Los Andes — Restaurant in Providence

Los Andes is one of Providence's best dining experiences. Here you'll find deliriously happy, well-fed customers dining on Bolivian and Peruvian cuisine, eating dishes such as ceviche, seafood paella, massive spice-marinated ribeye steaks, and Andean regional street food.

Los Andes' appetizers are first-rate, and I recommend ordering several. Upon being poked with utensils, Salteñas and Empanadas explode with meaty juices and garlicky, piquant flavor. Although Salteñas and Empanadas are similar pastries, I'm partial to the former due to its sweeter, corn-based crust.

The "Ceviche Martini" contains barramundi, squid, shrimp, mussels in an acetic mix of citrus juices, chilies, cilantro, onion, and garlic. Since it is served in a martini glass, you can sip the juices after plucking the last delicious bit of seafood from the cup or, better yet, request a shot of pisco or vodka to spike the 'leche de tigre' with. That said, the ceviche dish to order here is the sweet and spicy "Passionfruit Salmon Ceviche," a smart ceviche mixture of two components that complement each other better than one would expect. Unfortunately, it is not on the regular menu and is a daily special subject to availability.

"Anticuchos de Corazón" is a classic "meat on a stick" street food from Peru featuring beef heart marinated in delectable spices, then threaded onto skewers and grilled. Some could consider "beef heart" exotic, but no need to fuss about it -- it is a lean meat that works perfectly with these spices, has a pleasing but bold beef flavor, and bears a mouthfeel of a smoother and slightly chewier (though not 'tough') tenderloin. Both the texture and flavor of this dish makes this one of the best bites of food you'll have in Providence, or anywhere for that matter. Like me, you should a) dine at this restaurant frequently, and b) ALWAYS order the beef heart as one of your starters.

Be warned that nearly all the massive entrées that leave Chef Cesin Curi's kitchen will not be finished by a normal-sized person in a single sitting, so expect you'll be taking some food home with you. You would expect to pay a fair amount for the level of quality and sheer quantity of grub on each plate at Los Andes, but nearly every dish is less than $20, and only the "Langosta Paella" ($45) is offered at a high-end price, owing to the inclusion of a flawlessly-baked 1 1/2-pound Maine lobster which sits on top of what seems like an endless amount of rice, chorizo, shrimp, squid, and clams in a buttery white wine broth. Another seafood favorite of mine is the "Pachamanca Del Mar," which is the Peruvian equivalent to a New England Clam Bake, featured a tender Spanish octopus, mussels, swordfish, and shrimp served with marble potatoes while sizzling on a Peruvian hot stone, the whole of it covered in a pachamanquera sauce punched up with chilies and aromatic herbs.

Turf dishes are also exquisite here, from the silky "Lechón Al Horno" Bolivian roasted pork shoulder to the "Churrasco al Gaucho," an affordable one-pound beef ribeye rubbed with spices and expertly grilled to pick up a smoky crust, served with fried yuca and rice.

The restaurant, which looks deceptively homely on the outside, features a modern woody dining room that is a bit too dark for my liking, but made up for by a beautiful and spacious outdoor patio with a separate bar and fish pond in the back. This is the area to reserve a table in, weather permitting. And, yes, you definitely want to make a reservation - this place is busy regardless of day or time.

You won't be disappointed at Los Andes. Even though I grew up in the Providence area, I currently live in California and travel extensively. Los Andes has nonetheless become one of my favorite places to enjoy a meal in the U.S., and it will be one...

You don't really need my review; this must-see hotspot has been ranked nationally as a top place to dine.

But let me share some highlights, as it's an absolute must for me to drop by here when I pass through the area.

Los Andes is a culinary gem that delivers an unforgettable dining experience from start to finish. From the moment you step inside, the vibrant ambience captivates with its cozy yet lively atmosphere, perfect for both intimate dinners and celebratory gatherings.

The menu at Los Andes is a celebration of flavors from South America, and each dish is a masterpiece in its own right. Start your culinary journey with their irresistible empanadas, bursting with savory fillings and perfectly crisp pastry. The ceviche is a fresh delight, showcasing the seafood’s pristine flavors complemented by zesty citrus notes.

For mains, the Lomo Saltado is a standout, marrying tender strips of beef with vibrant vegetables and the richness of soy sauce in a harmony of flavors that dance on your palate. The Pollo a la Brasa is another must-try, featuring succulent roasted chicken served with golden yucca fries that are irresistibly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

The service at Los Andes is exemplary, with attentive staff who are not only knowledgeable about the menu but also passionate about ensuring every guest has a memorable experience. Whether you’re seeking recommendations or simply need another drink, they’re there with a smile and genuine hospitality.

To top off your dining adventure, indulge in their decadent desserts like the Tres Leches cake, a heavenly confection that melts in your mouth with each bite.

Los Andes in Providence is more than just a restaurant; it’s a culinary journey through South America’s rich tapestry of flavors, served with warmth and impeccable hospitality. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular patron, each visit promises a gastronomic adventure that leaves you eager to return!

ABSOLUTELY A FIVE STAR EXPERIENCE ALL THE WAY!

What a fantastic...

One of the most enjoyable dining experiences I have had in a while. We arrived a little early for our 630pm reservation on a busy Saturday night and were given an option inside or outside. We chose to sit outside near the waterfall and it was such a great choice. The bread was good but definitely the low of the night as one roll was rock hard. I enjoyed the pink sangria and it was delicious while my friend had an amazing margarita!

The food- we started off with empanada Pollo, empanada de arroz and cunape. Everything was so delicious but the empanada de arroz was INCREDIBLE. I ended up ordering one to take home! So good. For the main dish, I ordered the salmon but with modifications. I asked for no espresso rub and white rice. I can say this was one of the best meals I have had in a while. The salmon was cooked perfectly as was the rice & asparagus. The star of the show was the housemade hot sauce they bring to the table. I poured the entire ramekin of hot sauce on my salmon and it was OUT OF THIS WORLD! I cannot wait to go back and have this meal again. My friend enjoyed the paella and she loved it! She had at least 1-2 meals worth of food for her leftovers! We were too full for dessert, unfortunately.

Lastly, the service. WOW just wow. The server was incredibly friendly, knowledgeable and considerate. He always checked in on us and returned in a timely manner. The runners & bus people were incredible. The way the servers and service staff worked as an organized team and helped each other was wonderful. As a previous restaurant manager, I was thrilled to see this team work and it made my heart so happy.

Bravo, Los Andes! I will be back...