John Manion pays tribute to Brazilian cuisine at his new restaurant, Brasero

John Manion introduced Chicago diners to Brazilian ingredients and flavors when he opened La Sirena Clandestina back in 2012. It’s a cuisine that’s near and dear to his heart and palate, as the chef spent part of his childhood living in Sao Paolo. Manion went on to open El Che Steakhouse & Bar, where the menu covers more of South America with a focus on meats cooked over live fire. But when La Sirena Clandestina closed in 2019, he always had the vision to open a more expansive Brazilian restaurant in Chicago. That vision became a reality in February with the launch of Brasero, a tribute to Brazilian flavors and cooking. The menu features woodfire-grilled seafood and meats and a slow-cooked over charcoal marinated chicken. Manion also offers his take on feijoada, personalizing Brazil’s national dish with elements like a smoked and braised beef shank, fermented collard green kimchi and orange mostarda. Listen as the chef-owner talks about how he revolutionized live-fire cooking at El Che, gives the lowdown on Brasero’s unique wine program and menu, and shares how he blends a bit of the Midwest into all his restaurants.