WHY Peru’s Chinese influence is evident in the wonderful fried-rice dishes; also try the fried calamari and classic pescado saltado with french fries, and wash it down with an Inca Kola.

WHAT This rival to Mario’s goes a little easier on the chiles but turns out Peruvian food that’s still powerfully flavorful. It’s a pleasant little café that doesn’t get as crowded as Mario’s, although the parking’s no better. Delicious food, low prices.