Truly a must-go in Rockford for anyone wanting to break away from the reruns of meat and potatoes of typical Midwestern cuisine. Honestly, this spot seems out of place in Rockford and seems like something you would find in a bigger city. The decor is colorful and bright, the drink selection is very impressive and creative and the menu is broad yet impeccably put together. I've been here a few times and had some excellent meals, though I'd like to mention the recent restaurant week menu. I brought my fiancé and parents here for a weekend dinner and they were a little skeptical about the empty restaurant. For the weekend, there were a lot of people waking right past, but perhaps the sub-zero temperatures were keeping their eyes focused on getting to their cars only. We were greeted warmly by the server/hostess/bartender (she wore many hats that night!) and ushered to a tablescape that seemed almost too nice to be in the Forest City. We ordered drinks per our server's recommendations and were not disappointed. Full of tropical fruits, peruvian liquors, and a little kick (not all are spicy, just ones we chose)...they were a delight. All were served in fantastical glassware ranging from a mirrored martini glass, a stemmed glass with dangling chili peppers, and a gorilla head. Yep, you read that correctly. My drink was served in a painted gorilla head with star fruit on top. Absolutely delicious. We ordered an appetizer with mussels, ceviche, and a potato dish, as well as fried cassava. To my delight all the seafood tasted nearly as fresh as a coastal city where the fish is likely just out of the water. Everything was perfectly seasoned and not too chewy. The mains were another home run-- the guys got a VERY hearty pork stew and a beef and potato dish (so even those who still want meat and potatoes can feel at home here!) and the ladies a fish dish with a red sauce and a squid ink orzo with seafood. Nothing left us wanting more, but for me the orzo was a complete surprise. It was a gorgeous presentation with exquisite color and the flavor-- so light and yet so... there is no other word for it... buttery. EVERYONE at the table needed more than a bite. We rounded off dessert with a passion fruit mousse (honestly we were stuffed but felt we had to try something else as everything was so scrumptious) and rolled out of there talking about how shocking it was to have SUCH a high-quality and unique place in downtown Rockford. They got more tables as the night continued, but I'd have loved to see more. I would HATE for the people of Rockford not to have this experience. A few tips, the prices are higher than some of the other places in the area (as is the quality!), so be aware. Also they make everything fresh so plan for the evening to be a bit longer than elsewhere. But I cannot stress enough that no matter your tastes you will be very well cared for here, and have an experience you'll remember. And if you're not sure what to order, ask! The owners and servers are knowledgeable and friendly. They will steer you well! Tl;dr: This place is a foodie experience seemingly transported from a bigger city, and we are lucky to have it here in Rockford! Give them a try! read more

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Very nice place for some modern Peruvian food. The service was outstanding. The waiter even made a cocktail that wasn't even on the menu. Loved the feeling and ambiance of the place. read more

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Amazing restaurant, service and overall experience. The colorful vibe is inviting and so much fun. The food was full of flavor, generous portions, and we couldn't get enough! Drinks were strong and there's a great variety. A definite must when in the area. read more

LimaMar Restaurant - a plate of food on a table - Peruvian Near Me - Rockford, Illinois

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Ceviche Nikkei was delicious, the "Leche de Trige" was different from other places, never the less, it was devine. The Tuna was fresh, good portion for the cocktail. In overall I enjoy the food from Lima Mar from Peru. Well done! I also try the Yuqitas, love it, I am not sure about the Huancaina sauce. For some reason was missing something, good sauce, but it was missing some kick in the sauce. Overall very good! read more

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Lovely fusion restaurant with the delicious and tastefully presented dishes from a Peruvian chef. While reading the menu online, we were attracted by a variety of the fish and seafood offerings. The quality did not disappoint. My broiled scallops with Parmesan cheese were cooked to perfection and were nicely complimented by cassava served with a special sauce. My husband smoked seafood and rice traditional Peruvian dish had a very pleasant smoky aroma. The lucuma ice cream was an excellent finish of a tasty meal. I will be back! read more

