EDITOR’S NOTE:
Estampas Peruanas joins the family of sponsors of El Reportero, and we are pleased to welcome them to this space where we celebrate gastronomic and cultural diversity. As a media outlet committed to our community, we value the support of local businesses that, like Estampas Peruanas, contribute to the enrichment of our information offering and the strengthening of community ties. Their incorporation allows us to continue providing quality content to our readers, reaffirming our commitment to editorial independence and the promotion of businesses that reflect the richness of our traditions.
by Marvin Ramírez
Estampas Peruanas is a restaurant in the city of Redwood City that has captivated the local community with its rich Peruvian cuisine. On Camino Real, among the vibrant streets of Redwood City, this restaurant has become a culinary landmark, offering a unique experience that transports diners to the heart of Perú.
Founded and operated by Carlos Shimabukuro, Estampas Peruanas is a place where families and couples gather to enjoy traditional dishes, prepared with ingredients brought directly from Perú. Carlos, who is the owner and creator of the menu, is dedicated to ensuring that every detail of the restaurant reflects his passion for Peruvian cuisine. His dedication to authenticity is what sets Estampas Peruanas apart from other Peruvian restaurants in the region.
“Since 1993, we have brought the best of Peruvian cuisine to California. We were motivated by the desire to share the culinary richness of our Perú and offer traditional dishes,” says Carlos about his first steps in the industry. The restaurant has been operating in the same location in Redwood City for more than 30 years, where it has earned recognition for its authentic food and welcoming atmosphere.
The choice of location was not fortuitous. “We chose El Camino Real because we wanted an accessible place that would allow us to attract both local residents and visitors interested in international cuisine,” explains Carlos. In addition, Redwood City has shown a growing interest in Peruvian cuisine, which has allowed Estampas Peruanas to become a little piece of Perú within this diverse community.
One of the characteristics that makes Estampas Peruanas special is the use of authentic ingredients brought directly from Perú. “We work with specialized suppliers that allow us to import key ingredients such as yellow chili, quinoa, and maca,” says Carlos. These ingredients are essential to preserve the authenticity of the flavours, a vital aspect for Carlos and his team.
But Estampas Peruanas is not only known for its food, but also for the influence of Nikkei culture on its menu. Carlos, who is of Japanese descent, fuses Japanese culinary techniques with Peruvian ingredients, creating a unique dining experience.
“The fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine has given rise to dishes such as tiradito, which combines the delicacy of Japanese sashimi with the flavor of yellow chili and tiger’s milk,” explains Carlos. This influence is also reflected in other emblematic dishes such as lomo saltado, which highlights the harmony between both cuisines.
The menu has evolved over the years, but always maintaining a balance between tradition and innovation. “We focus on offering the most representative dishes of Peruvian gastronomy, such as classic ceviche, lomo saltado and anticuchos, but we are always looking for new ways to surprise our customers,” says Carlos. This commitment to excellence has ensured that Estampas Peruanas remains a favorite destination for locals.
The restaurant’s décor also plays a major role in the diners’ experience. The walls are adorned with Peruvian art that reflects the country’s rich culture. Carlos, who has a deep respect for his heritage, explains that each piece has a special meaning. “The décor not only beautifies the space, but also serves to educate and promote Peruvian culture,” he says.
In addition to food and décor, Estampas Peruanas hosts cultural events, such as live music performances, to continue promoting Peruvian culture. “Every month, we have live Peruvian music, which allows us to offer a complete experience to our customers,” Carlos adds.
The Challenge and the community
Like every business, Estampas Peruanas has faced challenges. Competition in the restaurant industry in the United States is fierce, but Carlos has learned that the key to success is not only in the quality of the food, but in the experience offered to the customer. “Service and hospitality are just as important as the food. We have managed to build a solid and passionate team,” says Carlos.
The response from the community has been extremely positive. “From day one, we have felt welcomed by a diverse community curious to discover the authentic flavors of Perú,” he says. Customer loyalty has been a fundamental part of Estampas Peruanas’ success, many of whom return constantly, becoming part of the restaurant’s gastronomic family.
Differentiation
What really sets Estampas Peruanas apart from other Peruvian restaurants in the region is its focus on authenticity and a family atmosphere. “We don’t just serve food, we provide an experience where customers feel at home,” says Carlos. While many Peruvian restaurants have embraced fusions or international culinary trends, Estampas Peruanas remains true to its roots, offering a culinary proposal that respects tradition without losing freshness and innovation.
With every dish served, with every customer greeted with a smile and with every decorative detail that adorns the restaurant, Estampas Peruanas is not just a place to eat, but a gastronomic experience that brings its visitors closer to the heart of Perú. In a world where globalization sometimes blurs cultural boundaries, Estampas Peruanas offers a little piece of Perú in Redwood City, where every bite tells a story of tradition, passion and love for Peruvian culture.
