Vancouver’s first true Peruvian cevicheria is coming to Chinatown
We love a Vancouver first, and this is a Canadian first, too: The country’s first true Peruvian cevicheria and raw bar is opening in Chinatown.
Sister restaurant to the award-winning modern Peruvian spot, Suyo, Uchu will be offering diners a delicious deep dive into Peru’s coastal region.
Chef Ricardo Valverde and his talented team are behind this new venture, which will be opening at 158 E. Pender St. in early fall.
During a phone catch-up with Dished, Valverde said that initially the team was looking at locations all over the city for Uchu, but when he visited the Pender Street spot, he instantly knew it was the one.
The 6,000 sq. ft. space (formerly Sai Woo) will offer 68 seats, including eight seats at the bar and eight more at the connected raw bar, where folks will watch beautiful seafood towers and fresh dishes be created right before their eyes.
The restaurant’s downstairs area will be a completely different project… but more on that later.
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Uchu will focus on Peruvian coastal cuisine, inspired by the country’s Pacific coastline and bordering regions like Ecuador and Chile. Valverde adds that traditional cevicherias are “humble, beach-town eateries,” not born in upscale areas but deeply rooted in the culture.
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The food here will reflect Valverde’s heritage and technical skill, using local West Coast seafood and techniques while showcasing Peruvian flavours.
On top of the aforementioned Peruvian-style seafood tower, Valverde says to expect bites like oysters with ceviche sauces and paella-style rice dishes, all interpreted through the modern lens of the chef.
For the interior, we’re told that the vibes will be relaxed and decor will feature earthy, maritime tones with natural brick and warm textures. A collaboration on a sculpture made by a Peruvian artist is also in the works, we’re told.
We’ll keep you posted on an exact opening date for this one. Stay tuned!
Uchu Cevicheria & Raw Bar
Address: 158 E. Pender St., Vancouver
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