Tucson’s culinary community is ever expanding, and its newest addition is Don Pedro’s Peruvian Bistro. Situated in south Tucson,10 minutes from the center of campus, Don Pedro’s is serving up authentic style Peruvian fare à la Lima. They offer a wide variety of specialties including entrees and beverages straight out of Peru. While their prices are a touch high, the food is well put together. Sometimes a new and interesting experience is worth a little extra cash.

Owned and operated locally, Don Pedro’s is a new adddition to help keep the city of Tucson’s economic blood flowing. The menu is unique and interesting and their staff friendly and knowledgeable about the food. Beef, chicken and seafood options are all available. Many dishes start with a base — fried rice or pasta perhaps — and are then topped with your choice of meat.

These dishes are based heavily around starches. Take for example the chaufa ($8), Peruvian fried rice, this dish is a salty and savory mix of rice, fried egg, veggies, an interesting seasoning and chicken. The seco de carne con frijolies ($11) is almost a Peruvian take on pot roast, served with potatoes and beans. This is a flavorful dish with a unique flavor profile. And you absolutely cannot go wrong with the arroz con pollo ($10). This dish features a cilantro rice that is killer. Each dish is served with a trio of salsas that range from mild to spicy. These salsas are a far cry from the Sonoran style Mexican salsa you’re used to. They’re a rich blend of seasonings, chilies and are smoothly blended.  

Don Pedro’s is offering Tucson a look into the cuisine of Peru, and they’re doing it well. They offer an array of interesting dishes with the culinary knowledge to back it up. If south Tucson isn’t your regular haunt, it’s worth the quick trip to give this Peruvian bistro a try. Impress your Spanish teacher by getting a taste of this authentic cuisine  first hand and wow ’em with your knowledge of the many dishes Peru has to offer. Appetizing ingredients, fresh food and knowledgeable staff make Don Pedro’s a must try.