Spotlight on Food: Bossa Nova Brazilian Cuisine
By: Holly Holstein
In a city known for big name restaurants with even bigger price tags one local favorite surpasses them all in both style and flavor, while avoiding the hype. Bossa Nova Brazilian Cuisine boasts a vast array of delicious dishes for a fraction of the cost of those flash-in-the-pan Los Angeles eateries. Its indoor/outdoor patio invites good friends and good conversation into the wee hours of the morning. No one is talking big deals here, just enjoying the food, the company, and forgetting about the concrete jungle that surrounds them. And with open hours until 4 a.m. that enjoyment can last just a little bit longer.
For a truly religious experience, sample the chicken brochette appetizer. Seasoned chicken pieces are wrapped in bacon atop a fresh slice of bread. Then, la pièce de résistance, a sea of gorgonzola cream sauce accompanies the brochette for your dipping pleasure. It is magical.
If you have trouble deciding from the many entrées available go for the Brazilian classic, the steak. Their steaks fully live up to the Brazilian tradition of taste and tenderness. The blackened Cajun chicken is also amazing, with peppers and mushrooms in a creamy Cajun sauce. Side items include rice and either french fries or plantains. There is also a modest vegetarian selection including a delicious vegetable lasagna. Portions are generous, so come with an appetite.
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For dessert, it’s no surprise that bananas rule the menu. A South American staple, you can get them in a cheesecake, on top of pizza, or caramelized and served with ice cream. If bananas aren’t your thing try their homemade flan or tiramisu. No matter what you decide on, you can’t go wrong. In fact, the biggest mistake you can make at Bossa Nova is not leaving room for dessert.
If you are still having trouble deciding, consult the very friendly, very knowledgeable staff. They are more than happy to share with you the house specialties as well as their personal favorites. With great food and great staff, it’s no wonder Bossa Nova has held its popularity since 1993, when owners Francisco and Aurelio opened their first location in West Hollywood. Today, with four locations throughout the Los Angeles area, you can satisfy your late night craving from any part of town. Stop in during dinner hour or after a late night of dancing. Either way it is guaranteed to make your evening.