Artesana, Peruvian Cuisine in Alicante, Spain
Artesana: A Corner of Peruvian Gastronomy in the Heart of Alicante
In the heart of Alicante lies the restaurant Artesana, a place where emblematic dishes of Peruvian cuisine are prepared. Its owners, José Francisco Ocaña Vigil and José Luis Pimentel Zorrilla—two young Peruvians who have known each other for over 20 years and are both trained in hospitality—decided to introduce the rich gastronomy of their country to the city.
Alicante, located in the Valencian Community in southeastern Spain, is a coastal city with a warm climate, famous for its tourism, beaches, and cultural heritage. Its main attractions include Santa Bárbara Castle, the Explanada de España, Postiguet and San Juan beaches, the picturesque Santa Cruz neighborhood, as well as museums such as the Archaeological Provincial Museum and the Contemporary Art Museum. The nearby island of Tabarca is also a must-visit, known for its fresh seafood.
The restaurant Artesana offers a diverse menu of traditional Peruvian dishes, highlighting fish-based preparations such as ceviches and potato-based dishes—potatoes have been a staple since pre-Inca times—like causa de pollo (chicken causa) and papa rellena (stuffed potato). They also serve chifa cuisine, including chicken fried rice (arroz chaufa), as well as aperitifs made with pisco, Peruvian beers (including Cuzqueña), traditional beverages like Inca Kola, and vegan options.
During my last visit to Artesana in July 2023, I had the opportunity to try several of its signature dishes, such as causa de pollo, lomo saltado (stir-fried beef), and ceviche. I can confirm that the quality and flavor are on par with the finest Peruvian cuisine you would find in Peru. Artesana offers not only authenticity but also a gastronomic experience that transports diners directly to the heart of Peruvian cuisine.
Menu highlights at Artesana
Appetizers
- Empanada de ají de gallina: Dough filled with shredded chicken in a yellow chili sauce.
- Papa rellena: Mashed potato stuffed with seasoned meat and fried.
- Yucas fritas: Crispy yuca pieces served with Peruvian sauces.
- Papa a la huancaína: Potato slices with a creamy yellow chili and fresh cheese sauce.
Main Dishes
- Ceviches: Classic, northern, and mixed ceviche, made with fresh fish in leche de tigre marinade.
- Lomo saltado: Stir-fried beef with onion, tomato, rice, and fries.
- Ají de gallina: Shredded chicken in a creamy yellow chili sauce, served with white rice.
- Chaufa: Peruvian fried rice with meats and vegetables.
Desserts
- Suspiro limeño: Sweet condensed milk-based dessert with meringue.
- Mazamorra morada: Purple corn pudding with fruits and spices.
- Crema de lúcuma: Creamy dessert made with lúcuma, an Andean fruit.
Drinks
- Pisco sour: Peru’s signature cocktail, freshly made.
- Chicha morada: Non-alcoholic drink made from purple corn.
- Inca Kola: A popular Peruvian soda with a sweet taste.
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Interview with José Francisco Ocaña Vigil, Co-owner of Artesana
When was Artesana opened?
Artesana Comida Peruana was inaugurated in April 2021.
What is the most requested dish?
The most popular dish among diners is the fish ceviche (corvina).
Which drink is ordered the most?
The most requested beverage is Pisco Sour, both in its classic and passion fruit versions. At Artesana, they say their customers drink more Pisco Sour than water.
What is the most requested beer?
The preferred beer is Cuzqueña, both blonde and dark varieties. Customers seek a complete gastronomic experience, so they pair Peruvian beer with traditional dishes, along with Pisco Sour, Chicha Morada, and Inca Kola.
Is there a Peruvian community in Alicante?
Although the Peruvian community in Alicante is smaller compared to Madrid or Barcelona, it has grown in recent years to approximately 2,000 people. We estimate that about 50% of our customers are from Alicante, 30% are tourists, and 20% are Peruvians.
How does Artesana celebrate Peru’s national holiday?
Every July 28, since its opening, Artesana celebrates Peru’s Independence Day with live música criolla, performed by the group Mistura Criolla, who play the greatest hits of Peruvian music.
What is Alicante’s culinary specialty?
The specialty is rice dishes. The province has more than 300 types of paella-style rice dishes, prepared with seafood and mountain ingredients.
Your Next Culinary Stop in Alicante: Artesana
If you’re in Alicante and want an authentic gastronomic experience that transports you to Peru, you must visit Artesana. With its cozy atmosphere and dishes full of tradition and flavor, this restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy the best of Peruvian cuisine in the heart of the city. Don't miss the chance to try its ceviches, causas, and other classics that will delight your palate!
Location and Contact Information
Location, Hours, and Contact Information
Artesana is located at Carrer Poeta Campos Vasallo 11, 03004 Alicante, Spain.
Reservations can be made by phone at +34 643 437 247 or through their website www.artesanacocinaperuana.com.
They are also on Instagram and Facebook as @artesana.cocina.peruana.