I don’t know about you, but I usually associate South American food with hot peppers and Tabasco sauce. I was a frequent flyer at Tampicos and enjoy the heat, so when Mai-Liis asked me to go try El Tumbao with her, I thought she was crazy. See, she usually stays away from spicy food, so I warned her, but she assured me the owner told her it was mild, so I thought, why not.

She was right!

El Tumbao offers a variety of authentic Peruvian specialties that are big on taste but won’t trigger heartburn, but the tropical atmosphere will warm your heart.

We had the Lomo Saltado (beef) and the Alas de Pollo (chicken wings) over lunch. My only regret is that we didn’t try a wider variety of à la carte items. I will definitely be back to sample the sea food. Ceviche is, after all, an original Peruvian delicacy, and one of my favourite food of all times.

The beef was very tender, not chewy at all, and full of bold flavour. You could tell they use only the best cut. No fat, no veins. The wings were well cooked and crispy and were served alongside a house dipping sauce made with saltine crackers among other things. Surprising huh? Both dish came with fries which were some of the best I’ve tasted around here.

The menu is selective, but on point. Ceviche (fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices) and Charcoal grilled meats are definitely the stars of the show. Breakfast and Lunch menus offer a good selection, at a price point below $15. Family portions also available.

It’s a definite must-try.

El Tumbao – 25 Second St E, Cornwall, ON, (613) 935-3181