HUMBERTO LEON'S CHIFA OFFERS A TASTE OF THE PERUVIAN-CHINESE CUISINE
THIS PLACE IS PERFECT FOR: Getting a delicious taste of the Peruvian-Chinese cuisine. Design enthusiasts will also appreciate the stylish interiors of the eatery.
WHAT YOU SHOULD ORDER: Chifa is not only an aesthetic and visual treat, but also a culinary delight. It’s clear that Chifa understands the (gastronomical) assignment, as the restaurant was chosen by Conde Nast Travel as one of the best new restaurants in the world in 2021. The restaurant’s recipes are infused with natural and organic ingredients, without sacrificing authenticity and taste. Its menu, featuring comforting Peruvian-Chinese dishes, is modernized with a hint of American flavor.
The business is truly a family affair, with Humberto as the creative director and unofficial beverage director, and his sister Ricardina as the CEO. Ricardina’s husband, chef John Liu, is in charge of the kitchen, with recipe contributions from other family members. The Black Sesame Cheesecake Tart ($7 USD), for example, is Wendy’s grandson’s recipe, while the YoYo Good4u drink ($9 USD) can be credited to Humberto.
“We’re serving our heart. If it’s not the best, we don’t put it out,” said Wendy, who’s affectionately called “Popo” by her children. Some of her personal favorite dishes include the Si Yao Chicken ($29 USD), Brûlée Char Siu ($17 USD), Lomo Saltado ($31 USD) and the Braised Spare Ribs ($21 USD).
We sampled a smorgasbord of items that included the Pollo Ala Brasa ($25 USD), a roasted chicken that’s dipped into a dry brine for 24 hours to achieve maximum flavor, served with crispy golden French fries and a spicy Peruvian aji sauce. Meanwhile, the Braised Spare Ribs, one of Wendy’s recommendations, were caramelized in soy sauce with golden sugar. Both dishes were incredibly tasty.
Chifa
4374 Eagle Rock Blvd,
Los Angeles, CA 90041
TRAVELIST
