Brazilian buffet extends from Mersey to Clyde

BRAZILIAN steakhouse Viva Brasil is spreading its wings with a move to Scotland after securing £200,000 of a £1.2m rollout fund from Santander.

The Liverpool-based restairant operator is to open a restaurant at 87-91 Bothwell Street – a Grade II-listed building most recently used as Glasgow’s main post office.

The bank is providing the cash via the government’s Enterprise Finance Guarantee scheme, with the larger pot being available to help the company rollout to other parts of the country. The practice already has its sights set on a Birmingham outlet.

Viva Brazil was aunched in Liverpool with a restaurant at Castle Street last year, which its owners say has exceeded expectations.

The restaurant operates a buffet-style concept, with around 15 different types of barbecued meat and a salad island with over 20 different types of salads, vegetables, cold meats, fruits, breads and sauces. It also serves eight traditional hot Brazilian dishes each day.

Managing director Andy Aldrich said: “Opening the Glasgow restaurant is a key milestone for the business. After the success in Liverpool, Glasgow was an ideal next step. Santander Corporate Banking has supported us right from the first restaurant and they’re continuing to offer that support as we expand and grow.”

Phillip Roscoe, relationship director at Santander, said: “I’m thrilled that Viva Brazil are focusing on their expansion and planning more locations. At Santander, we’re passionate about helping businesses grow and our ongoing support for Viva Brazil is an excellent example of this – we have been with them from the start, and I’m confident that our relationship will continue to flourish.”