Kat the Bar Wench

The first week back from vacation is always a bit hectic. After camping for Father’s Day Weekend we came home spent. So, the week seemed longer and busier. Finally, Friday came along. After putting all the camp gear back in storage, my better half and I found ourselves with an hour or two on the town.

We drove rather aimlessly until we found ourselves at Galpao Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse in Cupertino. The parking was packed and there were several groups standing outside -a good omen, in my opinion. Upon entering the salacious smells descended upon us and the ambiance likewise embraced us. Gentle lighting, subtle music and a warm greeting immediately welcomed our entry. The restaurant was buzzing, but the bar was wonderfully wide open.

My plan was nonexistent and the entire visit spontaneous happenstance, but we enjoyed every moment at the Galpao Bar. We were enthusiastically acknowledged by the bartender and offered a limited menu. The actual “Full Experience” is only available in the dining room. From my vantage point at the bar the show was still amazing as dozens of team members danced by with 17 different giant skewers of meat. An intricate series of steps ensured every guest had the opportunity to be graced a visit from each server in the carnivore’s delight performance.

The limited bar menu did not detract from our experience. We definitely enjoyed our reconnaissance mission and intend to return with our foodie spawn another time.

My man ordered a draft, the Hazy Little Thing from Sierra Nevada. While I waffled between a delicious sounding smoky salted paloma and their Barrel Aged Manhattan… Being completely unoriginal I went with my whiskey loving heart. Bulleit Rye, vermouth and bitters that have mellowed out and gotten friendly in an oak barrel… So yummy.

We weren’t out for the night and could only steal a moment, so the cheese assortment seemed the perfect accompaniment to our libations. Several cheeses, an olive medley and fresh crusty sourdough made a lovely snack as we peppered the bartender with questions about the establishment.

The traffic flow passing the bar allowed us the opportunity to truly see everything coming and going throughout our visit. The aromas still linger in my memory. We are already looking forward to our Full Experience another time.