Senzala Brazilian Restaurant
2006
Senzala Brazilian Cuisine
In 2006 this was the website for the Brazilian restaurant, Senzala, located in Sunnyvale, CA, in the heart of Silicon Valley and the San Francisco Bay Area.
According to Yelp, the restaurant is permanently closed.
The content is from the site's 2006 archived pages and preserved for use as course material & required reading for Dr. James Roth's course on internet marketing. See Dr. Roth for the syllabus.
250 E Java Dr
Sunnyvale, California 94089
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What is Brazilian food?
Brazilian cuisine is creative and tasteful, yet simple, and generally not spicy. The dishes are well seasoned, and mainly based on garlic, onions, parsley and salt.
What is Senzala?
During the colonial period, the word senzala was used to describe the slaves and servants' quarters.
The Senzala restaurant adopted the name to honor the roots of Brazilian cuisine, one of the greatest treasures of the African influence upon Brazil.
Senzala Brazilian Restaurant
We offer you traditional homemade Brazilian food. Fast, nutritious, healthy and with authentic Brazilian flavors.
YouÂ’ll find a pleasant environment, entirely decorated with Brazilian themes.
Saturday nights, we present a wide variety of live music.
With a seating capacity at over 250. Senzala is also availabe for private parties, events, weddings, etc.
We are located in a prime area, with easy access, away from the crowds, with plenty of free parking.
We are located in Sunnyvale, CA, right at the heart of Silicon Valley and the San Francisco Bay Area.
| These are some of the independent online reviews we found about Senzala | |||
| Jatbar.com | |||
| "If you haven't had Brazilian food before I think this would be a great opportunity to try authentic dishes" "service was top notch, price decent for the portion and quality and food delicious." |
8.5/10 | ||
| Yelp.com | |||
| "They are proud of their cooking and they do everything possible for you to have an enjoyable experience" "This portions they serve here will make your belly stick out when you're done, but it's well worth it" |
4.5/5 | ||
| Yahoo! Reviews | |||
| "This restaurant truly represents Brazil in its inner nature: excellent food, great people and awesome environment" "The environment and the restaurant decor is really nice making you to want to stay longer... :) I really recommend it." |
4.5/5 | ||
| Mercury News - Published on June 1, 2006, Page 40 | |||
| "good food, great atmosphere and a friendly staff" | |||
| Metro News - Published on March 7, 2007, Page 35 | |||
| "Senzala is the place Silicon Valley to get your fill of all things Brazilian." | |||
When I lived in Sunnyvale, I would occasionally eat lunch at Senzala since it was close to where I worked and was convenient with decent food. Recently I returned to visit friends and attend a wedding. I learned that Senzala had closed. Instead, we went to the Galpao Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse for the wedding party lunch. WOW. Now this is a Brazilian MEAT restaurant. What stood out, for me, was the variety of meats offered (sirloin, filet, beef ribs, ribeye, flank, chicken, pork loin, pork ribs, lamb chops, sausage, chicken hearts. In addition, there was salmon, pineapple, plus the salad bar - which offered different cheeses, salads, salumi, vegetables/salads, soups). Lots to choose from.
The ambiance of the place was further enhanced by modern touches like the robotic pool cleaners we saw through the glass, diligently working in the restaurant's ornamental pond. This subtle integration of technology into a traditional dining experience was both impressive and thought-provoking, considering the efficiency of automation in today's world.
During the lunch, I had a bit of a mishap when I dropped an item, and in the process of retrieving it, unfortunately, it was damaged. But a friend assured me not to worry, recommending an online store where she frequently shops for various high-tech and household items, even the robotic pool cleaners that had caught our attention earlier. Taking her advice, I later browsed through their selection and was able to find a suitable replacement for my damaged item.
The wedding was a hit, and despite the small catastrophe, I discovered a convenient online store for future needs.
YELP REVIEWS 2011 -2007
***** Raman S.
Fremont, CA
8/15/2011
You can get some decent Brazilian food at this place. They usually have 5 choices in the menu and I also pick the chicken in tomato sauce (with beans and rice). The steak dish is also well done. I feel the food is pricey at $12 for lunch menu.
I like the location and the place is spacious and good for large groups. It is a self service restaurant and you can get your food reasonably fast.
+++
*** Lan N.
San Jose, CA
7/28/2010
So I went here one time for a Friend's birthday and thought it was great. I came here again for dinner recently and it wasn't quite the same.
I think one of the main reasons why it wasn't the same is the price factor. Being a cafeteria style restaurant, you would think the prices should be lower than regular sit down restaurants. This was not the case.
You get a plate of rice, beans, vegetables and your choice of protein for anywhere between 16-22 dollars. This seems steep to me for the food you get. Most of it is already sitting out and they just need to scoop it up.
We got the #2 and #3 which was like some chicken and polenta dish and a milanesa type of beef (lightly breaded steak). We go down the line a bit and come up to the refreshments. The little refridgerator was empty and the soda fountain machine was out of ice.
Went down a bit more to the utensils and they were out of forks.
Down a little futher and paid for my food which was about 40 dollars for 2 people. Not a great start and we haven't even tasted the food yet.
