L’Entrecôte de Paris plans six new restaurants in Portugal and Spain by 2027, expanding its single-dish bistro concept in Europe.
Growth in the Iberian market
Recognized in Brazil as a reference in contemporary bistro dining with a single main dish, L’Entrecôte de Paris advances its international expansion. The brand, part of the SMZTO group, now focuses on Portugal and Spain. This move represents a new step in its European growth strategy.
According to executive director Glaucia Fernandes, the chain plans to open three more units in Portugal by the end of 2027. Cities such as Braga are on the expansion radar. The brand entered the Portuguese market in 2024, with franchises in Cascais and Lisbon.
In Spain, L’Entrecôte de Paris expects to open three additional units over the next two years. Thus, the company foresees a total of six new restaurants across the Iberian Peninsula. The strategy consolidates its presence beyond the Brazilian market.
Single-dish bistro experience
Founded in 2009, L’Entrecôte de Paris stands out with a lean and highly specialized menu. The restaurant offers a single main course: the classic entrecôte, cooked to perfection, served with crispy French fries and the house secret sauce. The recipe has 21 ingredients and requires more than 36 hours of preparation.
The concept, inspired by Parisian bistros, quickly won over Brazilian customers. The brand became known for its consistency, agile service, and welcoming atmosphere. In this way, it combines a fine dining experience with an efficient operation.
“The single-dish model allowed us to scale quality, standardization and lean operations. Now we are ready to expand this experience to new markets, starting with Portugal and Spain, which share cultural ties with Brazil and have a vibrant food scene open to new concepts,” says Glaucia Fernandes.
Bistrô Petit model and franchise data
The brand’s priority is to grow with the ‘Bistrô Petit’ model, which requires lower investment and a streamlined management structure. At the same time, it preserves the established service standards and customer experience. This approach supports sustainable expansion.
Restaurants operating under the Bistrô Petit format occupy spaces of around 100 m², seating up to 50 guests. The interior is modern, intimate and cozy, echoing traditional Parisian bistros. The goal is to deliver a complete immersive experience.
The investment to open a L’Entrecôte de Paris franchise is approximately R$ 950,000. The expected payback period ranges from 18 to 24 months, with average monthly revenue of R$ 450,000. Each unit requires about 18 employees for daily operations.
Strategy and next steps
According to the executive director, the company is in an advanced stage of market research, site selection and local team structuring. Furthermore, the focus is on adapting to each region while preserving the brand’s identity. The aim is to deliver a uniform experience worldwide.
“Our mission is to replicate the brand’s essence, respecting local specificities and maintaining the high quality standards that define us,” concludes Glaucia Fernandes. Thus, L’Entrecôte de Paris strengthens its international expansion project.
About L’Entrecôte de Paris
Founded in 2009, L’Entrecôte de Paris is recognized as the first restaurant to popularize the single-dish concept in Brazil. The star of the menu is the sliced, tender and juicy entrecôte. The brand is part of the SMZTO Group.
The chain offers three business models: the traditional format, with a large dining room; the more intimate Bistrô Petit concept; and the Dark Kitchen, focused solely on delivery. Today, the network operates 34 units, including 14 dine-in restaurants and 20 Dark Kitchens.
L’Entrecôte de Paris is a member of the Brazilian Franchising Association (ABF). In 2024, it received the Franchising Excellence Seal, which recognizes best practices in the sector. The brand continues to expand both in Brazil and abroad.