🇧🇷 Chinese & Peruvian food | Canton
🍜 Cantón: When Chinese and Peruvian Flavors Play It Safe Tucked in São Paulo’s vibrant food scene, Cantón bills itself as a fusion of Chinese and Peruvian cuisines—but don’t expect fireworks. 🌟 This spot serves up sweet-forward dishes that won’t offend, though purists might crave more authenticity from either culinary camp. 🌶️ The Fusion That Feels... Familiar Sweet & Sour Everything: Think Peruvian-style chaufa (fried rice) doused in sticky-sweet sauce, or kung pao chicken with more sugar than spice. 🍚 The flavors lean heavily into the "American Chinese" stereotype, minus the boldness of traditional chifa (Peruvian-Chinese food). Safe Staples: Lomo Saltado Stir-Fry: Tender beef with bell peppers and onions, but swimming in a syrupy soy glaze—missing the tangy vinegar kick that makes this Peruvian classic pop. 🥩 Ceviche Adobo: A noble attempt to blend Chinese marinade with Peruvian raw fish, but the result is muddled—citrus doesn’t cut through the heavy sauce. 🍣 Portion Sizes: Generous, at least! You won’t leave hungry, though you might leave wondering "was that supposed to be sweet?" 📍 Why Purists Might Pass Fusion Without Edge: True chifa thrives on bold contrasts (think spicy, sour, savory), but Cantón softens every edge. It’s like fusion lite—great for picky eaters, boring for adventurers. Peruvian Palate Missing: Craving authentic ceviche or anticuchos? Head to a dedicated Peruvian joint instead. Here, Peruvian flavors feel like an afterthought. 💸 Is It Worth a Visit? Yes, if… You’re new to fusion food, want kid-friendly options, or just need a filling meal without surprises. Prices are reasonable (mains ~R$50), and the service is friendly. No, if… You’re a chifa aficionado or crave bold flavors. There are better spots in SP that honor both cuisines’ traditions. Cantón isn’t bad, just... unmemorable. If you’re curious, go in with low expectations and a sweet tooth—just don’t expect it to replace your favorite Chinese or Peruvian haunt. 🥢 #FusionCuisine #SaoPauloEats #ChinesePeruvian #FoodieOpinions #BrazilianDining