Dine LA: Amazonian Fish Ribs and other Peruvian delicacies

Dine LA Week basically gives 20 something year olds an excuse to try out trendy, fancy-schmancy restaurants. Unless it's a special occasion, most of us normal folk do not splurge on meals that cost as much as a filled tank of gas. Fortunately, restaurants participating in Dine LA offer a full course meal at a flat rate. Lunch ranges from $15-25, while dinner sets are generally $45.

I had the chance to try out a "Peruvian Izakaya" (Izakaya = tapas style dining) called Paichẽ located in Marina Del Rey. Peruvian food incorporates Asian culinary styles so don't be surprised to find fusion plates on the menu along with other unique gourmet discoveries. The Dine LA dinner menu included two options of appetizers, two options of the main course, and a choice of dessert.

And now, a photo map to guide you through what you can find on Paichẽ's menu:

Albacore Ceviche
(Aji Amarillo Leche De Tigre, Rocoto Garlic Sauce, Garlic Chips)
THIS WAS MY FAVORITE, THE SAUCE IS DELICIOUS!

Ensalada Rusa
(Seared Albacore, assorted steamed veggies, Aji Amarillo Yuzu Dressing, Quail Egg)
I WOULD SKIP ORDERING THIS...

Seabass Tiradito
(Seared seabass, Amazonian Sacha Inchi Oil,
Soy Dressing, Garlic, Oba)

Yuquitas
(Stuffed Yuca Beignets, Manchego Cheese, Grated Parmesan)
THE GREEN SAUCE MAKES EVERYTHING TASTE EVEN BETTER!

Uni Shrimp Toast
(Sea urchin, shrimp paste toast, rocoto honey sauce)
The most expensive piece of toast you'll ever have!

Short Ribs
(Prime Short Rib, BBQ Sauce, Huancaina)
Huancaina = Peruvian salad of boiled yellow potatoes

Chaufa De Langosta
(Lobster, Mixed Seafood, Fried Rice)

Finally, of course, you should always save the best for last...*drum roll* ....

Pacu Ribs
(Amazonian Fish Ribs)

The Pacu is a cousin of the piranha that can be found in South American freshwater. Paiche's Pacu Ribs are drenched in Anticucho Lime Miso with Zapallo Puree on the side. Digging into this dish was pretty interesting because you're dealing with the typical fish bones yet there's the rib bone to dodge as well. Overall, the Pacu ribs were truly impressive and definitely the stand out dish at Paiche.

Just when I thought my food adventure was over, dessert was served! The Chicha Raspadilla incorporates shaved ice with flavors reminiscent of cranberry/pomegranate and a strong clove essence. The mandarin orange sorbet scoop on top really gives the extra kick to the dessert.

    

   
I guess the lesson learned here is that when the next Dine LA rolls around, definitely keep an eye out for Paiche! If Peruvian food interests you and you're on a tighter budget, I'll be posting another blog soon about another delicious restaurant :)

--C.H.


Follow @PaicheLA and mention you heard about them from @fooodisgoood
www.PaicheLA.com