A POPULAR restaurant chain is to open its first Scottish location.

Rio Brazilian Steakhouse, which operates seven restaurants south of the Border, is to take over the site of the former Jamie’s Italian at the Assembly Rooms in Edinburgh.

The 150-cover George Street site is due to open “early” in 2024 and will also feature a sushi bar.

Rodrigo Grassi, the co-owner of Rio Brazilian Steakhouse, said: “We are thrilled to announce that Rio Brazilian Steakhouse will be opening in Scotland for the first time early next year.

“A milestone moment for us, we can’t wait to bring the delicious South American flavours to Edinburgh – one of the UK’s most exciting foodie cities – and look forward to introducing our unique offerings to the Scottish market.”

The National:

Rio said in a press release that it would be its “non-stop meats concept, unlimited gourmet salad bar and authentic Brazilian Churrasco dining experience to the heart of the city centre”.

Diners are given a card with a red side and a green side. Showing chefs the green side will lead them to “continuously carve [meat cuts] at your table side until you say so”, according to the chain’s website.

Lunchtime prices for the set-cost menu start at £26.95 while evening prices are set at £39.95. Cheaper options are available for people who do not want meat.

Founded in Jesmond in November 2019, the Edinburgh site will add to Rio’s current locations in Jesmond, Newcastle’s Quayside, Middlesbrough, Durham City Centre, Warrington, Chester and York.

Rio Brazilian Steakhouse said its expansion into Edinburgh would bring “a number of employment opportunities”, with plans to recruit team members for a range of roles.

Interested applicants are encouraged to get in touch with their CVs by contacting careers@rio-steakhouse.co.uk.