Embark on a Flavorful Odyssey of Peru at Llama Restaurant in St. Augustine

From the cobblestone streets of historic St. Augustine, Florida, to the mountain terraces of Machu Picchu, stepping into Llama Restaurant is akin to embarking on a soulful journey to the heart of Peru. Right from the threshold, one gets whisked away into a world where culinary artistry transcends mere sustenance, delivering a symphony of flavors, textures, and tales from a country renowned for its gastronomic treasures.

Llama’s visionary, Chef Marcel Vizcarra, stands at the epicenter of this adventure. His youth brims with enthusiasm, and his talent paints the plate with an aesthetic that’s equal parts tradition and innovation. Vizcarra’s passion for food resonates deeply, inspired by memories from his family table, the precision of his Japanese training, and the finesse imparted by his education at Le Cordon Bleu. With him at the helm, the menu becomes an ever-evolving canvas, allowing for dynamic expressions that surprise and delight regular patrons.

It’s impossible not to be entranced by the theatricality with which each dish is presented. The meticulous execution, the awe-inspiring plating, it’s as though the diner is privy to sets of a theater, seamlessly transitioning from one act to the next, each surpassing the last in grandeur and flavor.

Beginning the experience, a complimentary bowl of warm Peruvian corn and yucca chips offered a taste of authentic comfort. This was perfectly paired with the effervescent and unique ‘Chichamosas’ – a beautiful blend of purple corn, pineapple, lime, spices, and champagne.

The cornerstone of any Peruvian meal, the ceviche, was an absolute revelation. Llama’s rendition hit all the right notes with its zesty brightness.

Our culinary exploration led us to the Causa Trio for starters, a tantalizing trio of causa cakes crowned with shrimp, chicken and octopus – a harmonious melding of flavors that danced on the palate. The main course, Tallarines con Chancho, was a triumph. The panca pepper and Malbec braised pork belly sat lusciously over tagliatelle, all bathed in a Peruvian Pesto and soy glaze that was nothing short of heavenly.

To round off this exquisite journey, the Sacred Valley dessert arrived like a poetic ode to Peru. The quillabamba cacao mousse, juxtaposed with eucalyptus gel and spiced chocolate sauce, sprinkled with Maras salt, was a dessert that satisfied not just the sweet tooth, but the soul.

Llama Restaurant isn’t just a place to dine; it’s a Peruvian experience, a narrative crafted with love and passion by Chef Vizcarra. Every visit promises an immersion into a culture rich with history and taste, and for those who venture in, a memory that lasts long after the final bite. Relax, unwind, and let Llama Restaurant take you on a culinary adventure beyond compare.

Note: Be sure to make reservations as this is a small restaurant.

Llama Restaurant Contact Information

• Address: 415 Anastasia Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080
• Phone: 904-819-1760
• Website: http://llamarestaurant.com/
• Guest Services: llamarestaurant@gmail.com
• Notes: Your table will be reserved for 1 hour 30 minutes for parties of up to 2; 2 hours for parties of up to 4; 2 hours 30 minutes for parties of up to 6.