Best Peruvian so far...

So, yes,....it has been said that a new Peruvian place opens in Hartford every other year. But you know what? I have not been impressed by any of them, until now. On a rainy day recently, a friend and I decided that we were in the mood to try a new place called La Kerencya on Franklin Ave in Hartford. Little Italy as the neighborhood is still known, is now becoming a much more diverse neighborhood and is home to ever expanding ethnic cuisine. I hope that this restaurant is here to stay for awhile.

Usually there are three components that I judge a place on; service, food and atmosphere. I have to say that I was pleased across the board. After we emerged from the rain into the bright orange dining room, we were greeted by a friendly server bringing us bread and roasted corn with aji sauce (green, spicy and yummy). There was a stage to in the center of the room that is host to Latin jazz nights, and I was sorry to find out we were dining on an off night. The front of the restaurant is home to an inviting bar, and offers pisco sours (which is on my "must try" list). Then our food emerged.

I had ordered the Perchuga a la Parilla which was grilled and served with rice, fries and salad. The flavors were spot on, and it was delicious. I only wish that I had saved some of my aji sauce to add to my rice. A sauce would have just added that extra touch, not that it needed it.  The chicken was well seasoned and tender. I have never understood Peruvian's interest in adding fries to so many of their dishes, someday I am going to have somebody explain that one to me.

My friend ordered the Picante de Mariscos and said that it was perfect. She ate the majority of it, only to discover a fish filet underneath all the other seafood! That needed to be wrapped up for lunch. Obviously, there are HUGE PORTIONS at this place! The servers were very friendly and helpful with food selection choices. The menu is quite accessible and there are many tempting dishes waiting to be ordered. After a few disappointing flavorless meals at other Peruvian places, I am personally psyched by the arrival of La Kerencya and hope that it is here to stay. Check it out and let me know what you think!

Menu can be viewed here: http://www.lakerencya.com/files/Full_Menu.pdf