a new restaurant in Virginia Beach, in the US state of Virginia.

Set to open in 2025, the 6,590ft² location will be situated at 4554 Virginia Beach Boulevard in the Pembroke Square mixed-use destination.

The upcoming Fogo de Chão restaurant will be the first on the Virginia coast, complementing existing locations in Richmond, Tysons and Reston.

Its design is a collaborative effort with IDA Experience, an architecture and design agency.

Central to the restaurant's design is an expansive dining room built around an open churrasco grill, allowing guests to observe gaucho chefs as they showcase the culinary art of churrasco.

The Market Table, a signature feature of Fogo de Chão, will be prominently placed within the restaurant, offering seasonal salads, fresh superfoods, cured meats and antipasti.

The restaurant will incorporate engaging social spaces in Bar Fogo and throughout the dining area to enhance guest interactions and enjoyment of crafted cocktails and South American wines alongside their churrasco.

A notable addition to the dining experience will be dry-aged meat lockers for in-house ageing of premium cuts such as a 32 oz Long-Bone Tomahawk Ribeye, aged for at least 42 days to develop its rich flavour profile.

Fogo de Chão chief executive officer Barry McGowan said, “Opening in Virginia Beach is a testament to the area's rapidly growing community, and we’re honoured to be part of it.

"The city’s strong sense of connection and dedication to bringing people together through food and culture aligns perfectly with our mission. We look forward to becoming a premiere dining option for the community and contributing to the vibrant culinary landscape that makes Virginia Beach so special."

The senior living community Aviva Pembroke, set within Pembroke Square, will welcome residents this winter, while construction of Hilton Tempo, a new hotel in the area, is set to commence early in 2025.