Melbourne, known for its diverse culinary scene, is about to experience a new flavor sensation with the introduction of chifa cuisine. Chifa is a fusion of Chinese and Peruvian flavors that originated over a hundred years ago when Chinese migrants adapted their traditional dishes to the ingredients available in Peru.
While chifa cuisine is not entirely new to Melbourne, with La Chinesca serving chifa snacks a decade ago, Casa Chino in Brunswick aims to bring this unique culinary experience to a wider audience. Managed by Jared Thibault and Vincent Lombino, Casa Chino draws inspiration from Chino-Latino restaurants in the US and the late Peruvian chef, Fiorella Aguila.
At the heart of Casa Chino’s menu is chifa classics, such as lomo saltado, a stir-fried beef dish cooked with Peruvian chili, ginger, soy sauce, and coriander. Served with fries and rice, it represents the perfect marriage of Chinese and Peruvian flavors. Chef Kevin Galdo, also of Peruvian descent, brings his expertise to create a diverse menu, which includes ceviche and Cantonese favorites like siu mai.
In addition to the food, Casa Chino also places a strong emphasis on cocktails. The bar offers a variety of beverages with pisco, a Peruvian grape brandy. Tiki drinks, such as Zombies and Scorpions, receive a Peruvian twist, and even the classic negroni is given a splash of pisco. For those looking for something unique, there are five different pisco sours, including the vibrant violet Purple Rain.
The restaurant itself is a visual treat, combining Cuban-inspired patterned tiles with tropical greenery and colorful window shutters reminiscent of Chinatown. The open kitchen allows diners to witness the culinary magic as it happens, further enhancing the dining experience.
Casa Chino is set to open its doors on April 11th, offering Melburnians a chance to indulge in the delightful fusion of Chinese and Peruvian cuisine. With its unique flavors, diverse menu, and vibrant atmosphere, Casa Chino promises to be a culinary destination that will excite and satisfy Melbourne’s food enthusiasts.
An FAQ section based on the main topics and information presented in the article:
1. What is chifa cuisine?
Chifa cuisine is a fusion of Chinese and Peruvian flavors that originated when Chinese migrants adapted their traditional dishes to the ingredients available in Peru.
2. Is chifa cuisine new to Melbourne?
No, chifa cuisine is not entirely new to Melbourne. La Chinesca, a restaurant serving chifa snacks, has been in business for a decade.
3. What is Casa Chino?
Casa Chino is a new restaurant in Brunswick, Melbourne that aims to bring the unique culinary experience of chifa cuisine to a wider audience. It draws inspiration from Chino-Latino restaurants in the US and the late Peruvian chef, Fiorella Aguila.
4. What are some of the dishes on Casa Chino’s menu?
The menu at Casa Chino includes chifa classics such as lomo saltado, a stir-fried beef dish cooked with Peruvian chili, ginger, soy sauce, and coriander. It also offers ceviche and Cantonese favorites like siu mai.
5. What kind of cocktails does Casa Chino offer?
Casa Chino places a strong emphasis on cocktails and offers a variety of beverages with pisco, a Peruvian grape brandy. They offer pisco cocktails with a Peruvian twist, as well as classic cocktails like the negroni with a splash of pisco.
6. What is the ambiance of Casa Chino like?
Casa Chino has a visually appealing ambiance with Cuban-inspired patterned tiles, tropical greenery, and colorful window shutters reminiscent of Chinatown. The open kitchen allows diners to see the culinary magic as it happens.
7. When will Casa Chino open?
Casa Chino is set to open its doors on April 11th, giving Melburnians the opportunity to indulge in the fusion of Chinese and Peruvian cuisine.
Definitions:
– Chifa: A fusion of Chinese and Peruvian flavors.
– Lomo saltado: A stir-fried beef dish cooked with Peruvian chili, ginger, soy sauce, and coriander.
– Pisco: A Peruvian grape brandy used in cocktails.
Suggested related links:
– Casa Chino official website: Visit the official website of Casa Chino to learn more about their menu and offerings.
– Chinatown Melbourne: Explore Melbourne’s vibrant Chinatown, which inspired the colorful window shutters at Casa Chino.