Bites Nearby: Samba Taste of Brazil

You don't feel like cooking, and you want to get out of the house.  And while you're looking for something to tickle your tastebuds, parking in downtown Minneapolis just seems too daunting in the cold.

This week we found a place about a 15-minute drive from Golden Valley that's worth giving a try.

Not every restaurant in the Twin Cities offers live music, intimate seating and flavorful food. Diners can find that magical combination right in downtown Hopkins at —an authentic Brazilian restaurant serving traditional Brazilian fare. 

Samba's chefs serve cuisine flavored with spices, but it's not a hot spicy.  The lunch menu features entrees under $10, salads, sandwiches, appetizers and drinks. The dinner menu features appetizers, salads, pastas and a large selection of entrees—including pork, chicken, seafood and steak. 

Less adventurous diners can find Italian favorites—such as parmigiana, lasagna and spaghetti—as well as baked salmon and tilapia mixed with the traditional Brazilian fare.

Samba has a special kids menu just for smaller diners. The restaurant also features gluten-free entrees, delectable desserts and authentic Brazilian cocktails. After dining, patrons can purchase authentic Brazilian food from the grocery attached to the restaurant to take home and enjoy.

Samba's name refers to the traditional dance and music that has become a symbol of the Brazilian culture. Every Friday and Saturday night from 5:30-9 p.m., the restaurant provides its diners with a sample of that music live, courtesy of musician Sergio Rosa.

Samba, on 922 Mainstreet in Hopkins, offers reservations by calling 952-935-2708 or visiting the restaurant's website.