Steve K.
Yelp
My wife (who is Peruvian) and I have been in the hunt for an authentic Peruvian restaurant ever since we got married earlier this year. We've tried the three other Peruvian restaurants around the Seattle area, and after eating at El Rey tonight, we have finally found the real deal. My wife approves!
We ordered the Papa A La Ocopa appetizer to start with, which was boiled potatoes in a green sauce with a hint of dill. My wife said they tasted very authentic. We also ordered Chicha Morada (a traditional Peruvian drink made with purple corn juice) and Refresco de Maracuya Special (Drink made with papaya juice), and both were very fresh and delicious. Every other Peruvian restaurant we tried made Chicha Morada with a mix, but my wife said it is obviously made fresh here.
I ordered the Monstrito Special, which was a quarter chicken, fried rice, and french fries. The chicken was nicely seasoned, and very tender. The fried rice was my favorite part of the whole meal. It had a spice in it that I couldn't put my finger on, but it was so good that I couldn't stop shoveling it in my mouth once I tasted it. The fries were nicely salted, and ketchup was available for my American palate, although I understand from my wife that they are meant to be mixed and eaten with everything on the plate (with a fork) in traditional Peruvian dining.
My wife had the Mondonguito Italiano, which was tripe cooked with carrot, french fries, rice, and beans, and she said it was authentic, just like home in Peru. She gave me a bite, and I wasn't a fan, but only because I'm not a fan of the texture of tripe.
Next time, I'm going to try either the Chaufa de Pollo (Peruvian Fried Rice in a Chinese style), Lomo Saltado (Steak with french fries, onions, tomatoes), or Aeropuerto (a variation on the fried rice with noodles).
The service was excellent and attentive. The chef came out to the table to welcome us and ask if we had any questions. It's obviously a family affair, and you can tell they take pride in what they do.
Do yourself a favor and support a small business that is making delicious food.