Fogo de Chão Expands South American Footprint with Two Santiago Openings

Event summary

  • Fogo de Chão opened its first two locations in Chile, both in Santiago, in January and April 2026.
  • The restaurants feature premium amenities like a Dry Aged locker and Bar Fogo.
  • CEO Barry McGowan highlighted the strategic importance of entering the Chilean market.
  • Fogo de Chão plans further expansion in 2026, including openings in Las Vegas, Peabody, Charlotte, and Tegucigalpa.

The big picture

Fogo de Chão's entry into Chile marks its continued expansion in South America, a region closely tied to its Brazilian roots. The move aligns with broader trends in the restaurant industry, where international brands are increasingly targeting emerging markets for growth. The company's strategic openings in the U.S. and Central America further underscore its ambition to become a global churrasco leader.

What we're watching

Market Penetration
How Fogo de Chão will leverage its Brazilian heritage to compete in the Chilean dining market.
Expansion Strategy
Whether the company can sustain its aggressive growth pipeline across multiple international markets.
Operational Execution
The pace at which Fogo de Chão can maintain quality and service standards across new locations.