Beach Lounge Bar’s bringing Brazilian and International flair to Sunny Isles Beach

By Josie GulliksenOwner Henrique Saldanha is bringing a taste of authentic Brazil to his Beach Lounge Bar and Restaurant in Sunny Isles Beach. From the logo to the music and the menu, Saldanha sets the ...  perfect ambiance.“We have a section in the menu titled ‘The Brazilian corner’ and our logo is the same as the famous Copacabana beach sidewalk. Even though I am not from Rio, I am from the area of Victoria, it is one of Brazil’s most iconic and recognized areas,” he said. “We also make everything fresh on premises.”Gutting the interior and opening it up was Saldanha’s mission. Maintaining a few of the original areas, he re-designed the rest. The bar is much larger, features interchangeable lights and the black and white logo made of river stones. Wood columns and walls are made of recycled pallets and an outdoor seating area resembles a chic poolside on South Beach with cushiony seating and fabric curtains and cover for shade and privacy.The menu is a labor of love by Saldanha, a Cordon Bleu-trained chef and his chefs on staff. Yuka fritters, dry beef risotto and octopus rice are all Brazilian/Portuguese-influenced dishes. The Moqueca Capixaba, a fish stew served with jasmine rice and piaro is a tribute to his hometown area of Victoria. For dessert, the trio of Brigadeiro consists of the traditional condensed milk, chocolate and butter served alongside pistachio and white versions presented on teaspoons. The accompanying Chiquita banana drink cleanses the palette between servings. Presentation in all the dishes is key.Their fantastic drink list, created by mixologist Douglas Beedo features cocktails made exclusively with the Brazilian liquor Leblon, and well drinks with Skyy Vodka. Check out their phenomenal happy hour specials on their website.