The subject of geography has always appealed to me. My family immigrated to New York’s melting pot from another melting pot in the Caribbean, so a basic understanding of the subject is necessary just to keep track of my family tree. As a foodie, my palate has also encouraged my interest. A delicious meal with origins in an obscure corner of the world usually sends me in search of a good atlas.
The delectably diverse cuisine of Peru has sent me searching for that atlas on more than one occasion. The unique blend of people, culture, climate and extreme biodiversity yields a wonderful array of native dishes. A few visits to the two Brooklyn locations of Coco Roco was an excellent way to explore Peruvian cuisine.
Both locations have a South American decor that is warm and welcoming; however, the Fifth Avenue location feels a little more tired. I sampled the empanadas de cangrejo (crab meat pastries), aguadito de pollo (cilantro chicken soup) and paella coco roco. Each dish was well prepared and tasty. However, it was the ceviche mixterio al rocoto and jalea which completely capture d my attention. The flavors danced across my taste buds to the rhythm of a Peruvian flute band. The lime marinade in the cerviche enhanced the flavor of the snapper and crab meat without overpowering. The jalea is a deceptively simple fried seafood dish which yields complex flavor.
Although the menu is more extensive, the service at the Fifth Avenue location was disappointing. I waited a very long time to receive my order despite the fact that the restaurant was only moderately busy. Fortunately, there were no such problems at the Smith Street location. I found the waitstaff there to be efficiently helpful, yet unobtrusive. The menu is moderately priced and the freely flowing sangria and mojitos make Coco Roco a great place for girl’s night out.
Coco Roco I 392 Fifth Avenue, Brooklyn NY, 718-965-3376
Coco Roco II 139 Smith Street, Brooklyn NY 718-254-9933
I have microlent to:
| Location: | Peru, Puno, Puno |
| Activity: | Food Production/Sales |
| Location: | Palestine, Bethlehem, West Bank |
| Activity: | Food Stall |
| Location: | Paraguay, Encarnación |
| Activity: | Grocery Store |
Wow. I want flavours to dance across my tongue like that too! Do you think the flavours will do a tour to Australia?
LOL…I am sure that they will take a turn down under as well! Happy New Year!
Thanks for sharing! I’ve never heard of this place before and always love to try out new joints! Do you think they serve veggie options? I know South American food isn’t the most veggie-friendly!
There are a number of salads and creative vegetable dishes, so you would have quite a few options.
This is going on my list of places to try when I vist my sister in Brooklyn in March! Thanks Bromo!
There’s a Peruvian restaurant in my old hometown of Mpls that I go to when I’m visiting….
As to geography – a sadly neglected area, I’m afraid… When we lived in Andorra, hardly anyone in the US knew where it was… At lease they know where France is – well, most of them hehehe!