Although an unlikely place in the world to find authentic Latin American cuisine, one restaurant in Norman offers an opportunity for OU students and others alike to sample some of Peru's most famous dishes.
Opened in December of 2007 serving Mexican food only, Mamaveca now uses ingredients and recipes from popular restaurants in Peru, said William Chunga, owner and native of Lima, Peru.
Chunga, a hard-working member of the Oklahoma City restaurant business for over 20 years, began serving a separate Peruvian menu at Mamaveca 6 months after the opening.This was so Chunga could get his feet on the ground and allow long-time associate Renato Victorio, from Lima, to become the head chef. The plan was for Victorio to use his unique kitchen skills to create an authentic Peruvian menu people in Oklahoma could enjoy, Chunga said.
"He[Victorio] specializes in seafood dishes, and it is just amazing the way he prepares them," said Chunga. "You will not find any other ceviche in Oklahoma like this".
Ceviche is a traditional Peruvian dish consisting mainly of raw fish marinated in lime juice with onions, peppers, and seasonings, Chunga said.
"In the very beginning we had some trouble with the ceviche. We didn't train the waiters the right way. A lot of people who ordered the ceviche didn't know what ceviche was and they were disappointed to find out," Chunga said. "But most people, once they try it, they like it".
If you aren't brave enough to try out the ceviche, there are plenty of dishes for everybody to enjoy, Chunga said.
"Alot of the students who have come so far have enjoyed it and have come back," Chunga said. "We are glad our culture can be spread through our food".
Here is a link to some reviews on Mamaveca and a copy of the menu.
Here is a map of the location:
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