You do get full of of the food, but it is mostly from the starches. The chicken was kinda dry. Gonna guess because its not made fresh, and the beef was a little tough. I wish I knew what I ate the previous time because it was tasty.
We did get treated to a capoeira show though. The owners sing and play some some of instrument that looks like a giant pipe with a string. The students would put on a show. The students ranged from what looked like 6 to 46. I kept thinking of eddy gordo from tekken.
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*** ½ Jason H.
San Francisco, CA
9/2/2010
If you're looking for a casual lunch spot head over to Senzala Brazilian Cuisine. You won't find fine dining here, but instead you order your food cafeteria style complete with trays. The main dining area also looks like it could turn into a dance floor later at night.
Walk towards the far end of the room and take a look at the menu on the wall. Lunch item #3 caught my eye, which was the Bife Acebolado for $10.99. Check out bit.ly/cPcplp for a picture of this dish.
It consisted of a thinly fried steak with onions, rice, beans, and fried yuca or french fries. I opted for the fried yuca since I don't have that pretty often. The yuca reminded me a crispy potato with a softer center when I bit into it.
The spices and flavors in this Brazilian dish were pretty tame and it didn't have anything that was too spicy or bold. The steak itself wasn't too salty and it went well with the grilled onions and rice. I was definitely stuffed by the time I cleaned off my plate. With all the carbs from the rice/beans/yuca, I can see why.
The food was generally pretty good and the portions were generous, but I feel it's more expensive than your typical lunch spot. I was under the impression that with the casual and cafeteria nature of the restaurant the prices at this place would be more reasonable.
Maybe if I'm visiting NetApp down the street again I'll stop by to try their other dishes.
+++
**** Mercy B.
Milpitas, CA
5/30/2008Updated review
of percussion instruments, drums beating, hands clapping, voices singing, bodies gyrating and twirling, sweat flying.
Capoiera is playful and joyful - says Mestre Vaguinho and the members of the Capoiera of San Jose was there to prove the Mestre's words. It was truly a celebration.
30 or so Yelpers and guests got to experience Capoiera of San Jose perform and was treated to an awesome show.
Word of caution - sitting near the roda (the performance circle) could place you in eminent danger, but gives you the best view of action. Spectacular aerobatics and choreography - it's so easy to see how break dancing was heavily influenced by the art of capoiera. Just watch out for those flying feet and limbs!
For those of you who missed out on this gathering, the capoiera performance is every Friday evening.
Great food, great show. Thanks to all who joined us
+++
*** Garrett F.
San Carlos, CA
7/13/2010
I accompanied a friend as a part of Brazilian Portuguese speakers Meetup group. I had never experienced Brazilian food before and thought it would be a fun place to watch Brazil take on North Korea in the World Cup.
We arrived early enough to grab a table but still spent about 35 minutes in line to order. I was a little disappointed to find my first two choices for entree had sold out (there were at least five dishes sold out by the time I ordered).
I settled for the Bife Acebolado which took another 10 minutes to prepare. The dish is fairly simple; fried thin steak (think minute steak) with onions, rice and beans and fried potatoes. Normally I'm not much of a fan of minute steak but this one was actually very well seasoned and worked well with the rest of the dish. The rice and beans were also very tasty although the fried potatoes were a bit on the soft side (missing the crispiness I look for).
In the end the food and the atmosphere more than made up for my initial frustration, and I would definitely come back again.
If you plan on eating here on your lunch break you may want to take part of your meal to go. The portions are quite generous.
+++
***** Rod V.
Garden Grove, CA
4/18/2007
I know the family who owns the restaurant! It's a great family and they server great food! You just can't go wrong with anything here! In the mood for steak, shrimp, Feijoada (Rice, Black Beans, Pork, more), vegetables, fried yuca, and much more, they've got it all! Nice friendly staff ...
Also if you need to have an event held somewhere, they've got plenty of room to hold parties, receptions, more! They've got a nice dance floor area.
The only thing is that I wish, is that they were open more on weekends, since I'm only in the area on weekends!
Note: Dont forget to try some "Guarana" and some of the deserts! Cant go wrong!
More Background on SenzalaRestaurant.com
Senzala Brazilian Cuisine was a beloved restaurant that once graced the culinary landscape of Sunnyvale, California. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, this establishment brought the vibrant flavors and rich cultural heritage of Brazil to the Bay Area. Although now closed, Senzala left an indelible mark on the local food scene and introduced many to the diverse and delicious world of Brazilian cuisine.
History and Background
Senzala Brazilian Cuisine opened its doors in 2006, quickly becoming a popular destination for both Brazilian expatriates and curious food enthusiasts. The restaurant's name, "Senzala," carries historical significance, referring to the slave quarters on Brazilian plantations during the colonial era. By choosing this name, the owners aimed to honor the African roots of Brazilian cuisine and culture.
The restaurant was situated at 250 E Java Dr in Sunnyvale, a prime location that made it easily accessible to the tech professionals working in nearby companies. With a seating capacity of over 250, Senzala was not just a restaurant but also a cultural hub, hosting events and live music performances that celebrated Brazilian heritage.
