Sabor De Vida - Encinitas

Prrettyyy...pretttyyyy...decent. I sampled a bunch of sides. And all averaged soso. There's an outdoor patio set up covid style and also interior seating as well. Pros: service! Pastel dough was fried crusty and delicious. The beef interior could have used more flavor elements but was good nonetheless. The chicken croquette was very big like they should be and it had good flavor. Cons: half way into the beef pastel i discovered some surprise elements which i can only guess are chopped intestine bits. Not surprised given the culture but wish there was some heads up. Also the beef could have used some bell pepper or something to add variety and dimension. The chicken croquette while good had a creamy whipped texture to the meat rather than shredded and i wasnt a fan of that. Biggest bummer was that the pao de quejo which i came for was hard and tasted like it had been exposed in the refrigerator. Overall I wouldnt be mad to come again but I dont know that Id come out of my way.

The food was the bomb. very fresh and so much flavor. fast service as we walked in to order food-to-go. My meal was everything i hope for and more. and 2 days later after being able to finish it, I ate the rest at work and it still was great. Don't forget to try the appetizers. sooo good!!

Sat outside which was okay. The staff was nice, but wouldn't give personal opinions on things and just showed pictures of the food which was a first for me lol Got the bbq platter. Most of the meat was bland and not very flavorful. The best thing on the plate was the red peppers and the French fries it came with. It was reasonably priced so there's that at least.

I enjoy their meals and have been receiving constant service and food quality even when taking it out. I do wish they had more space indoor and could make it cozier because tables inside are close to the bathrooms. While covid we have only done take out. The food prices are on the higher side but their weekend special 'Feijoada ' is delicious and definitely worth recommending. In addition we had different other meals which we all liked! There isn 't one I cannot recommend- it tastes great! Their appetizers are all authentic and delicious. The restaurant is conveniently located and I always find parking in front of the restaurant. Definitely worth a try.

I recommend as an appetizer the coxinha and as entree the combo plate. It is a good way of starting with Brazilian food. According to my Brazilian girlfriend this place is pretty legit as Brazilian restaurant. And they have a micro store with Brazilian products in a corner of the restaurant.