China Chilcano, located at 418 7th Street NW in Washington, D.C., is a bold and dynamic restaurant that celebrates the fusion of Peruvian, Chinese, and Japanese culinary traditions. Under the vision of Chef José Andrés, the menu explores the intersection of these influences, reflecting Peru’s rich multicultural heritage through a mix of vibrant flavors, inventive techniques, and fresh ingredients. The restaurant’s atmosphere is as lively as its cuisine, with a bright and colorful design that pays homage to the energy of Peru’s bustling food markets. Playful yet refined, the space is designed to immerse guests in an experience that blends tradition with modernity, much like the food itself. The menu is a showcase of the unique cultural crossroads that define Peruvian cuisine. Chifa, the Chinese-Peruvian tradition, appears in flavorful stir-fried dishes, dumplings, and crispy pork belly buns, while the Nikkei influence brings Japanese elements into beautifully crafted ceviches and tiraditos. Criollo flavors, rooted in native Peruvian cooking, round out the experience with dishes like lomo saltado and hearty stews infused with Andean spices. Signature dishes include causas, where vibrant potato layers are topped with fresh seafood, and aeropuertos, a wok-fried rice dish that embodies the fusion of Peruvian and Cantonese flavors. The cocktail program leans heavily into Peru’s national spirit, with variations of the classic Pisco Sour served alongside bold and refreshing concoctions that enhance the dining experience. China Chilcano offers a journey through Peru’s diverse food culture, blending unexpected flavors and techniques with a sense of fun and creativity. Whether enjoying a plate of delicate ceviche, savoring a rich and smoky lomo saltado, or sipping on a perfectly balanced pisco cocktail, guests can expect a meal that is both adventurous and deeply rooted in tradition.
