Ian S.
Yelp
Great Food, Service is Okay
We arrived at Chan Chan around 8:45p for what we thought would be an early dinner (considering how late they eat in BA). When we entered the restaurant, even though they only opened up at 8p, they were completely packed. Given how small the restaurant is (maybe 15 tables/40-or-so seats), we had to wait outside for about 30 minutes until another table opened up. This was a positive sign that Chan Chan had to be good.
Well they definitely delivered on that: Food quality was fresh, the menu was diverse, and the prices were quite reasonable. There wasn't much ambiance or atmosphere to Chan Chan with their mismatched tables and chairs, but that's not what their customers came for. They came for the good food and the social environment. We ordered ceviche for a starter and a bottle of Malbec. My wife got a Peruvian rice and fish dish while I had braised lamb. Both were really good, and prepared with fresh ingredients and large portions. With the first bite, it became immediately obvious why Chan Chan was so popular.
The only flaw I could find with the restaurant was that service was somewhat inattentive, and I am saying that from a Latin American perspective. Otherwise, make sure to get to Chan Chan early to avoid a wait.