The hugely-popular North East chain has relocated its Durham branch from Walkergate to Riverwalk to meet demand at a larger site.
Co-owners Rodrigo Grassi Duarte and Howard Eggleston said it’s allowed them to increase the capacity to 160 covers, alongside enhanced kitchen facilities.
Rodrigo Grassi Duarte said:“Rio Brazilian Steakhouse has always stood for authenticity, quality, and hospitality and over the last three years we have become heavily rooted in the city, however, weekend after weekend we’ve had to turn bookings away due to capacity constraints at our existing site.
“We have been deeply grateful for the ongoing support of our guests and the wider Durham community, and this expansion allows us to serve more people while maintaining the high standards that define the Rio Brazilian Steakhouse experience.”
Howard added:“The move to The Riverwalk marks an exciting new chapter for the restaurant, and represents an investment not only in our restaurant, but in the North East community.
“We are proud to further invest in the city with the move to a larger location enabling us to better serve our growing customer base.”
Here’s a look around the new site:
1. On the banks of the Wear
The new RIO has opened on The Riverwalk in the former Estabulo site which closed earlier this year. | Sunderland Echo
2. A new chapter
The opening marks a new look for the brand, with more of a speakeasy-style aesthetic. | Sunderland Echo
3. Meeting demand
The move has allowed the team to increase the capacity to 160 covers, after regularly having to turn people away at the former Walkergate site, which was smaller in size. | Sunderland Echo
4. Carnival spirit
The brand's trademark Brazilian dancers opened the new venture in colourful style. | Sunderland Echo