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Header image courtesy of Chullshick
Just when you think you’ve tried all the cuisines you possibly can in Hong Kong, there are more under-the-radar flavours to look for. While there is no shortage of Latin American restaurants in the city, Peruvian food is a hidden gem that only a handful of places specialise in. We’ll admit it—the few that are available in the city tend to be a mix of Japanese and Peruvian (also called Nikkei) but they still offer an authentic experience. Read on for the best places to try Peruvian food in Hong Kong and treat your palate to new flavours!
Chullshick is one of the longest-established Peruvian restaurants in the city and has recently opened its second location in Wan Chai. Founded by Abel Ortiz, Chullshick is the first-of-its-kind Peruvian chicken rotisserie concept in town. Combining Peruvian and French produce with cooking techniques passed down through generations, you know you’re in good hands.
You might think its concept simple, but the Peruvian relationship with rotisserie chicken can be traced back to over six decades ago and this tradition is alive and well in Chullshick. Besides the tremendous pollo a la bras, you can enjoy your chicken with a selection of entrées, like the signature ceviche clasico and rocoto chilli chicken wings with honey and crispy garlic.
Tokyolima serves Nikkei cuisine in the setting of a bustling izakaya, and its Peruvian influences can’t be denied. Nikkei food marries Peruvian ingredients with Japanese techniques and cooking styles; in fact, Nikkei cuisine dates back over 100 years, originating from Peru’s large Japanese population. Essentially a match made in heaven, these dishes blend Japan’s fresh seafood culture with the sizzling heat of Peruvian dishes.
Be sure to try the lobster acevichada with chilli butter and tuna and watermelon “tartare” as well as the Secreto of Tokyolima, a savoury Ibérico pork dish. When it comes to the drinks, the cocktails also infuse South American and Japanese ingredients. Browse through the hand-selected sake menu boasting over 20 varieties!
Tokyolima, G/F, Car Po Commercial Building, 18–20 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central
Ichu marks chef Virgilio Martinez’s debut in Hong Kong and presents his native South American cuisine with a touch of Japanese influence. Its name, Ichu, is derived from a plant found in the Peruvian Andes that only grows in extreme conditions and is meant to reflect the chef’s deep knowledge of ingredients in indigenous areas. It’s no surprise that the interiors also draw inspiration from Peru’s landscape, colours, and textures, like the hanging wooden installations and forest-themed wall artworks.
Despite its location in H Queen’s, the vibe is casual, made even better by its menu of sharing plates. Mostly, you can find seafood options, but there’s also a selection of meats and even vegetarian dishes. You can never go wrong with the pez limon ceviche or the carapulcra—Ibérico pork shoulder. If you can’t decide what to get, for the no-fuss lunch or dinner set, which has starters, a main course, side dishes, and dessert.
Ichu, 3/F, H Queen’s, 80 Queen’s Road Central, Central | (+852) 2477 7717
If you’re looking for an unassuming place serving up Peruvian food, head over to Oyster Season. Tucked away in Yuen Long, this oyster bar has been in business for over a decade, and true to its name, the oysters are the stars here. You can choose from more than six kinds and pair them with different wines. From the “Today’s Catch” portion of the menu, diners can delight in the fresh bounty of the day, ranging from sea urchins, scallops, sea whelk, and more. Other than the seafood, take a bite of the Japanese-Peruvian (Nikkei) dishes like Peru beef heart skewer or 36-month-aged Ibérico ham.
Oyster Season, Shop 67, G/F, Yee Fung Garden, 38 Ma Tin Road, Yuen Long
Jianne is introverted by nature but adventurous by heart. This Hong Kong-born-and-raised Filipino, who also spent time in Japan, prides herself on being a fangirl. On days when she’s not writing or travelling, you can find her visiting art exhibitions, looking for the best new places to eat in town, or simply trying to learn another language.
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