Joining the list of new restaurants slated to open in Vancouver is Suyo – a modern take on traditional comida Peruana and other cultural fusion dishes. The good news? The Peruvian resto has finally announced its official opening day after months of anticipation: Thursday, August 25th.
The concept is the first of its kind in Canada and will come together in the spot formerly occupied by Slickity Jim’s on Main Street. Launched by a team of industry greats, Suyo will specialize in classic dishes from Peru with a contemporary twist.
The concept:
Chef and Partner Ricardo Valverde drew inspiration from his own childhood when creating the menu. When his family immigrated to Canada in 1998, he asked his father what was expected of them. His father’s answer: “Let’s build patria,” the Spanish word for ‘homeland.’
These words inspired the meaning behind Suyo’s name, which comes from the South American Indigenous word for ‘homeland’–to honour Chef Valverde’s family and heritage. The opening of the restaurant marks the realization of his family’s dream.
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“We’re excited to introduce Vancouver diners to our versions of the most popular dishes in Peru: from ceviches and tiraditos to causas and anticuchos,” said Chef Valverde. “It will be a unique culinary experience that you won’t find anywhere else.”
The team
General manager and Partner James Reynolds (La Buca, Blue Water Cafe, La Regalade) is joined by award-winning bartender Max Curzon-Price (Botanist, Clarendon Cocktail Cellar UK), and tech entrepreneur Felix NG as Director of Operations.
“Together, these four have cultivated a menu and ambience that makes for a first-of-its-kind experience in Canada,” says a recent media release.
The food
Photo via Suyo
Peruvian cuisine is typically filled with bold spices and textures, and the food served at Suyo is no exception. The menu will have a strong focus on seafood and dishes inspired by those of the ancient Incas, like Pachamanca, a potato and meat-based dish cooked underground on hot stones.
Whether you go with the former or opt for Arroz con pato, all of the food will be made using fresh ingredients and Indigenous techniques.
Given the many global influences in Peruvian cuisine, the menu will also feature Chinese-Peruvian (Chifa), Japanese-Peruvian (Nikkei), as well as Italian and Spanish-inspired dishes. Folks can expect fusion plates like Yucas Fritas (yuca root fries) and the meat-free Cauliflower Steak served with quinoa tabbouleh. You can view the full menu here.
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The drinks
Photo via Suyo
Reynolds and Curzon-Price have built a beverage program to align with Suyo’s innovative cuisine. With wines from Peru, Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay, you’ll no doubt have plenty of options to pair your meal with.
The cocktail list will include delicious beverages using all eight varieties of Pisco, as well as the classic pisco sour (which if you don’t already know originates from Peru, now you do.)
The space
Photo via Suyo
Finally, let’s get talk ambience. Suyo will include a newly constructed 49-seat dining room and golden bar, as well as a private 20-seat ‘Nazca Room’ featuring stunning artwork inspired by Pre-Incan Nazca Lines (geoglyphs etched into desert sands.)
Designed by Evoke International, the interior boasts an elegant South American feel with tropical greenery, natural wood, and banquette seating. Perfect for date night, happy hour, and everything in between!
Peep their Instagram for updates and visit their website to book your reservations. We’ll see you there, folks!
Suyo Modern Peruvian Restaurant & Bar
When: Thursday, August 25th
Where: 3475 Main Street
