Community Highlight: Brazilian Table
Within its seasonally themed planter boxes, artisan crafts, and locals popping in and out of their favorite independent bookshop, something new has opened its doors in Lititz, Pennsylvania.
Brazilian Table, owned by renowned chef Silvia Boff, opened in August and introduced another central spot for homemade cuisine. One of Silvia’s daughters, Mariana, sat down to chat more about what the Table offers the community and those passing through.
Why Lititz?
“When a location on Main Street was opening, we were forcefully encouraged by our friends and family to get on the list.” Mariana explained that Brazilian Table's inspiration began with her first child's arrival, officially bringing Silvia to the United States: "My parents loved it [Lititz], even from Brazil. She knew she wouldn’t open a place unless it were here.”
When moving to small-town life became more of a reality, it was unknown how Silvia’s cooking would change. "We are big city people. Our town had about 100,000 people – which in Brazil isn’t even deemed an actual city,” Mariana stated that life was fast-paced. Yet, Silvia’s cooking style kept up with the bustle.
However, it soon became apparent that Silvia’s passion for cooking did not have to alter; in fact, she could thrive within the food community of Lititz. “Brazilians are all about a collab,” Mariana described that collaboration has brought Brazilian Table to work alongside other local businesses in Lititz. For example, the olive oils used are from Olio, Zest Cooking School hosts classes with Silvia, and Bunyaad helps identify their passion for Brazilian coffee through their fair-trade products. “It’s all connected,” Mariana explained.
What does Brazilian Table bring to the community?
“When applying for our space, we said, we want to bring culture.” Mariana sheds light on another local restaurant, “We have Chilango’s, which is Mexican food, and it’s awesome – but there’s just not too much else that’s adventurously ethnic.”
Brazilian Table highlights how food can bring people together and provide a place of comfort. The Brazilians in the surrounding area have felt that sensation, drawn to Silvia for her authentic cuisine. She reminds them that despite their roots being far away, they no longer have to dream of the memories connected to their favorite treat.
Silvia’s desire to feed those coming into the café teaches the importance of gathering, to come and have a seat at the Table.
Take a seat at the Table
When customers walk into the café, they can expect to feel as though they have just stepped foot into a home because, in a way, they are, “The decorations?” Mariana smiled and pointed around the shop to a cloth tapestry adorned with butterflies and an antique display of silver spoons, “This is my mom's house.”
Despite being open for nearly four months, you wouldn’t expect the interior to feel already established. Still, the cafe feels like a space that has existed for decades – the passion is woven into its fibers.
However, let’s not forget one of the critical aspects any small business hopes to achieve – regulars. “They are our bread and butter,” Mariana stated. She said that Brazilian Table establishes food addictions, and even still, the high tourism of Lititz can’t keep the faithful fans at bay.
“She keeps adopting people,” Mariana giggled and shared about the endless love Silvia expresses to every customer who comes through the door. “You can come in and ask for something, and she’ll insist on making a fresh one – the phrase ‘Just ask Aunt Silvia’ has become known by our customers.”
How does it feel working with family?
“Family is everything; that’s what my mom wanted,” Mariana explained that everyone helped out with the café. Her brother created their website and social media, which Mariana now manages fully, and her father continues his support in multiple ways, despite being primarily in Brazil.
“For the first time, my mom is the breadwinner,” Mariana shared that Silvia would do anything to keep the café thriving. “If there’s a new dessert she wants to work on, then she’ll be in the kitchen until 5 am – so, it’s all about finding the right rhythm, and I think we’re nearly there.”
What’s on the menu?
Brazilian Table’s menu has its core items such as the Brazilian carrot cake (Fatia de Bolo de Cenoura), chicken croquette (Coxinha de Frango), yucca and coconut cake—Mariana’s favorite—and of course, the item that started it all, pineapple coconut cake (Bolo de Pote de Abacaxi com Coco).
Mariana went on to state that their menu is ever-changing and constantly expanding. For example, their tomato soup was supposed to be a one-time special, but it stayed on the regular menu due to popular demand. So now, it’s the perfect lunch option and can be paired with a piece of cheese bread known as Pão de Queijo – with its crunchy exterior quickly intermingling with the soft and gooey inside that feels like a warm hug.
What makes the menu even more remarkable is that it's distinctly homemade, “Everything is made from scratch; there is nothing store-bought.” So, arrive prepared to walk away stuffed, as Mariana vehemently shared, “Brazilian food is over the top, and the food here fills you up.”
Made with Love
“It’s going to sound cliché, but it’s all truly made with love by a crazy person that makes this her life.” Yet, at its root, Brazilian Table is the beginning of Silvia’s American dream. “That’s how Silvia shows her love to people, through that act of service,” Mariana continued, “She’s bougie, she’s extra – but she cares because we don’t sell food, we sell experiences.”
Mariana went on to share her proudest moment since opening, and that was the realization that Silvia’s life had become completely self-sufficient. If Silvia envisions it, then she will achieve it. Next step? Michelin stars. “Is she passionate about it? Yeah. Sleep is psychological. Rest is psychological. She has burnt hands and a shoulder that’s killing her – she’s happy, she’s smiling.”
While Brazilian Table continues to keep its ground and navigate the small business world, those that have visited once, twice, or perhaps daily can already visualize something genuinely magnificent – a destination spot within the charmed and picturesque town of Lititz, Pennsylvania.
By: Lindsey McIntosh