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OMG!!! OMGGGGG!!! my girlfriend and I stopped in here on a Sunday just to take a peek at what it looked like. We ended up sitting at the bar for a cocktail and enjoyed a couple of appetizers. I cannot praise this place highly enough! We were both over the top impressed with the quality of cocktails, and the appetizers we enjoyed were out of this world. Ross, the owner and mixologist, schooled us on Peruvian liquors, salts and engaged us in some interesting conversation on how they came about creating the dishes, cocktails, and how he embraces the philosophy of Peru to offer his customers excellent cuisine and drinks. we cannot wait to return for a full meal and sample more of the cocktail choices, and food. We truly enjoyed the time we spent, the food is fabulous, the drinks are memorable, and the atmosphere and ambience is just perfect. And to add to Ross' resume, he built/created the entire space-you are in for a real treat when you visit. double highly recommend! you will thank me. read more

Not from the area but I would always come back. Very good customer service and outstanding food. A nice spot to escape from IL into Spain, Peru and the Dominican with a modern flare. read more

LimaMar Restaurant - Yucca fries Aji de Gallina - Peruvian Near Me - Rockford, Illinois

Excellent dining experience. It is very apparent the owner takes pride in his food. Our meal was crafted with care and was our best dining experience in Rockford. We will definitely be back with friends to sample all of the delicious cocktails. read more

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It was a rainy August Saturday and we were looking for a place to chill and have drinks and good food to share. LimaMar exceeded our expectations. We were transported from Rockford to an oasis of chill. Cool jazzy music, bright decor and soothing Llamas all brought together a great journey of spectacular food and drinks. We started with drinks: Mez-Uchu - mexcal and Aji Amarillo and pineapple juice. Spicey and sweet and a Watermelon Baby - fresh watermelon and strong. Our first shared plate was Chonchitas a la Paresana - delicious scallops, cheese and homemade butter. We then had a main course from the special menu- Lomo Souffle - corn souffle with "Lomo Saltado" on top. Delectable and savory. Our next drinks were another Mez-Uchu and a Dessert Cocktail of ChocoBomBom, Chocolate vodka, coffee and Empire Stout. Dessert was a dark chocolate mousse with homemade marshmallows. Ross was our server and is the owner. He designs the drinks. His wife is the chef. He decorated down to the last detail - the Llamas, the light fixtures, the women's bathroom was exquisite. We were told that the men's room was even better, but we did not look. (it was a girls' weekend) Have dinner here to have an evening of savory food and a journey away from Midwestern humdrum. read more

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Cocktails were simply the best! The service felt personable and ambiance of the restaurant was cozy. The plating of the food was thoughtful and elegant, I felt bad to eat them. For the appetizer, I recommend the Parmesan scallops and be sure to try their desserts!! read more

Incredible place that transcends the local Rockford area by bringing a taste of Peru to Illinois. Excellent owners and wonderful food.

Such a great hidden gem in downtown Rockford. The vibe and food presentation remind me of a Chicago restaurant. Highly recommend the Traditional Ceviche, Spoons Nikkei, Beef Anticuchero. Lomo Saltado and Fuji Salmon were good. Another highlight were the drinks! Beautifully presented with glitter or an actual bubble on top! Plus treat yourself to the ice cream. Delish! So why 4 stars? The dinner took forever! We arrived at 5:45 but didn't get our check until 8:30. They only had one server who was working so hard waiting tables AND bartending. We felt really bad for her. There were only a few tables filled at that point yet the kitchen couldn't keep up. As an apology the server gave us a free app which was nice. We will definitely try again to see if it was an off night. Our bill was $160 for 3 ppl. Totally worth it. read more

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Just a wonderful experience. Creative cocktails and the service was superb. Loved trying Peruvian cuisine and waitress guided us through with great energy! Definitely coming back! read more

Food - not bad, love the presentation and it is tasty but on the salty side. Ambience - lovely, very unique & quiet. Would I return ? No, salty food. read more

LimaMar Restaurant - Dessert is so so. - Peruvian Near Me - Rockford, Illinois

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You'll come for the food, but stay for the alpacas! The food is good,the service great. They were happy to educate us on the menu. Ask about their signature drink! read more

Service was incredibly slow, which is understandable because they only had one guy as the server and the bartender. Even though I had a reservation, it still took them 30 mins to seat us. The wait was so long for my food (over an hour) and I almost considered leaving but I was already so hungry at that point and I really wanted to test the food. The seafood rice dish I ordered was salty. Portions were okay, but for the price I paid, I expected a more elevated experience. Disappointed, likely won't come back. Others seem to have left high ratings so perhaps it was just a bad night for them. Ambience was nice, admittedly. read more

We had a fabulous meal at LimaMar! Everything from the cocktails to the desserts are elevated, interesting and delicious. Standouts we're the Bubble Pop cocktail, the oysters, the wontons, and their signature beef dish. I had the salmon which was perfectly cooked and came with the best mashed potatoes I ever ate. The space is beautiful too. We will definitely be back soon. read more

Very good foods and service. The environment sphere inside of designed are amazing. Good for wedding photography and events.

