Chef Eric RmIrez is transforming Peruvian cuisine through his innovative restaurants, including Papa in New York. By blending traditional Peruvian flavors with Japanese influences, he creates a unique dining experience that celebrates cultural diversity and personal heritage.
This week on The Dish, we explore the culinary journey of Chef Eric RmIrez, a creative force behind several acclaimed restaurants, including the cult favorites Llama in New York, London, and Madrid. At his latest venture, Papa, located in New York's Hudson Yards, RmIrez is crafting a personal menu that redefines Peruvian cuisine.
Nestled between the towering glass skyscrapers of Hudson Yards, Papa is a Peruvian izakaya inspired by traditional Japanese post-work watering holes. RmIrez aims to create an inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy a meal with friends, on a date, or simply unwind after work. The concept pays homage to RmIrez's great-grandfather, who migrated from Japan to Peru, highlighting the deep connections between food and heritage.
"One way to really learn about your heritage, I think, is through food." - Chef Eric RmIrez
RmIrez's culinary journey began in a predominantly Peruvian community in New Jersey, where his passion for cooking was ignited by an uncle who made cooking a fun and enjoyable hobby. After spending a decade in some of New York's top kitchens, RmIrez was drawn back to his roots and the diverse culinary landscape of Peru.
"What I experienced was something that I've never experienced before. I was exposed to ingredients that I've never had in my entire life." - Chef Eric RmIrez
His travels to Peru introduced him to modern cooking techniques and a focus on flavor, which he sought to bring back to his own kitchen.
At Papa, RmIrez's menu is a celebration of Peru's rich culinary diversity, incorporating indigenous ingredients and influences from African, Chinese, Japanese, and Spanish cuisines. This fusion creates a unique dining experience that reflects the complexity of Peruvian culture.
Some standout dishes from RmIrez's menu include:
"When you already attach the word pizza to something, it's like, 'Oh, I know what that is.'" - Chef Eric RmIrez
RmIrez's innovative approach has not only elevated the perception of Peruvian cuisine in New York but has also instilled a sense of pride in his heritage. He has successfully transformed how Peruvian food is viewed, both in Peru and the United States.
"We really believed in something and it just resonated. I think we've made a name for Peruvian food in New York and we've elevated it." - Chef Eric RmIrez
Chef Eric RmIrez's culinary journey is a testament to the power of food as a means of exploring identity and heritage. Through his innovative dishes and unique dining experiences, he continues to redefine Peruvian cuisine, making it accessible and exciting for a new generation of food lovers. His work at Papa is not just about food; it's about celebrating cultural diversity and the rich tapestry of flavors that define Peruvian culinary traditions.
