For those travelling to Brazil who want to experience a genuine Brazilian barbecue, Estância Dom Juan is the right address in Búzios. Located in the tranquil Ferradura neighbourhood, away from the bustle of Rua das Pedras, this churrascaria offers a full rodízio service with premium beef cuts, artisan sausages and free-range chicken, in a spacious and welcoming setting that evokes the farm estates of Brazil’s interior.
The Rodízio
The rodízio service — an all-you-can-eat rotational BBQ — is the heart of the house. Carvers circulate between tables with skewers of different cuts: picanha (rump cap) on the grill, slow-roasted beef ribs, flank steak, top sirloin and hump steak. Each cut is served at its ideal point, carved table-side by the carver. The side buffet includes artisan farofa (toasted cassava), fresh vinaigrette, garlic bread, rice, beans and assorted salads. For non-meat-eaters, the buffet also features warm cheese, pão de queijo (cheese bread) and grilled vegetables.
The Ribs and the Highlights
The star of the house is the slow-roasted beef rib, prepared for over 6 hours at indirect heat until it reaches a melt-in-your-mouth texture — considered by many regulars to be the best ribs in Búzios. The grilled picanha is another highlight, always juicy and seasoned with just coarse salt to enhance the meat’s natural flavour.
Atmosphere
Estância Dom Juan’s dining room has large tables with space for big families, groups of friends and celebrations. The covered rustic structure of wood and exposed brick creates a farmhouse atmosphere that pleasantly contrasts with Búzios’s coastal landscape. On weekends, the venue fills up with families arriving after the beach for a hearty lunch — a typical ritual among the region’s regular summer visitors.
Visit Tips
Estância Dom Juan operates mainly on weekends and public holidays. Check opening hours before visiting, especially in the low season. Reservations are recommended for large groups. It is about a 10-minute drive from Búzios town centre in the Ferradura area — well worth the detour for those seeking a dining experience away from the waterfront.
