Fogo de Chão Expands Georgia Footprint with New Buford Location

Event summary

  • Fogo de Chão opened its third Georgia location in Buford on March 30, 2026, near the Mall of Georgia.
  • The restaurant will donate 10% of its first week's sales to the North Gwinnett Co-Op.
  • The new location features an open churrasco grill, Bar Fogo area, and private dining spaces.
  • Leandro Benacchio, a 29-year Fogo veteran, leads the Mall of Georgia team.

The big picture

Fogo de Chão's expansion into Buford underscores its strategy of targeting high-traffic areas near major shopping centers, a move that aligns with broader trends in experiential dining. The company's focus on community engagement and charitable donations also reflects a growing emphasis on corporate social responsibility within the hospitality industry. With this being its third location in Georgia, Fogo is solidifying its presence in a state known for its vibrant food scene and affluent suburbs.

What we're watching

Market Penetration
How Fogo de Chão's expansion near the Mall of Georgia will impact its market share in the competitive Atlanta dining scene.
Operational Execution
Whether the new location can maintain the quality and service standards that have defined Fogo's brand.
Community Impact
The pace at which the restaurant integrates into the Buford community and the effectiveness of its charitable initiatives.

Related topics

Expansion