The Noche Criolla series will take over the Peruvian Restaurant every second Thursday of the month.
The vibrancy of Peru’s culinary scene is arguably the country’s biggest draw, but to overlook comida criolla – creole food – would be, quite frankly, wrong. The result of Andean, African, Spanish, Chinese, and Japanese culinary traditions coming together, this multifaceted fusion cuisine is taking centre stage at La Mar by Gastón Acurio as Noche Criolla takes over the Peruvian eatery at Atlantis The Royal.
The monthly celebration of the diverse influences that shape Peruvian Creole cuisine is held every second Thursday of the month, translating to evenings rooted in a ten-dish sharing-style menu accented by a curated selection of signature cocktails and mocktails (unlimited Peruvian beverages included), all set to upbeat live entertainment. Blending lively tradition with Michelin-level service, La Mar invites guests on a journey into the heart of Peru, featuring bold flavours and cultural rhythms.
Creole cuisine, born from centuries of cultural exchange, is a celebration of community and joy. The evening unfolds with live entertainment that spans salsa dancers and live singers, transforming dinner into a full-on celebration. “This traditional sharing-style menu is inspired by the dishes our team grew up with, recipes from our grandmothers and families,” explains Chef Andreé Nuñez, Chef de Cuisine. “Most of our team is from Peru, so we have drawn from everyone’s childhood memories to create a menu that’s truly from the heart.”
Guests can look forward to starters such as Tiradito Peru, the catch of the day delicately sliced and dressed in a citrusy blend of yellow chilli, rocoto pepper, and classic leche de tigre. A standout dish for Chef Andreé is the Cebiche Carretillero, a bold and hearty interpretation that reflects the evolution of cebiche across Peru, tracing its evolution from classic preparations to today’s seafood-rich flavours. Diners can then savour the Classic Anticucho, a dish that highlights the African influence on Peruvian cuisine. Traditionally made with beef heart, this beloved street food has become a staple across the country, found in both casual and fine-dining settings. Together, these dishes capture the deep cultural roots and adaptability of Peruvian gastronomy.
Nuñez, for the uninitiated, hails from Arequipa, a city steeped in Peru’s rich culinary traditions. His passion for cooking ignited at just 14 and, by 17, he had joined Acurio International, laying the foundation for a career marked by bold creativity and relentless pursuit of excellence. Since then, his culinary journey has taken him through some of the world’s most celebrated kitchens, including Lima’s iconic Astrid & Gastón and the three-Michelin-starred El Celler de Can Roca in Spain.
Closer to home, Nuñez has played a pivotal role in launching and leading acclaimed dining concepts across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha. Discover why he has been hailed as a guardian of Peruvian gastronomy as Noche Criolla runs from 6pm to 11pm on 14 August, 11 September, and 9 October.
Discover: Noche Criolla. La Mar by Gastón Acurio, Atlantis The Royal, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. @lamardubai