We tried Lima Mar for the first time tonight. We had the ceviche, the salmon, the beef saltado, and the wontons. The ceviche was just OK in my opinion but the rest was really good. The Peruvian mashed potatoes that came with the salmon was SO good and im not usually a mashed potato person. I also had a bubble cocktail that had an actual bubble on top. So fun! read more

This restaurant is a diamond in the rough culinary scene of this small Midwest city. This is Peruvian cuisine at its best, comparable to any top Peruvian restaurant in a larger market or Peru itself. The menu is creative, beautifully executed and plated. Everything we ordered was truly outstanding, from the ceviche to the lomo and the pescado sudado! The decor is beautiful, the china and flatware were exquisitely selected and the service was impeccable. All of that, plus their attention to every detail, make LimaMar a very special place. Highly recommended for locals looking for really good food and those of us who happen to be in this town for business or a special occasion. read more

Stopped in for quick drinks and a snack. Ordered various cocktails and shared their seafood sampler appetizer. Presentation, flavor and portion sizes were all on point! Service was efficient and friendly! Plus, the place is adorable- so nicely decorated and filled with natural light in the afternoon! Highly recommend. read more

LimaMar Restaurant - Callao - Peruvian Near Me - Rockford, Illinois

Enjoyed a great meal here with delicious drinks served in a fun and funky atmosphere pre-pandemic. Glad to see they are holding up through these tough times. read more

LimaMar Restaurant - Peruvian Near Me - Rockford, Illinois

Such a hidden gem! The couple who own this local restaurant are wonderful people and their food not only yummy but beautiful too. I went here with family and we all agreed the Fuji Salmon was the best entree and the Spoon Nikkei was the best appetizer. For me personally, I was OBSESSED with the Alfajor ice cream. I wish they sold it by the gallon! read more

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The food is good but extremely overpriced for what it is with small portions. The service was OK.. The server Felt pushy when it came to what I was trying to order. The ambience is amazing but on the end of the day I feel that's what I'm paying for. I get they are the only Peruvian restaurant in the area but they absolutely monopolize on that fact. read more

The food here is delicious. I had a seafood pasta. Unlike a lot of places, here the sauce is made with a seafood stick - you could taste the seafood in the sauce. The pasta was loaded with shrimp. My wife had a beef orzo dish. The beef was tender and very tasty. The service is attentive without being overly so. Ambiance is great. Nice decor, intimate, not too loud and music that's bluesy, jazzy, Latin. A nice place for an adult meal with your spouse or with a small group of friends. read more

First off I love the atmosphere. Very eclectic and inviting. Food is also fantastic. Great menu with a large selection and awesome variety. Flavors of all the dishes as well as the tenderness of the meats are amazing. The traditional elements of the food really make you feel like you are experiencing fine Peruvian dining. One thing I would recommend is getting the staff more organized. It feels very chaotic inside and the staff does not seem to know what is going on and they cant seem to keep themselves on task. When it takes 15 Minutes to process a credit card, or when you have to ask the same person three times for a glass of water while sitting at the bar, it makes for a bit if an annoying experience. They should also look into having a regular host or hostess manning the front door and getting people seated. It would help things move along a lot smoother. Overall, amazing food and a great atmosphere, the staffing just needs to be more organized and on their game. Once that happens, one can expect a great experience here. read more

Great food and fun exotic atmosphere! You can tell the chef cares about the food. Everything tasted fresh - comprised of authentic Peruvian flavors. The service was fanatic! Elise was the best and offered up great cocktail and dinner suggestions. We do not live in Rockford but will definitely make it back when we return! read more

