Fazenda Chapadão

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The peaceful setting was a big part of why my husband and I chose Fazenda Chapadão, and we loved the calm, the fruit trees, and the four very welcoming dogs. Our rustic, cozy room had just the right amount of comfort and farm simplicity. Ana and Xavier are what would bring me back. Ana made us feel at home almost immediately, with the care she put into setting the table, talking with guests, and looking after us. Leaving was emotional. Thiago was helpful and attentive throughout our stay, too. We also had some disappointments. The telescope experience and the marshmallow bonfire that had been offered weren't available. During heavy rain, water leaked into the dining area, so we couldn't eat there. We went back to our room, but the path that was supposed to be sheltered had no roof and we got quite wet. Xavier's cooking was a real highlight. In 47 years of experience, he has clearly perfected the details. His risotto was the best my husband and I have ever had, better than ones I've tried at upscale restaurants. Breakfast was excellent as well, especially the proper French bread he makes himself. You can tell Ana and Xavier put love into everything, and the peace of the place made the stay special despite those issues.

The meal itself was acceptable, but the cleanliness made this a very unpleasant visit. The tables were dusty and stained, and there was visible dirt on the cutlery, glasses, and plates. It made us uncomfortable and even disgusted. There were no paper napkins, and the bathroom had no soap. We stayed and ate because we felt awkward leaving, since we were the only customers there. We had arrived around 1:30 p.m. and hadn't seen another guest. The gate was shut, and no staff member came to welcome us, so I had to get out of the car and open and close it myself. We'd been in Serra Negra and chose this restaurant farther out, surrounded by nature, after seeing the positive reviews and online photos. We called and reserved a table, and were told the day's dish would be feijoada, which was fine. Given all the good reviews, I still wonder what happened that day. If the restaurant wasn't ready for customers, why confirm our reservation? It was a big disappointment.

Ana welcomed us when we arrived and made us feel at home right away. Xavier is just as thoughtful. Since I have a food allergy, he prepared a special meal that fit my restrictions. His cooking was outstanding, and even after eating at Michelin-starred restaurants, I can say everything we were served had the quality and care of fine dining, with the simplicity of the countryside. Ana and Xavier put love into the whole experience, from greeting guests to setting the table and chatting with us. My wife and I were celebrating our wedding anniversary at Fazenda Chapadão. The grounds are lovely, with shady trees, fruit to pick, a pleasant outdoor area, and hammocks for relaxing after a meal. A few very affectionate dogs greeted us, too. It's a wonderful place to stay, unwind, and eat well. Xavier is polite and attentive, and we'll definitely return. I'd like to bring my parents to see it as well.