Next Big Thing: Peruvian
Wednesday, August 6th, 2008
Recently, Todd English (celeb chef and owner of about 1 metric bazillion restaurants) called Peruvian cuisine “the next big thing.” Bon Appetit’s new food blog quickly weighed in, declaring it a trend that needs an ambassador, and pointing to Peruvian celeb chef Gaston Acurio as — possibly — the face that could launch a thousand tiraditos.
I hate to say I told you so, but Sarasota chef Darwin Santa Maria of oft-lauded Selva Grill made the same prediction about Peruvian food almost a year ago. Sarasota is home to no less than four decent Peruvian joints. Only question is: what about the Bay area? Know any great places to grab some ceviche, causa and sauces laced with glorious aji pepper?
(Thanks to Grub Street.)

I can sleep tonight, though, for piercingly blue-eyed head judge Tom Colicchio and Co. anointed Stephanie the Top Chef. Still, I felt finalist Richard’s pain and admit that Lisa, after squeezing by time-after-mediocre-time, redeemed herself nicely, cooking-wise. (And welcome back, 

I’ve avoided the inevitable 






