This is a must visit when in DC…read more
I enjoyed this place so much that I dined here back to back with two different groups and both raved about the octopus. We came during happy hour from 4-7 PM, which only applies to alcoholic beverages. The cocktails were excellent and definitely worth ordering. Service was a bit inconsistent, as our first visit had better timing and attentiveness, but both servers were pleasant. Each table was also given a dish of corn nuts to snack on while waiting for food.
*Pinazo: the lightest cocktail I tried. The pineapple flavor came through clearly even though the puree was not visible. It was very fragrant, though I could not detect the amarena cherry. The fruit largely masked the vodka.
*Lychee Pisco: the lychee puree itself was mild, with most of the flavor coming from the fruit garnish. The elderflower and hibiscus notes were more prominent. As someone who enjoys floral profiles, I liked this, though others may find it more perfumed than expected.
*Guapo's Pisco: the passionfruit was again on the milder side, while the ginger beer stood out more. Served in a metal mug, it drank like a sweeter Moscow Mule.
*Passion Pisco Sour: the pisco sours had more distinct and vibrant flavors overall, and I would highly recommend them if you enjoy fruit forward drinks with an egg white finish. There is also a flight option, which I would have ordered if not for happy hour. This one was my favorite, with a well balanced mix of tartness and sweetness.
*Chicha Sour: more tart than the passion version, with a warmer, spiced undertone. The cinnamon added a subtle smokiness, though it still leaned sweeter than expected.
*Ceviche Sampler: includes tradicional, cremoso, and callejero. A great way to try a range of flavors, and everyone in my group had a different favorite. I would recommend asking for crispy plantains, as they were not automatically included and help carry the seafood. The tradicional leaned heavily on acidity, allowing the fish to shine, though it felt a bit one note. The sweet potato helped balance it. The callejero was my favorite, with a noticeable kick in the leche de tigre. The cancha and choclo added nuttiness, earthiness, and crunch. The cremoso sat in between, with more body and a slightly sweeter, richer profile thanks to the sweet potato. My only complaint was that the fish pieces were cut quite large, so we had to break them down further.
*Causa Sampler: another trio featuring crocante, tartare, and pollo. These were heavier despite the smaller portions. The whipped potato base was well seasoned and had more structure than typical mashed potatoes. The crocante featured a large fried shrimp with rocoto aioli, though I would have preferred the sauce on the side. The flavor leaned like a standard spicy mayo. The tuna tartare had a Japanese influence, but the aioli was overly sweet, making the dish feel cloying. A thicker layer of avocado could have helped balance it. The wonton crisp was also missing both times I ordered it. The chicken version was the most mild and rustic, and needed more acidity or spice to bring it together. Despite this, the trio had potential with some adjustments.
*Plancha Pulpo: a must order. This featured a large grilled octopus leg served with causa and choclo on a sizzling plate. The octopus had a smoky char and garlicky chimichurri, with a perfect balance of tenderness and chew. It rivaled a well cooked steak and was easily the standout dish.
*Lomo Saltado: medium rare tenderloin stir fried with onions and peppers. The savory sweet sauce coated the fries, rice, and meat beautifully. The flavor leaned slightly Asian, and the beef was juicy and tender. The vegetables were soft and naturally sweet.
*Pionono: fried sponge cake filled with Nutella and dulce de leche. It was quite sweet, but the coffee chip ice cream added a deep, rich contrast. The ice cream alone was standout quality. This dessert is easily shareable among four.
*Flan: a classic base topped with grilled pineapple and quinoa tuille. The flan itself was smooth and creamy, though the pineapple's acidity distracted from it. It would have benefited from more caramelization. The quinoa tuille added texture more than flavor.
*Suspiro: a polarizing dessert, but one I personally enjoyed. The manjar blanco was extremely rich and sweet, paired with an equally sugary meringue. I would have liked more texture or a torched finish for contrast. The passionfruit glaze was my favorite element, though it was used sparingly and could have helped balance the dish more if incorporated throughout.
Pisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar deserves its praise. The portions are generous, and the flavors are thoughtfully composed. While there are small tweaks I would make, the overall execution stands out and feels a step above many other options in DC.