Every Saturday evening in Fort Lauderdale’s Sailboat Bend neighborhood, Regina’s Farm comes alive with the sights, smells, and sounds of a Brazilian-inspired backyard feast. What began as Regina Rodrigues’ personal homage to the open-air eateries of her hometown in Minas Gerais, Brazil, has grown into one of South Florida’s most coveted dining experiences. Guests gather in her backyard—complete with chickens, rabbits, and gardens—for a communal four-hour meal that feels more like a family celebration than a restaurant outing.

Since opening in 2013, Regina’s Farm has drawn people from all over Florida eager to experience the two dozen dishes served each week. The menu celebrates the comforting flavors of Brazil, from feijoada and churrasco to homemade soups, cheese bread, salads, and decadent desserts like live-flipped flan and brigadeiro. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are abundant, and the meal is always accompanied by fresh sugarcane juice and a BYOB-friendly atmosphere. Kids are welcome, too, with plenty of activities including train rides, swings, and feeding the animals.

Behind the scenes, a team of 13 helpers makes the magic possible, preparing and serving food for up to 150 guests each Saturday. Proceeds from the event go to support the Las Olas Worship Center across the street, where Regina’s husband, Elizeu, serves as pastor. Any leftovers are shared with the local community after Sunday services, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Reservations are made exclusively by text, and patience is essential—thanks to word of mouth, viral videos, and glowing reviews, the waitlist has stretched into 2029. Still, locals sometimes snag last-minute seats through the “short waitlist” when cancellations occur. For many, the long wait is worth it. As Rodrigues puts it, “It’s a celebration of life together with other people. It’s an experience, you don’t hurry up.”