Peruvian cuisine is the most varied and sophisticated  of any country in South America, and in recent years has gained the reputation as one of the truly amazing cuisines of the world.  The richness and diversity of Peruvian cuisine is influenced from the indigenous population including Inca, and cuisines brought from immigrants from Europe (Spain, Italy, Germany) and Asia (China and Japan.)  Here in New York the best place to try the cuisine of Peru is Urubamba located in Jackson Heights. The restaurant named after a town in the sacred "Valley of Incas" serves about a wide variety of delicious food with local flavor making it one of my favorite restaurants (for any type of cuisine) in New York.

Ceviche Mixto a classic dish from the coastal region of Peru made from raw fish cured in lime or lemon juices. The fish consists of bass, calamari, octopus and shrimp. Onions, sweet potato and corn are also part of the mix. The dish is said to be over 2,000 years old and brought to Peru by a Moorish women from Granada with Spanish colonizers.

Lomo Saltado a very much beloved dish in Peru. Strips of marinated sirloin in vinegar with soy sauce, with onions, tomatoes and other spices. Served with with and french fries. Yes, the combination of rice and fries sounds odd, but this dish works. It is delicious and filling.

The staff at Urubamba is gracious and enthusiastic. Most are native of Peru.

Urubamba is an attractive restaurant with a warm atmosphere and colorful decor.  Please note the restaurant does not take reservations and on the weekends can get crowded, (especially popular with Peruvian families) but the wait is rarely over twenty minutes.

Sudado de Mariscos con Pescado (steamed seafood broth with onions, tomatoes, scallops, shrimp, talopi) served in a large iron pot. I am crazy about this dish!

Chicken tamale served with onion.

Colorful Peruvian art graces the walls at Urubamba.

More examples of the art at the restaurant.

Peru indigenous language of Quechua lesson - "Hello" (Imakullaki)  "Thank you"  (Solpaki)  "Delicious"  (Sumacmi)

Interesting fact - Peru has the largest number of "Shamas" in the world, second only to India.

Address - 86-20 37th Avenue  Jackson Heights (Queens)  (718) 672 - 2224