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Its a bonafide 4.5. We had Lomo saltado and ahi Tuna and then cevichi nikki and Papa Huancaina. We loved it. Adorable place, beautiful ambiance and friendly wait staff. Definitely delicious and fun menu! read more

I have never had Peruvian food before so I am a novice, but wow. The flavors. The presentation. The creativity. I have to say bravo. LimaMar was delicious and the staff was so helpful in explaining the menus especially since I have a shellfish allergy and the menu has a lot of it. I hope others come to this restaurant because it needs to stick around. read more

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This restaurant was so delicious. But not only was it delicious but the decor of the restaurant was gorgeous. Our server was one of the owners and he was extremely friendly and so personable. Will definitely be going back here. read more

Always an amazing experience at Lima Mar! Food is made fresh to order by a master chef.

Really unique and delicious menu! Cute & fun decor. We were treated like members of the family. The chef came out to check on our meals. Everything we ate & drank was delicious! Try the Pisco Sour for sure! read more

LimaMar Restaurant - This was the Crazy Monkey drink. - Peruvian Near Me - Rockford, Illinois

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We started with Yuquitas con Huancaina. I had the Ají de Gallina and the hubby ordered Lomo Saltado. The food was delicious so we had to order a serving of Maracu Ya. Our sever was very pleasant and courteous. Wonderful atmosphere, definitely will be back sooner than later! read more

We came in for dinner on Friday night. The decor and ambiance was dazzling and very inviting. The food was wonderfully plated and presented. The flavors were bold and unique. We tried a couple of appetizers and the beef and rice dish. The best part of our experience though was our server Danielle! She was so sweet and informative and knowledgeable about the menu. She made us feel welcome and taken care of. It was fantastic to have a server who genuinely seemed to care about our experience. Also her recommendations were spot on. The salmon spoons really are to die for! We had never tried Peruvian food before and genuinely I cant believe we waited this long. Overall we were very pleased with our dinner and will definitely be coming back. The only drawbacks we found is that the dining room lights were a little too bright for our taste. Turn them down a bit please! Otherwise great service and amazing food. Cant wait to return and try their cocktails. read more

Our third visit here. Excellent food, drinks and music!! All the dishes we tried were fresh and delicious.

Happy to see a new addition to the Rockford dining scene, especially as the only Peruvian restaurant in the area. Decor is hip and atmoshere is nice. Dissapointments (shared with several new eateries on the block): #1 The prices, with entrees starting at $19. #2 The drinks, expensive and not generous or particarly special. #3 Very slow wait service. The food was tasty but not wow. A decent portion was served, but some of the pork AND the potatoes in my stew were difficult to cut through even with a knife. And the rice was cold, but i still cleaned my plate. Speaking of food, what does it say when 20 page menu has one page of entrees, one page of ceviche, and the remaining pages are drinks. I wish them much luck, but unfortunately won't be back. read more

LimaMar Restaurant - Peruvian Near Me - Rockford, Illinois

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How lucky we are to have a Peruvian restaurant in Rockford! Everything we ate was fantastic. The ceviche was so fresh and flavorful. Our entrees were so delicious and felt like comfort food. We ended with a dessert cocktail and a delicious shortbread and ice cream dish. Portions are very generous. Drinks are incredible and pretty! Our waitress provided us with great suggestions and talked us through the menu. Loved how the interior was decorated at well!!! We will definitely be back! read more

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Great food and drinks. Excellent service. The ceviche was divine. I would recommend trying a dish from each section of the menu. The restaurant was clean and all patrons wore masks read more

Wow! Our experience this weekend put this at the level of the best restaurants in Rockford. Amazing mix of tastes, attention to detail, and presentation. What you see on the website's pix is the caliber of what gets delivered. The Peruvian chef is a true cullinary artist. Can't believe we hadn't discovered this place. Very highly recommended. Great service, friendly staff. Looking forward to going back, and telling our friends. read more

We are foodies from San Francisco, so it's so great to come back to Rockford and find a really quality new restaurant. The atmosphere is great, the food was really well done and prepared. The owner/chef clearly care about quality. The service was also stellar. We came with our small kids and the staff couldn't have been more gracious towards them. We tried several of the speciality mains and all were good and fresh. I hope more people get to enjoy this new restaurant! read more