Succulent chunks of citrus-drenched white fish “ceviche.” Creamy potato surrounding a hidden pocket of beef (“papa rellena”). Flaky phyllo dough nestling layers of caramel cream and dusted with powdered sugar. Sugary sweet bubble gum Inka Kola.
These are the delightful treats that await you at the Sacramento Peruvian Food Festival, taking place right now until 6:00 P.M. at 711 T Street. It costs $3 to get in (kids are free). Once inside, you’ll purchase tickets to exchange for food. Most entrees cost between $8 and $10, desserts range from $2 to $5, and drinks start at $2.
If you’re familiar with the potato and meat-based dishes of Peru, you’ll find your traditional favorites. If you’ve never experienced the region’s cuisine, be adventurous. You really can’t go wrong. Even vegetarians can find a simple dish called “Tacu-Tacu,” a tortilla made with beans, rice, onions, garlic, and hot peppers. And if you need it, they’ll provide you with a menu describing most of the dishes being served.
Do come prepared to use your Spanish. The cooks serving up these tasty treats will be speaking their native language. However, don’t ask what their favorite dish is. I tried, and was met with the same answer again and again: Todo! (Everything!) Although, I will say that I came to exactly the same conclusion.
The Sac Rag 
Dang, I missed this. The last time I ate Peruvian cuisine however, I was offered deep fried “cuy.” I had no idea what it was, but thought it was delicious—until I learned that “cuy” was Peruvian Spanish for guinea pig. (Peruvians think guinea pigs say “cuy cuy!” when they’re squeaking.) But I think it was shortly after this when I gave up meat. It seemed hypocritical to dine conscience-free on Bossy and Wilbur but get all teary-eyed thinking about my childhood pet guinea pigs after my Peruvian dinner.
Welcome back, btw!
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Thanks! Glad to be back.
Yes, the little cuy. I believe they had some on the menu yesterday. Can’t say that I’ve ever tasted it, but I do love the many Peruvian potatoes!
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Sac has some decent cultural events but sadly there is little advertising for any of it (SN&R does not count!).
I would have loved to be at this but I hadn’t heard of it 😦
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