It’s hard to think about food from Latin America and not mention Peruvian cuisine, which has been influenced by Incan, Spanish, Chinese, European, Indian and Japanese cultures. The nation has been recognized as one of the world’s best culinary destinations, largely thanks to its diversity. The flavor and the variety of the dishes make people come back for more whether they are at Machu Picchu or in Miami. Here are the five best Peruvian dishes that will delight your palate right here in South Florida.
Traditional Ceviche at CVI.CHE 105. (Sheylla Richardson/SFMN)
Ceviche
CVI.CHE 105
Various locations
Ceviche, the combination of fresh fish, seafood, and lime juice is Peru’s national dish. At CVI.CHE 105, which boasts four locations in downtown, on South Beach, and in Dadeland and Aventura malls. The mouthwatering dish can be ordered with shrimp, octopus or mixed. There are various versions with pepper cream and savory sauces. You can also mix in crunchy corn, and aji. And one of their most popular dishes is tetra de ceviches. It consists of four fish ceviches that progress from non-spicy to spiciest. The price is $42.95.
Lomo Saltado
Rinconcito Peruano
4644 Palm Ave.
Hialeah, FL 33012
(305) 364-4869 or (305) 364-4877
Lomo Saltado is a chopped steak dish traditionally served with white rice and potatoes. Along with the beef, it includes Peruvian native vegetables such as fresh tomatoes, peppers and potatoes. It also includes other ingredients influenced by the Chinese due to their history of relations with Peru like onions, garlic, vinegar and soy sauce.
At this Hialeah favorite, the juicy steak and French fries are drizzled with a brown sauce that is savory yet has hints of tanginess similar to that of soy sauce. It is topped with traditional vegetables. The Rinconcito Peruano’s lomo saltado is $11.99 and is accompanied by the homey atmosphere of the family-owned restaurant that has been a Peruvian staple in Hialeah since 2009. The restaurant opens at 11 a.m. six days a week. It closes at 9 p.m. every day except Friday and Saturday. It is closed Mondays.
Ají de Gallina
La Jato Restaurant
3970 West 16th Ave.
Hialeah, FL 33012
(305) 821-6100
Ají de gallina is a spicy creamed chicken dish served with white rice and savory potatoes underneath. The dish gets its yellow coloring from the ají amarillo or Peruvian yellow pepper.
Like many other Peruvian dishes, ají de gallina is inspired by European and Asian influences that are part of Peruvian culture.
La Jato’s dish is great for those who want a hint of spice in their meals, though it is only mild. The chicken is coated with the peppered cream giving it that extra kick. La Jato’s ají de gallina costs $12.99. The restaurant has a sleek industrial design and a welcoming atmosphere with an order window for those looking for a quick meal to go. La Jato also offers the option for take-out and delivery via Uber Eats.
Tacu Tacu
Aromas del Peru
5757 SW 8th St.
West Miami, FL 33144
786-347-0506
Aromas del Peru has been offering its customers a traditional menu since 2003. Marita Astete launched her own restaurant in Miami after working in other places. She combined her front-of-the-house experience with a passion for Peruvian cuisine. As a result, customers get the chance to taste some of the best Peruvian dishes. One of them is tacu tacu, which consists of a delicious, crispy blend of Peruvian canario beans and white rice, served like a tortilla. Something that makes this tacu tacu from Aromas del Peru stand out is its various combinations. Customers can combine the dish with churrasco, lomo saltado or chicken breast. For $21, guests can come to Aromas del Peru and enjoy this delicious dish.
Pollo a la brasa
El Pollo Inka
7285 NW 36th St.
Miami, FL 33166
305-599-8585
El pollo a la brasa is a very popular dish offered in almost every restaurant in Peru. Pollo Inka has been able to bring this delicious dish to Miami. The famous Peruvian-style rotisserie chicken is marinated with natural herbs, juices, spices and slowly roasted over a flame. For only $24.08, customers can savor this dish with two sides including French fries, salad, rice or pinto beans.
