04/13/2017 Edit: Opening now scheduled for mid-June
Peruvian cuisine is coming to Joesler Village at the northwest corner of River Road and Campbell Avenue.
Villa Peru Restaurant is scheduled to open in mid-April at the space which previously housed Contigo Latin Kitchen’s original location, 1745 E. River Rd #165.
“It’s a family-owned business,” said Frida Hunt, co-owner for Villa Peru. “My mom and dad will be the chefs, while my sister and I will manage the front-of-house.”
Hunt’s parents are currently working at Villa Peru in Tempe, which will close around the time the Tucson location opens.
Since Hunt and her sister live in Tucson and many of Villa Peru’s regulars make the drive from Tucson, the relocation made the most sense, Hunt said.
While Peruvian classics such as ceviche and causas will stay on the menu, the family is working on refining the menu. The ingredients will also be fresh and organic whenever possible, Hunt said.
“We’re creating a special menu for all the fine people in Tucson,” Hunt said.
Keeping in theme, Villa Peru will feature a pisco bar. Local beers will also be available.
“We want to share our food and culture with all kinds of people,” Hunt said.
Operating hours will be 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. through 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.