Aji 10 — Restaurant in Norwalk

Okay, folks, how many superlatives can I get away with before you start thinking I’ve married into the family?

Before I forget, though: Coconut Mojito!!! Just sayin’.

Thank you, dear Sebastian, for whatever it was you said to Chef David that caused him to come outside, sit at my table, discover my complete gastronomic Peruvian ignorance, decide the best remedy for that sad state was a special combo, then proceed to exceed my fondest wishes for a leisurely, beautiful, memorably tasty, tasty late, late lunch. Sebastian carefully explained every new thing he brought to me and went back to ask when he needed more information. Did I mention how welcoming everyone was, and Chef David’s lovely sense of humor?

One could hardly ask for a more charming outdoor spot than Landmark Square where I found parking a few steps away from the front door. My only regret is not taking more photos of Chef David’s skills since I always appreciate when others do it, but I guarantee the quality and diversity of taste plus texture plus enticing appearance would satisfy any frequent curmudgeon like myself, from the creamy sweet-potato-chicken-salad sandwich (I KNOW!) to a ceviche of firm, individually identifiable chunks (not some soupy seafood mishmash, thank you, Chef) with no need for extra lime because the seasoning was simply perfect already.

Then there was the grilled octopus (I’m still on the appetizers, y’know) with glossy green spinach hiding a timid boiled potato, surrounded by glistening meat and veggie juices excellently suited to being mopped up by mashing that very boiled potato with the back of one’s fork (now we know why it was hiding). If only there had been a teensy bit more of that sweet balsamic sauce - but then again, like all true artists, Chef David knows how to leave ‘em wantin’ more.

Unfortunately for me, after all the above I only had room for desert (be SURE to get a scoop of vanilla with your flan; you can thank me later) and an oddly beautiful, very different but delicious coffee, so the review of the main course (now resting quietly in my ‘fridge) must at minimum await tomorrow’s lunch. (Hm…wonder how I can get a bottle of that yummy Chilean wine…)

Anyway, right now I need a...

When my friend recommended this spot I had my reservations. For starters what’s a Norwalk, I joke I joke. Nonetheless this establishment sits a busy strip with other local bars and restaurants. Upon our arrival the establishment was relatively empty with 2-3 guest. My concerns worsen. We were immediately sat down by a guy that sort of resembles Ricky Martin. He was cool and knowledgeable about the dishes on the menu. We ordered drinks and the main course. I got the lomo saltado, a Peruvian dish staple.

The first bite, I was in love and all the flavors of the onions, fries, meat and tomatoes with the savory green sauce. Coñooo yum!

Our waiter was incredibly patient with us as we sat and consumed our drinks passed 10PM.

Highly recommend this establishment to anyone who is in town and wants to enjoy a good Peruvian dish. I did see sushi on the menu which was quite interesting.

Thank you to our waiter whose name I did not catch! To the owner, promote him and give...

The food was good but it is a bit expensive for what they offer, I ordered some anticuchos and yes the flavor was good but the meat was very undercooked, when my steak arrived it was overcooked ( I asked for medium well) I didn't want to say anything because the flavor was good and I really didn't want to pay attention to it. what bothered me was the way the waitresses treated us, in fact before the bill arrived I made a comment to my husband that I thought the waitresses were going to stereotype us because of our social race and that is exactly what happened. when the bill arrived at the table I realized that they had added 18% of gratitude (I hope you don't misunderstand me) we always leave tip that is not the problem, the problem was that they added it to us being only three people, the tip is added if a table is more than six people. They made me, my husband and our guest feel bad. I hope you do well in your restaurant but we will...