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| - After a failed attempt to use a Groupon at Pho Van on Friday night (they were closed for renovations for a few days), we were hungry and lugging around some bottles of beer. We needed dinner, and it needed to be BYOB. And preferably delicious. So we came all the way back home to Squirrel Hill, parked in front of our own apartment, and walked half a block to the new BYOB Peruvian joint - Aji Picante.
The tables on the patio were all full with happy, chatty people enjoying bottles of wine. We went inside and were impressed by the minimalist but sleek decor. Several very friendly servers agreed that it would only be a short wait for an outside table, so they seated us at an indoor table and brought over water and menus. We placed our order, and waited about 10 minutes for an outside table, at which point we were graciously transplanted to the prime people-watching location on Murray Ave.
First to arrive was our appetizer of corn fritters (Torrejas de Choclo). They were crispy, hot, and flavorful - served with wonderful sauces like guacamole, creamy mint sauce, and hot pepper sauce. It was a great size too - four fritters - so we both got plenty of food.
Then we waited for our entrees. And waited. And waited. We really don't mind waiting, especially when our server was so cheery and apologetic, but it was like....maybe 30 minutes between courses. Our server actually offered us complementary glasses of red wine to make the time more bearable. They don't SELL wine, so don't ask for it, but it was a nice way to make up for the slow kitchen. Not sure if the kitchen just got backed up with large parties - they were pretty busy - or if they are just working the new-restaurant kinks out.
But, when the food did come out, it was worth the wait. My boyfriend's Seco de Cerdo (crispy pork shank) was HUGE - "caveman" size, if you will. The meat was juicy and flavorful, and I loved the crispy coating. I enjoyed the Chupe (Peruvian fish stew) which was brimming with shellfish - and a poached egg! - floating in a savory, rich broth. The portions were large; it's true, the prices are between $17-25 or so for an entree, but you really will get full here. And the food was clearly fresh and well-prepared. Somebody in the kitchen absolutely knows what they're doing! If only they could do it faster...
We are thrilled to have this place in our neighborhood, and we will certainly be back. Go on a leisurely night, bring a bottle of wine, bask in the friendly service, and order with confidence. Welcome to Squirrel Hill!
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