18:24 | San Francisco, Oct. 14.
By Reynaldo MallqueConsul General of Peru in San Francisco Hernando Torres-Fernandez said Peruvian cuisine is really appreciated in his jurisdiction, which is reflected in a number of guests at restaurants serving this type of food.
The diplomat noted that there are at least 46 Peruvian eateries in the Bay Area, which promote Peru through traditional dishes, its national drink
pisco, and more.
"There is a very positive image of Peru in this sense because among the restaurants of Hispanic flavors, Peruvian ones rank second in number, after Mexico," he told
Andina news agency during an interview at the
Consulate General of Peru's offices in San Francisco.
The most popular Peruvian restaurant chains here include Limón, Fresca, La Costanera, Puerto 27, as well as a number of eateries of different kinds that suit all tastes, including
La Mar, a seafood restaurant owned by acclaimed Peruvian chef Gaston Acurio.
"La Mar is attended by people from all over the world. In fact, Peruvians might account for 5-10% of all diners. This is one of the most successful restaurants of Peru in the world, and receives some 7,000 diners a day," he revealed.
When asked about the impact of Peruvian gastronomy in this community, Torres-Fernandez affirmed that the culinary boom, which started 20 years ago, has influenced very positively in the self-esteem of his fellow Peruvians.
"Gastronomy has made Peruvians very proud and increases their self-esteem. In addition, the image we give of ourselves is extraordinary," the consul stated.
Moreover, he said the culinary topic is even present at the time of the conversation in diplomatic meetings, where he starts out on the right foot —he remarks— because everyone identifies him with this globally acclaimed cuisine.
"That's what we call gastronomic diplomacy, which is a good thing and reflects a country's cultural power," he commented.
(END) RMB/RMB
Published: 10/14/2019