Rodizio Grill is a vibrant Brazilian-style steakhouse franchise known for its festive dining experience and unlimited rotisserie-grilled meats carved tableside. It was founded in 1995 by Brazilian native Ivan Utrera in Littleton, Colorado, and is currently headquartered in Sandy, Utah.

The brand brings authentic Brazilian hospitality to the U.S. dining scene through its lively atmosphere and distinctive service style. Rodizio Grill began franchising in the United States in 1996.

Under the franchise system operated by Phoenix Franchise Group, the concept invites guests into a celebration-focused environment featuring a gourmet salad bar, Brazilian-style limeades and cocktails, and an energetic dining ambiance. Each location combines authentic cuisine with a fun, family-friendly experience that encourages social dining.

What sets Rodizio Grill apart is its true churrascaria format, where guests control the flow of meats carved tableside by gauchos. The restaurant emphasizes warm Brazilian hospitality, a unique “green-and-red” card system for service, and a festive, all-you-can-eat dining style.

Training

Rodizio Grill delivers an extensive training program for franchisees and their key staff to ensure operational readiness and adherence to brand standards. The training includes both mandatory and optional components, as outlined below:

1. Initial Training Program: Required for the Operating Principal, General Manager (if different), Kitchen Managers, and Grill Master(s), this program is held at a designated Rodizio Grill location. It includes comprehensive instruction on food prep, operations, marketing, recordkeeping, customer service, and technology systems. Training must be completed at least four weeks before opening, with all travel and living expenses covered by the franchisee.
2. Opening Assistance: Rodizio Grill sends 6–8 representatives for up to 7 days before grand opening and 1–3 representatives for up to 10 days post-opening. This on-site support helps with final setup and launching procedures. Additional support may be available based on the franchisee’s needs.
3. Additional and Replacement Training: New Operating Principals or managers must be trained and certified before managing the business. Optional training is available at $200 per person per day (waived if conducted at the franchisor’s site), with the franchisee responsible for travel and lodging costs.

Territory Protection

Rodizio Grill provides franchisees with a protected territory, meaning no other traditional Rodizio Grill units will be opened within the franchisee’s designated area during the agreement term. This area is generally around 10 driving miles in all directions or an area with a population of approximately 300,000, depending on factors like population density and business environment.

However, the franchisor reserves the right to adjust territory boundaries if the population increases by 100,000 or more. Despite this protection, Rodizio Grill can still operate or license non-traditional outlets—like those in airports, universities, or convention centers—inside or outside the protected territory.

Franchisees are not guaranteed rights to online or alternative distribution channels, which the franchisor may use freely within any area. Additionally, marketing and catering outside the assigned territory require prior written approval.