Carmelitas Peruvian — Restaurant in Los Angeles

Carmelitas Peruvian @ Taquería Juanito’s – Van Nuys, CA 📍 16851 Victory Blvd, Ste. 2 Tucked inside a decades-old taquería, Carmelitas Peruvian is more than a pop-up — it’s a culinary love letter from Lima to Los Angeles. Chef Omar Zavala and his wife Carmen have transformed this corner of Van Nuys into a vibrant hub of Peruvian street food, served with heart, hustle, and a side of rocoto heat. Must-Try Dishes Pollo Broaster A golden slab of fried chicken that crackles with cumin and black pepper, laid over thick-cut fries and a crisp salad. Pair it with their house-made rocoto sauce if you dare — it’s fiery, bold, and unforgettable. Ceviche de Pescado Carmen’s pride and joy. Silky swai or cod swims in a citrusy leche de tigre, crowned with choclo, sweet potato, and a single slice of red rocoto. It’s balanced, cooling, and deeply satisfying. Ají de Gallina & Lomo Saltado Comfort food done right. Creamy, tender, and packed with flavor, these dishes show off the kitchen’s dedication to scratch-made sauces and soulful execution. Ambiance & Vibe Expect a soundtrack of Latin rock and ska, taco-themed blacklight posters, and a cozy, L-shaped diner that feels like a time capsule of Valley culture. It’s intimate, unpretentious, and buzzing with locals who know good food when they taste it. Carmelitas isn’t just serving food — it’s building community. Whether you’re a ceviche connoisseur or just craving something new, this spot delivers authenticity with every bite. And if you’re lucky, Carmen might be behind the register, ready to share the story...

Este sitio esta escondido adentro de una taquería. Entré buscando un desayuno peruano y salí más que feliz. Me pedí un pan con tamal y una fresa con leche, y todo junto sabia tan rico me imaginaba que andaba por el callao. Pedí un lomo saltado para llevar, y apenas llegué a casa le di una probadita...no me duró ni un minuto porque mi familia me lo quitó al toque de lo rico que estaba. De todas maneras, lo recomiendo a ojos cerrados, si quieres comer de verdad...

I tried the peruvian food, and while it wasn't bad, it didn't have the authentic Peruvian flavor that im used to. Service was...