Saying ‘Hola’ To Peruvian Food

Lomo Saltado ($20, or $12.99 as a lunch special)

While our islands are filled with restaurants with cuisines from around the world, some areas of the world are a bit under-represented. Peruvian food, for one, is pretty hard to come by.

Enter Mimi’s Place, the cozy Waterfront Plaza eatery that serves up traditional Peruvian eats. The restaurant incorporates elements that are popular throughout the country — the meats and spices that make up daily meals, the fish that dominates cuisine along the coast, and fresh vegetables.

“People say that it is like eating a little bit of Peru here,” says manager Katya Vera Rivasplata.

For a taste of authentic Peruvian cuisine, try Papa La Huancaina ($11), a customary dish comprised of fresh cheese, milk and Peruvian chili served over boiled potatoes. “People all over the world love this dish,” Rivasplata says.

She points out that Mimi’s also is a good place to throw a party. It can accommodate about 80 people. Or you also have the option of bringing the taste of Peru to your own party, as the restaurant also offers catering.

A BEST-SELLER

One must-try dish is Lomo Saltado ($20, or $12.99 as a lunch special), which is popular on the coast of Peru. It’s a beef sauté with red onions and tomatoes. “It’s so juicy that we put some fries on the bottom, and rice,” says manager Katya Vera Rivasplata, adding that it also can be made with chicken, seafood or veggies.

Mimi’s Place

Waterfront Plaza
500 Ala Moana Blvd., No. 1-E, Honolulu
358-1475
Monday–Friday, lunch: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Tuesday– Saturday, dinner: 5-9 p.m.