🚕 Don Ceviche: A Taste of Peru in NYC

Good morning, NY!

Looking for an authentic journey to Peru without leaving New York City?

Well, Don Ceviche offers a rich dining experience that showcases the depth and richness of Peruvian cuisine.

With locations in the East Village and Essex Market, this family-owned restaurant delivers dishes crafted from over 90% Peruvian-sourced ingredients, ensuring every bite stays true to tradition.

So, whether you’re new to Peruvian flavors or a longtime fan, Don Ceviche is an unmissable destination.

Signature Dishes

The menu at Don Ceviche boasts classic Peruvian dishes that highlight the country’s diverse and flavorful culinary heritage.

The standout is their mixed ceviche, a refreshing combination of fresh grouper, shrimp, calamari, octopus, sweet potato, Peruvian corn, cancha (toasted corn), lettuce, onion, and their signature leche de tigre (tiger’s milk).

The citrusy zest of lime, paired with the warmth of rocoto chili and the umami depth of Chicano fish broth, creates a layered and unforgettable dish.

Another crowd-pleaser is the pollo a la brasa, a three-pound rotisserie chicken marinated in beer and Peruvian spices.

The slow-cooking process results in perfectly seasoned, tender meat with a golden, crispy exterior.

Diners can enjoy the chicken as part of combos like the Combo Lima, which pairs the chicken with French fries and avocado salad.

For a bold and traditional experience, try the anticuchos, skewers of beef heart seasoned and grilled to perfection.

The smoky char adds a decadent complexity, and the skewers are a staple of Peruvian street food.

Additionally, the lomo saltado, a stir-fried sirloin dish with onions, tomatoes, French fries, and rice, is another must-try.

Its smoky sear and vibrant flavors are classic representations of Peruvian comfort food.

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The Story Behind the Food: Lenin Costas’ Vision

The heart of Don Ceviche lies in the inspiring journey of its founder, Lenin Costas.

Drawing inspiration from his grandmother, who sold food in the streets of Lima, Lenin built his culinary dream from the ground up.

After starting as a dishwasher and working his way through the restaurant industry, Lenin launched Don Ceviche in 2017, taking a leap of faith by maxing out credit cards and taking on debt to fund the venture.

Today, Lenin’s son Brandon works alongside him, continuing the family legacy and strengthening the bond between father and son.

Two Unique Locations, One Delicious Experience

Don Ceviche operates out of two convenient locations, each offering its own charm.

• East Village: Nestled at 57 1st Ave, this location provides a cozy, inviting atmosphere ideal for an intimate dining experience. Open seven days a week, it’s perfect for a casual weekday dinner or a lively weekend outing. Reservations can be made via Resy.

• Essex Market: Situated at 88 Essex St, this location brings Peruvian street food to life in a bustling market setting. Known for its lively energy, Essex Market is a great spot for quick bites or grabbing a meal to enjoy at home.

Vegetarian-Friendly Options and More

While Don Ceviche is celebrated for its seafood and rotisserie chicken, vegetarians will find delicious options as well.

The Saltado de Champiñones, a meat-free twist on the traditional lomo saltado, features mushrooms stir-fried with onions, tomatoes, and crispy fries.

The Veggie Chaufa, a Peruvian-Chinese fried rice dish with scrambled eggs, scallions, and bean sprouts, also delivers bold flavors for plant-based diners.

Final Thoughts

Don Ceviche isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a celebration of Peruvian culture, flavors, and family.

From the fresh, citrusy zing of their ceviche to the smoky depth of their lomo saltado, every dish tells a story of hard work and heritage.

Whether you visit the cozy East Village spot or the vibrant Essex Market location, you’ll be treated to an authentic and unforgettable culinary journey.

With its commitment to tradition and its welcoming spirit, Don Ceviche is more than a meal—it’s a destination.