The Chicago Traveler

Leave a Good Taste of Peru in Your Mouth

by Matt B on July 31st, 2008

As I've learned from La Gondola, you can't judge a restaurant merely by its appearance. The same goes for Taste of Peru, located in a strip mall on the far north side. What was once Chicago's 'best kept secret' is now packed every weekend with hungry regulars, all anticipating the authentic flavors this family establishment has to offer.

Featured in my International Chicago series, the small space is spattered with Peruvian posters and photos, and it's obvious how much owner Cesar Izquierdo loves his home country. More impressively though, he shares that love through the menu. Seafood lovers will appreciate the generous portions of ceviche offered as appetizers, served with onions, corn, and sweet potato. Popular dishes include the pariuhuela (a huge, mixed seafood soup) and the aji de gallina (shredded chicken in a walnut cream sauce). Others swear by the tallarines verde (pasta with a spinach and basil sauce) or the lomo saltado (rib eye sauteed with tomatoes and onions). The fact is, everything on the menu is superb, so you can't go wrong.

Taste of Peru also offers tasty (virgin) pisco sours and Inca Cola, but feel free to take advantage of their BYOB policy and cheap corkage fee.

This hidden gem is no longer a secret; it is now a shining treasure on Clark Street. The quantity and quality are a big hit, so be sure to call ahead for a reservation.

Photo credit: (c/o Flickr) Taekwonweirdo

Taste of Peru ($): 6545 N Clark St; 773-381-4540
Sun ' Thurs: 11:30 a.m. ' 10:00 p.m.
Fri ' Sat: 11:30 a.m. ' 11:00 p.m.
Free parking lot
Public trans: Bus # 22, 155
http://www.tasteofperu.com/

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POSTED IN: Restaurants