Inka Mama's — Restaurant in Lake Forest

Bistec Apanado is pounded top sirloin steak covered in garlic, lightly breaded, pan-fried, and served with salad and rice. It’s the Peruvian version of the country-fried steak or steak Milanese. The steak was tender, juicy and infused with just the right amount of aromatic garlic flavor. The light bread coating gave it a beautiful caramel brown finish and absorbed some of the steak juices as a bonus. The rice was fluffy and a hefty portion at that. The salad was fresh and crisp. Their vinaigrette is reminiscent of a red wine vinegar and oil mix, tangy but not overwhelming. Thumbs up, way up!

Cabrito Norteno is lamb stewed with minced onions, cilantro, Inka wine, and served with rice, white beans and sarza criolla. The tender lamb was cooked to perfection. The rice was a perfect side, a delicious way to get every last drop of the precious sauce. Add some of the sarza criolla (Peruvian salsa) to the white beans to kick it up a notch! This is a perfectly executed dish from beginning to end – almost licked the plate clean. Thumbs up, way up!

Jalea is lightly floured fresh fish, shrimp, and calamari deep-fried, topped with sarza criolla, and served with yucca and potatoes. They are not kidding when they say, “Share a Meal!” on this entrée. It is HUGE! Every piece of seafood is fried to perfection – fish was tender and juicy, shrimp was crisp and sweet, and calamari was tender. No rubbery seafood here! The sarza criolla enhances every bit of seafood and gives it a little citrus zing. I’m not a big “citrus on seafood” person, but this did not overpower the delicate flavors of this dish. You’ll love the fried corn kernel topping! It’s like a cross between popcorn and a corn nut. I was able to eat a third of this dish and had plenty of leftovers for the next day....

We arrived at 12:30 PM, and there were still plenty of open tables—which made me briefly wonder if this branch lacked popularity. But as a first-timer trying Peruvian food, I was hopeful for a great experience. The server brought complimentary bread—fluffy and warm—paired with a spicy green sauce. The owner (Mama herself!) explained it’s a house-made sauce blending cilantro, chili, onion, garlic, and cheese (plus other ingredients I couldn’t catch, haha). No water added, just pure flavor—perfect for dipping! The menu had many unfamiliar ingredients, so we trusted Mama’s recommendations and ordered two House Specialties: Arroz con Mariscos (Seafood Fried Rice) – $28.75 A Peruvian-style seafood paella, similar to Spanish paella but with unique spices. The rice was rich and flavorful, topped with a refreshing onion salad (mild, not spicy). Generous portions of mussels, shrimp, squid, and cod, plus green peas and carrots. The seasoning included aji amarillo (yellow chili paste), which added a subtle fruity sweetness—not spicy at all. We even spotted a familiar bay leaf! Cabrito Norteño (Braised Goat) – $28.95 I’m usually allergic to goat, but my partner couldn’t resist ordering it. The dish arrived with a whole goat leg—tender, fall-off-the-bone meat braised with onions, cilantro, garlic, and Peruvian red wine. Served with beans, rice, and more onion salad. My partner devoured it (even gnawing on the bone—no fancy cutlery needed in a family meal!). A hearty dish, but worth it. Kids’ Meal: Beef Rice Bowl – $11 A sizable portion of grilled beef over rice—zero veggies (no surprise, kids worldwide hate greens!). Our little...

A Delightful Peruvian Experience

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Inka Mama's, and I can confidently say that it was one of the best culinary experiences I've had! This family-owned Peruvian restaurant truly shines in both its food and service, making every visit feel special.

I’ve been to both the foothill location and the one near South Coast Plaza, and each time, I was greeted with warm smiles and a welcoming atmosphere. The staff members are genuinely friendly and attentive, making sure that every need is met without being intrusive. It’s evident that they take pride in their restaurant and care deeply about their customers.

Now, let's talk about the food! Each dish is a vibrant celebration of Peruvian flavors. From the moment I took my first bite of their ceviche, I was hooked. The freshness of the fish, combined with the zesty marinade, was absolutely divine. I also highly recommend their lomo saltado—it's cooked to perfection, with tender beef and a wonderful blend of spices that left me craving more. And don’t even get me started on the empanadas; they are simply heavenly!

The ambiance is cozy and inviting, perfect for a family meal or a special night out. It’s clear that this restaurant is a labor of love for the family that owns it, and their passion for Peruvian cuisine truly shines through in every aspect.

I send many blessings to the wonderful family behind Inka Mama's. Their dedication to quality food and exceptional service is truly commendable. If you’re looking for an authentic and delightful Peruvian dining experience, look no further than Inka Mama's. I can’t wait to return for another...