When El Chalan Restaurant first opened its doors in 1975, it served mainly American foods, like hot dogs, hamburgers, and fries. But the Peruvian owners served up a few dishes from their homeland each weekend, and over time, the demand for authentic Peruvian cuisine outpaced the hot dog and hamburger sales.

For several decades now, El Chalan has focused exclusively on serving traditional Peruvian dishes to a happy DC clientele. The menu emphasizes the seafood, beef, and potato dishes that are part of a traditional Peruvian diet, and regulars recommend that you try some of the classic appetizers like the mixed ceviche with fish, shrimp, squid, and mussels, or the mashed potatoes stuffed with beef, egg, and olives. House specialties include seafood paella, which takes a full half hour to prepare after you order, but is supposed to be well worth the wait, as well as steaks grilled to order.

Visit the El Chalan Restaurant website to learn more about this eatery near Residences on the Avenue!

El Chalan Restaurant
1924 I Street Northwest
Washington, DC 20006
(202) 293-2765
elchalandc.com