It’s an old burger restaurant in Lima’s historic center, called El Chinito. Chinese immigrant Félix
Yong opened this traditional restaurant in 1960 and that still works today. After walking along
Oscar R. Benavides Avenue and crossing Plaza 2 de Mayo heading east, we will see on the right
side a large number of people whispering while waiting to be served. There is usually a line if you
arrive before midday, but it moves fast.
The smell of the roast makes you want to buy something, so you sit down at one of the tables. The
signature sandwich is the pork rind made of a French baguette filled with fried pork that’s both
crunchy and juicy, topped and decorated with sweet potato, yellow pepper sauce, and pickled
purple onions. Obviously, all this is accompanied by a fresh purple corn soda.
The walls are covered in bright Asian paintings, making the people feel in China. Windows open on
to a stunning view of the streets of Lima. The waiters wear long brown aprons. Currently, due to
the pandemic there is only delivery.