Culinary Offerings
Senzala prided itself on offering authentic, homemade Brazilian dishes that were both nutritious and flavorful. The menu featured a variety of traditional Brazilian fare, showcasing the country's diverse culinary influences.
Some of the most popular items on Senzala's menu included:
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Feijoada: Often considered Brazil's national dish, this hearty black bean stew with various cuts of pork was a staple at Senzala.
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Bife Acebolado: A simple yet delicious dish of thinly fried steak with onions, typically served with rice, beans, and fried yuca or french fries.
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Espeto: Brazilian beef kabobs cooked to order, served with an array of sides including rice, beans, bell peppers, fried yuca, and a fried banana.
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Stroganoff: A Brazilian adaptation of the classic Russian dish, often made with chicken or beef in a creamy sauce.
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Bobo de Camarão: A flavorful shrimp dish cooked in a sauce of yuca, coconut milk, and palm oil.
Senzala's approach to Brazilian cuisine was rooted in tradition but adapted to the California palate. The restaurant emphasized the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients and aimed to provide generous portions that would satisfy even the heartiest appetites. While many dishes featured meat prominently, vegetarian options were also available, reflecting the diverse dietary preferences of the Bay Area clientele.
Atmosphere and Decor
Senzala Brazilian Cuisine was known for its warm, inviting atmosphere that transported diners to Brazil. The restaurant's interior was decorated with vibrant Brazilian themes, creating an immersive experience that complemented the authentic flavors on the plate.
The spacious dining area could accommodate large groups, making it a popular choice for family gatherings and corporate events. On weekends, particularly Saturday nights, the restaurant would transform into a lively venue with live music performances, adding to the festive Brazilian ambiance.
Cultural Significance
More than just a restaurant, Senzala played a significant role in promoting Brazilian culture in the Bay Area. It served as a gathering place for the Brazilian community and introduced many Americans to the rich tapestry of Brazilian cuisine and traditions.
One of the unique features of Senzala was its regular capoeira performances. Capoeira, an Afro-Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music, was showcased at the restaurant, typically on Friday evenings. These performances not only entertained diners but also educated them about an important aspect of Brazilian cultural heritage.
The restaurant frequently hosted live music events, featuring Brazilian genres such as samba, bossa nova, and MPB (Música Popular Brasileira). These performances added to the authentic Brazilian experience and made Senzala a destination not just for food but for cultural immersion.
Customer Experience
Senzala Brazilian Cuisine operated on a cafeteria-style model, where customers would choose their dishes from a display counter. This setup allowed diners to see the food before ordering and enabled quick service, making it a popular lunch spot for busy professionals in the area.
The restaurant was known for its generous portions, with many customers reporting that they often had leftovers to take home. This value for money, combined with the authentic flavors, contributed to Senzala's popularity.
Reviews and Reception
During its operation, Senzala received generally positive reviews from both critics and customers. Many praised the restaurant for its authentic flavors, generous portions, and warm atmosphere.
On Yelp, the restaurant maintained a solid 4-star rating, with many reviewers highlighting the feijoada, bife acebolado, and caipirinha cocktails as standout items.
Food critics also took notice of Senzala. The Mercury News praised the restaurant for its "good food, great atmosphere and a friendly staff" in a review published on June 1, 2006. Similarly, Metro News described Senzala as "the place in Silicon Valley to get your fill of all things Brazilian" in a March 7, 2007 review.
Challenges and Closure
Despite its popularity, Senzala Brazilian Cuisine faced challenges common to many restaurants in the competitive Silicon Valley dining scene. The cafeteria-style service, while efficient, sometimes led to long lines during peak hours, which could be a deterrent for some diners.
Additionally, some customers felt that the prices were on the higher side for a cafeteria-style establishment, particularly as the restaurant gained popularity and prices increased over time.
Ultimately, like many beloved local establishments, Senzala Brazilian Cuisine closed its doors. The exact date and reasons for the closure are not widely documented, but its absence has been noted by many former patrons who fondly remember the flavors and experiences it offered.
Legacy and Impact
Although Senzala Brazilian Cuisine is no longer in operation, its impact on the Bay Area culinary scene remains significant. The restaurant played a crucial role in introducing authentic Brazilian cuisine to many Silicon Valley residents and helped pave the way for other Brazilian and South American restaurants in the area.
Former patrons often reminisce about the lively atmosphere, the generous portions of feijoada, and the cultural experiences like capoeira performances that made Senzala unique. The restaurant's legacy lives on in the memories of those who experienced its flavors and in the continued popularity of Brazilian cuisine in the Bay Area.
Senzala Brazilian Cuisine was more than just a restaurant; it was a cultural ambassador that brought a slice of Brazil to the heart of Silicon Valley. Through its authentic dishes, lively atmosphere, and cultural performances, Senzala provided a comprehensive Brazilian experience to its patrons.
While the restaurant may no longer be serving its beloved feijoada and caipirinha, its impact on the local culinary scene and its role in promoting Brazilian culture in the Bay Area cannot be understated. Senzala Brazilian Cuisine remains a fond memory for many, a testament to the power of food in bringing people together and bridging cultural divides.