Fogo De Chao Houston Friendswood

Seated 30 minutes late with a reservation at the worst table in the restaurant, out of sight and jammed against a corner wait station, listening to the staff complain. Slow service (and no service) at times despite sitting practically in their laps. Clearly not equipped for a crowd. I should have declined the table when they seated us, but will think long and hard before returning.

I have been to several Fogo’s in Texas and this location is my least favorite. The dining area reminded me of a cafeteria and while the restaurant was only half full of diners, it felt like it was packed. On my way to the salad bar and at the salad bar, I was bumped into by no less than 4 different waitresses staff. The same goes as I was exiting. My wife and I tend to dine early, especially since it was New Year’s Eve, so when I got to the salad bar and it seemed as if things had not been serviced for a while, I was surprised. I typically tend to overeat on the salad bar and then regret when the gauchos begin meat service…not so much on this visit. Maybe it has been awhile, maybe it is a change in corporate policy, or maybe it’s just this location, but after finishing salads, it was always nice to have the wait staff bring a fresh plate along with the sides before you flipped your card. Not here. I had ate most of what I was going to eat before two small plates of sides were brought to the table. Of course, the reason for visit is the meat. And I was not disappointed. But, an overall disappointment. I most likely will not return to this location, but I know and will always recommend Fogo in other locations that I have dined.

Less options of choices on the buffet compared to other Fogo de Chão locations. When requesting a certain temperature on the way the red meats were cooked, didn’t come out as requested. Maybe it’s because it was Christmas Day and I can understand maybe lack of full staff. Will try again on a less stressful day.

Exceptional attention and service from Alayna (sp? ; Jesus, the Manager, made the evening special and enjoyable by stopping at the table, periodically, and engaging in personable dialogue. The food was probably the best I've had at this location......some new selections and prepared brilliantly.

Grateful that the folks served us on Christmas but it wasn’t the usual experience.