Recent trends are putting rotisserie-style chicken in the spotlight at downtown T.O. restaurants. But let’s not forget that we’re home to some of the best authentic churrasco chicken in North America, thanks to our Portuguese immigrant population.

The top churrasqueira around is Costa Verde. The family-run operation has been drenching grilled birds in hot sauce for nearly 30 years. Although they have two locations, the Oakwood spot is the standout. The restaurant is divided into two areas: a takeout counter with daily lineups and a small sit-down space for those that want to dive into their chicken pronto.

Here’s what to eat at this Portuguese mainstay. Keep in mind that the chicken and sides run out daily, so call ahead to order before you head over.

Chicken and sides
You can enjoy Costa Verde’s rotisserie chicken a few different ways.

If you want to savour the juicy pieces of meat, ask to have it sauceless with a side or two. This way you appreciate the nuances of the marinade and smoky flavours from the grill. CV’s sides stand out from the rest of the Portuguese pack in the city, with their potatoes and rice reigning supreme.

Hot Chicken
Toronto doesn’t have authentic Nashville-style hot chicken, the kind where the bird is marinated, fried and then sauced with a special hot paste. However, you can get a pretty good replica.

Order your rotisserie or grilled chicken with extra hot sauce. When you get the takeout container, grip it firmly and give it a few shakes. Although it isn’t deep fried like its southern counterpart, the flavours of spice and pepper on the crispy skin are a worthy substitute. 

The grilled chicken wins with this technique because the char adds more smoky flavour. Buy a whole chicken and save some for lunch the next day. It will taste even better.

Dessert
Be sure to save room for the desserts at CV as the pastéis de nata — a.k.a. Portuguese egg tarts —are some of the best in the area. A highlight is the Portuguese flan. The caramel custard is extra eggy with a good amount of burnt caramel adding both sweetness and bitterness. It’s available in thick slices, or if you’re feeling indulgent, you can order a whole pan of the stuff.

Costa Verde BBQ Chicken, 370 Oakwood Ave., 416-658-9577