Hamlin’s Upcoming Hotspot Combines Wine, Spirits, and Cigar Culture
December 22, 2024
Lake Mary and Apopka join Central Florida’s Peruvian food boom
Central Florida’s culinary landscape continues to diversify as Peruvian cuisine gains momentum. Two new restaurants are set to open in the region, offering distinct dining experiences that showcase Peru’s rich culinary heritage. From fast-casual fare to upscale dishes with a modern twist, these establishments highlight the growing demand for unique international flavors in the area.
La Brasa Grill Brings Fast-Casual Peruvian Favorites to Apopka
Miami-based La Brasa Grill is expanding its footprint in Central Florida with a new location in Apopka. Known for its signature rotisserie chicken and Peruvian staples, the fast-casual chain will open in a 2,926-square-foot former NYPD Pizza building at 1960 E. Semoran Blvd. Renovations are planned to modernize the space, which will include a drive-thru.
This marks La Brasa Grill’s second location in the region, with the first located in Sanford. The new restaurant is strategically positioned less than two miles from the Apopka City Center, an area of rapid development. La Brasa Grill currently operates 15 locations across South Florida and is poised to attract Apopka’s growing population, which is increasingly seeking diverse dining options.
Pisco Peruvian Gastrobar Debuts in Lake Mary with a Modern Flair
For those looking for an elevated dining experience, Pisco Peruvian Gastrobar is set to open in Lake Mary this November. This concept, part of the Don Julio Restaurant Group, combines traditional Peruvian flavors with modern influences, including Japanese-inspired dishes. Located in the Lake Mary Village Shopping Mall at 3801 W. Lake Mary Blvd., the restaurant will span 3,000 square feet and feature a large patio. Designed by Marianne Poltar of MLP Design LLC and built by Shrey Patel of Outline Construction, the space will seat 185 guests, both indoors and outdoors.
Pisco’s menu will emphasize fresh, light offerings, with a focus on ceviche and locally sourced ingredients. Dishes range from appetizers priced at $12 to entrées starting at $18, with an average check of $30 to $40 per person. A full bar will complement the dining experience, including cocktails crafted with the restaurant owner’s tequila brands. The menu mirrors that of Pisco’s Lake Nona location, which has garnered a loyal following.
A Rising Demand for Peruvian Cuisine in Central Florida
The opening of these restaurants reflects a broader trend of increased interest in Peruvian cuisine across Central Florida. Florencio Rodriguez, founder of Pisco Peruvian Gastrobar, noted that customers have been traveling from areas like Heathrow to visit their Lake Nona location.
“Seminole County has become a hub for Hispanic families, which provides a strong customer base for us,” said Julio Rocha, a regular patron of Pisco. Similarly, Apopka’s population boom, driven by high-end housing developments, has fueled demand for more diverse dining options beyond fast food.
With the arrival of La Brasa Grill and Pisco Peruvian Gastrobar, Central Florida residents and visitors alike will have more opportunities to explore and enjoy the vibrant flavors of Peru.
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