By: Maryanne Salvat

Last night we had the pleasure of dining at the beloved Peruvian gastrobar, Pisco y Nazca, Centurion Restaurant Group’s (CRG) newest addition on Coral Gables’ Miracle Mile.    The authentic dining experience brings locals and visitors a taste of Peru. From the creators and owners of Bulla Gastrobar, Beehive Kitchen, and Havana Harry’s, Centurion Restaurant Group opened the company’s first Pisco y Nazca in 2015 in Kendall, Florida. Since then, Pisco y Nazca has expanded, with locations in Florida (Doral and Coral Gables) Virginia (Reston), and Washington DC. The restaurant’s name stems from the Peruvian saying, “Entre Pisco y Nazca,” meaning having fun and enjoying the company of loved ones – which is the atmosphere they aim to provide all the communities they serve.

The menu boasts a selection of Peruvian classic dishes with a twist, prepared with the finest ingredients. From traditional ceviches (we enjoyed the Cremoso) bursting with fresh flavors to mouthwatering sushi rolls, yes I said sushi, the Lomo Saltado Roll to be precise; probably one of the most original rolls we have experienced. The main dish of Lomo Saltado was exceptional, served with a plentiful side of white rice and fries large enough to share. Every dish tells a story of Peru’s rich culinary heritage.

For those seeking a true taste of Peru’s national spirit, the bar offers an extensive list of Pisco-based cocktails, expertly crafted by mixologists, as well as a daily Happy Hour from 4-7 p.m. appropriately named Hora Loca.

Located at 101 Miracle Mile, Pisco y Nazca Coral Gables is open Sunday (11am – 10pm), Monday – Tuesday (11:30am – 10pm), Wednesday – Thursday (11:30am – 11pm), Friday (11:30am – 12am) and Saturday (11am – 12am). To view the restaurant’s menus and make a reservation, guests can visit www. piscoynazca.com/coral-gables/. For updates on the restaurant and its sister locations, follow them on Instagram at @piscoynazca.

Culinary forces unite to help Haiti.  From Monday, February 1, through Sunday, February  7 .  Twenty of South Florida’s finest  restaurants,  and U.S. Fund for UNICEF, will be participating together in an effort to send relief to Haiti.  Diners will be given the option to contribute funds by adding their donation onto their checks.

 Participating restaurants include:  Azul at Mandarin Oriental Miami, Café Sambal at Mandarin Oriental Miami, Eos at the Viceroy, The Grill at The Setai,  The Grill on the Alley, Jaguar Ceviche, La Marea at The Tides, Lime Fresh Grill, Luna Corner Pizza, Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink, Michy’s, Ortanique, Perricone’s,  Red the Steakhouse,Quattro, The Restaurant at The Setai, Solea at W South Beach, SRA. Martinez, Talavera Cocina Mexicana, Talula, Two Chefs, and Wish at The Hotel restaurants. For more information, please contact Susan Brustman or Larry Carrino at Bustman Carrion Public Relations, 305.573.0658 or BCPR@brustmancarrinopr.com.

SUSHISAMBA,  Sunny Isle’s Kitchen 305, Miami Beach’s Café Prima Pasta, LUCKY STRIKE, MAYA Tapas and Grill, and MORENA will also be collecting donations for Haitian relief to assist the American Red Cross. Patrons will be able to add contributions on their checks, as well.  One hundred percent of the proceeds collected will be  donated for relief supplies and  financial resources to aide the victims of this devastating tragedy. For more information, please contact Abbi Johnson at  www.Treskoipr.com.