The Name
In Brazil, a simple “oi!” means so much more than "hello." It’s how we greet each other: casual, friendly, and open.
The word comes from “olhai”, an old Portuguese exclamation meaning “look!” or “pay attention!” Over time, this became the more pithy "oi!" you'll hear today. What began as a way to catch someone’s attention became one of the most common greetings in Brazil - warm, direct, and full of presence.
For Spenny and Matheus, "Oi!" seemed like the perfect name for an endeavor in Brazilian American fusion. It reflects how we want to welcome you like any Brazilian would: with open arms and a full plate.
The Mascots
The Mico-leão-dourado is an endangered monkey that is found only in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil. They are smaller than a squirrel and live in family groups where everyone helps raise the babies. They eat almost anything they can find, from flowers to frogs, and sleep in tree holes at night.
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The great horned owl is one of the most widespread owls throughout the Americas. They mate for life, hunting anything that moves and hooting duets with their partners. Their eyes are as big as ours, and although they can't move them, they can rotate their heads 270º.
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Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Matheus is vibrant, bold, and full of fire like our little monkey friend. She is adventurous, curious, and unafraid to shake things up in the kitchen.
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Spenny, born and raised in the PNW, much like the owl, is observant, precise, and a creature of the night. He brings an unshakable sense of craft and wisdom to the table.
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Together, they are day and night, fire and focus. Brazilian heat and Cascadian cool culminating in food that's both widely creative and deeply grounded.
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Their partnership, like their plates, is all about balance. Passion with precision, play with purpose; and that's exactly what you'll taste in their culinary offerings: great food that is joyful as it is intentional.
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The Chefs
Partners Spenny and Matheus connected over a shared devotion to creating in the kitchen with fresh, local ingredients.
Matheus, born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, is a self-taught cook who brings to every creation the unpretentious style and taste of their hometown.
For over a decade, PNW-native Spenny has worked in kitchens with some of the finest chefs from Boston to Portland. After bonding over their love of food, Spenny and Matheus’ labors of love have yielded delectable results for family and friends.
Now, the dynamic duo is opening their hearts and kitchen to anyone with excellent taste. Their exploratory palates, emphasis on ingredients, and dedication to the culinary arts have culminated in an endeavor to fulfill and thrill.