Macon bakery and restaurant known for its Brazilian-inspired snacks shuts down

Despite a loyal customer base, fresh Brazilian-inspired food prepared daily and lively videos by the chef, Mr. Pingo’s House abruptly closed its doors for good.

“So sorry to share the bad news but we are closing Mr. Pingo’s House down permanently,” the owners posted Saturday on Facebook. “This was a very difficult decision to make but we feel it is best for our physical and mental well being.

“Best wishes to all of our regulars who supported us along the way with laughter and love and simply giving us a chance to be a part of their lives. This was an amazing experience but the time has come to end it. Thank you to everyone!!!”

Jessica and Leandro Lacerda opened their bakery and restaurant that’s based on a traditional Brazilian snack food at 3001 Vineville Ave. on Jan. 4. Jessica managed the restaurant and Leandro served as chef.

Pingos, the namesake food for the restaurant, are meat and cheese blends wrapped in a savory dough, breaded and fried. They’re based on coxinha, a popular food in Brazil of chopped or shredded chicken meat, wrapped in dough and molded to look like a tear drop and then deep fried.

Reaction from customers

Customers posted reactions to the closing on the restaurant’s Facebook page.

“Your restaurant will be missed,” Jay Cannon posted. “Such originality. Everything was so delicious.”

Thomas Rosano also posted that the food was “delicious.”

“Each time I came in you were both so personable,” Rosano wrote. “Very sorry this didn’t work out for you. I wish you nothing but success in the future.”

Kathleen Charland Woodall noted in her comments, “I think it was the location. It was a bit too far to drive from our house. I really enjoyed the food and loved the videos.”

Others recommended the Lacerdas open a food truck or try a mall location.

“We are so sad,” Valerie Johns wrote. “If you ever … take over a food truck anywhere local, please post on FB so we can make sure to visit!!!! (Hint Hint…giving you an idea!)”

The Lacerdas could not be reached for comment.