¡Que Rico! My Visit To Pollos y Jarras

April 2, 2015

Peru. Land of the Incas and home to the llamas. The country is known for an array of things, from Machu Picchu to the Nazca Lines. Somehow, someone failed to mention how DELICIOUS the food was! (Either that, or I’ve been living under a rock.) From ají de gallina to lomo saltado, these dishes never fail to deliver robust flavor and ultimate satisfaction. Aside from the immeasurable love I have for my brother-in-law, my sister did well in choosing a mate whose family could bring so much joy to my belly.

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Miami’s Pollos y Jarras.  The restaurant is located on NE 3rd Avenue. It resides conveniently near Bayfront Park; this way, you can stuff your face, then walk it off right after.

My sister, her husband, and I were greeted at the door. We were prompted to enter an elevator that lifted us into the dining room area. A simple layout with a modern twist, the overall atmosphere of Pollos y Jarras keeps its occupants at ease. Window seats overlook the passersby from down below and multi-hued Mason jars decorate the shelves (hence the name).

Upon being seated, we received the “Soup of the Day,” along with an assortment of dipping sauces. Looking for something sweet? Tangy? Spicy? Well, there it was, right at your disposal.

I ordered the Pollo Saltado for my entree. As a woman of Caribbean descent, I cannot stomach foods that lack flavor. I can assure you that if you carry that same mindset, you will not be disappointed. The chicken was stir-fried to perfection, dressed with onions, tomatoes, peppers, and parsley. It covered a layer of french fries, all floating atop a sea of a soy sauce-based gravy. The meal is served with a side of white rice–fluffy, moist, and perfectly mounded.

My sister ordered Lomo Saltado, a dish similar to that mentioned above. The main difference between the two is that sirloin steak is substituted for chicken. Her husband stuck with the Rotisserie Chicken, presented with a side of crisp, golden fries and salad.

Like most of our restaurant visits, we ended our meal with a little somethin’ to satisfy our sweet tooths. Pollos y Jarras offers an array of postres, or desserts. We ordered the Dulce Rocio, a spongy soufflé cake built upon layers of peaches, dulce de leche, and whipped cream (featured above). It is embellished with thinly sliced almonds, the word “Perú” swirled at the forefront of the plate. If you decide on this one, trust me: you’re in for a treat!

Now, anyone who knows me would agree that I am a picky eater. The pickiest of eaters, actually. I wouldn’t commend a dish or restaurant unless I felt praise was deserved. That being said, I was thoroughly satisfied with my visit to Pollos y Jarras. We all were. The service was great and the food, delectable.

As of now, I may have to dictate that this is the best Peruvian restaurant I’ve encountered thus far. If you’re looking for a new place to try that provides good Latin American cuisine–and if you happen to be living in or visiting the Miami area–this is it. My taste buds have been begging me to go back ever since.

I can say that my tummy and I look forward to the next visit. ¡Viva Perú!

Check out their website for a full menu.

© Scappiamo, 2015