ArticalExpo
With the soccer World Cup and the Summer Olympics on Brazil's horizon - and Carnaval right around the corner - the global profile of South America's largest country is on the rise. Sadly, most of our pop culture knowledge of Brazil is limited to the Amazon, the "Girl from Ipanema" and Carmen Miranda's headdress, so now is an opportune time to dig deeper into this vibrant culture. (And no, a Brazilian wax does not count as cultural insight.) While most of the large Brazilian communities are in Southern California, here are spots throughout the West where they know the difference between samba and Zumba.
1. Kitanda Brazilian Bakery, Redmond, Wash.
A taste of hot, humid Brazil in the drizzly Pacific Northwest? Who knew? Along with a host of culturally infused pastries, you'll find specialty dishes from deep-fried chicken dumplings to Brazilian cheese bread. Wash it all down with South American maté (if it's too early in day to mix Caipirinhas). 15230 NE 24th St., (425) 641-4413, www.kitanda.com.
2. Villa Brasil Motel, Los Angeles
This funky 18-room motel won't fool anyone into thinking they're in Brazil - just Los Angeles, sorry - but the tiled floors, walls in wildly brilliant shades and plants bursting from every corner make it a comfy and inexpensive place to celebrate the spirit of the country. Pop next door to Cafe Brasil for an empadinha or churrasco beef and a sangria. 11740 Washington Blvd., (310) 636-0141, www.villabrasilmotel.com.
3. Cafe Brasil, Santa Cruz
Look for the house on Mission Street with palms out front and painted in Brazil-flag green and yellow. Or just follow your nose to this popular restaurant known for its breakfast and lunch menus full of South American favorites. Order the traditional feijoada (a black bean and sausage stew), or if you're trying to stay slim for a Brazilian-size bikini - the beach is less than a mile away - go for the popular acai smoothie. 1410 Mission St., (831) 429-1855, www.cafebrasil.us.
4. Brasil Brasil Cultural Center, Los Angeles
If you hurry, you might just fit in some pre-Carnaval classes in Afro-Brazilian drumming, samba, Zumba and Brazilian Zouk. If you've been wondering what the big deal is about capoeira - you have to love a dance that is also a traditional art form and a fighting style - the cultural center hosts demonstrations, competitions and classes. 11928 Washington Blvd., (310) 397-3667, www.brasilbrasil.org.
5. Mercado Brasil, San Francisco
This tiny market is crammed to the walls with all manner of Brazilian food and merchandise, and seems to command a loyal following of transplants, tourists and fans of all things Brasil. Looking for a soccer jersey, cheese bread and a can of Guaraná Antártica like you had on Ipanema Beach? You're in the right place. 1252 Valencia St., (415) 285-3520, www.mercadobrasilsf.com (website in Portuguese).
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