Peruvian restaurant Machu Picchu is located on Indy’s west side amongst many other culturally diverse eateries. This visit marked my first but definitely not my last. Quaint, clean and friendly, Machu Picchu was a very pleasant surprise. If you are like me, sometimes you crave something that is a little different from our everyday, American flavor profile. Looking for something different, I decided on Peruvian.
The meal starts with an unassuming bread basket and what I can only describe – perhaps inaccurately – as a mayo-based crème sauce flavored with cilantro and something spicy. Nonetheless, it was delicious. Perusing the menu made for difficult decisions. Many items looked delicious. I usually look for items that come with sauces that I’ve never heard of and plates to be shared. This strategy did not disappoint.
Parihuela de Mariscos (favoritre dish of the night)
My first dish, and star of the Peruvian show, was a seafood and tomato bouillabaisse soup (parihuela de mariscos). A single order was split between two bowls; both of which were incredibly generous and flavorful portions. Each bite yielded a new ingredient: fish, shrimp, mussels and squid all played beautifully together. The cilantro garnish was absolutely perfect. I will definitely go back for this dish.
Entrees ordered included aji de gallina, a chicken stew dish, and pescado y camaon meuniere, a fish and shrimp dish with meuniere sauce. Both dishes were very tasty, and I recommend them. Meuniere, a brown butter, chopped parsley and lemon sauce, was light and paired perfectly with the seafood. Be sure to get out and support this local, diverse establishment. I cannot wait to see Indy’s culinary scene continue to grow and incorporate even more tastes from around the world.
What other ethnic restaurants in Indy should I try? Tweet me at @natalieclayton1 or leave a comment below. Thanks for your suggestions!
