The 2014 World Cup began on Thursday in Sao Paulo, and fútbol fans officially are in game-watching mode. To celebrate Brazil's second time hosting the World Cup, restaurants are creating special Brazilian-themed menus and items. Get in on the deals and specials with this guide, from a classic picanha steak to a two-for-one caipirinha deal.
See also: World Cup 2014: Guide to Eating and Drinking by Country in Miami
In tribute to the bold flavors of Brazil, executive chef Conor Hanlon is preparing an internationally-inspired mini mixed churrasco -- choice cuts of chicken, pork and beef marinated in a traditional mix of garlic, olive oil, lime, and oregano and grilled over an open flame, served with chimichurri sauce. Sides include steamed rice and black bean sofritto cooked in a fragrant stock with carrots, onions, celery, and garlic. Chef Hanlon's World Cup specialty dish will be available à la carte ($32) at the Dutch, Living Room and WET poolside.
Enjoy happy hour every Monday through Friday during the World Cup at the Brazilian steakhouse Area Code 55. The restaurant will feature a $19.99 lunch special until 6 p.m. for all World Cup games. Don't miss out on the drink special: Buy one caipirinha, get one free.
Cheer on your favorite team at Little Brazil, where they will show all games on two 60-inch TV screens. Enjoy four beers and an appetizer for $30, or get an appetizer for two. For $28, you can get the parrillada with rice and beans (a Brazilian staple), or the picanha. Try pairing the sausage and yuca with beer. The average price for items is around $16.
In honor of the World Cup and host country Brazil, BLT Prime has crafted a special new cocktail that will be available throughout the tournament for $16. The Sparkling Passion Fruit Caipirinha -- crafted with Leblon cachaça, Boiron passion fruit purée and sparkling wine -- is combined with muddled lime and sugar, making it the perfect refreshing libation to toast to the games.
On game days, arrive with by 2:30 p.m. to ensure you have a table in time for the game at this authentic Brazilian steakhouse. Once you're in, eat and drink to your heart's content and take advantage of the appetizers while you cheer on your equipo. Appetizers begin at $9, and include picanha; spinach dip; shrimp cocktails; polenta; skewers; a cheese board, and cured meats. Cocktails will be served and range from $9.75-$15.
Show your fútbol spirit at Oak Tavern and enjoy country-inspired drinks as you watch the most anticipated soccer games of 2014. The restaurant will feature a World Cup Caipirinha cocktail in honor of its host Brazil, as well as specially priced $5 A-Z libations paying homage to competing teams, including Aguardiente (Colombia); Fernet & Coke (Argentina); Gin & Tonic (England and Spain), and Tequila & Sangrita (Mexico). Pair your refreshing drinks with a bite and watch all the games on a HD widescreen at Oak Tavern's communal table.
Giraffa's Midtown will deliver food directly to fútbol fans. Guests will be able to call in their order, and "food runners" will take their orders to them while they are watching the games. Also, go to any Giraffas location through July 12 wearing your chosen team's jersey and get a free six-piece order of chicken ribs.
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