Rodrigo

They are totally slept at the wheel at Restaurante Rodrigo (Francisco de Paula 231 Miraflores). We dine but unfortunately the place is in a state of abandonment. The napkins and tablecloths go back to when Peroni gave them to the Restaurant, and feel like toilet paper from the many washings. The food was of course excellent, and service almost perfect. The wine (Neto Senetiner Cabernet/Syrah 2006) was well balanced and structured, but it was the only reasonable bottle within a wine list that is too expensive and lacks imagination. The desserts were bad.

In general, and unless Rodrigo Conroy decide to put a little bit of effort and re-invents himself, he will no longer be considered among the best in Lima. Let's hope this is not the case and he reacts in time.

5 Esquinas

The contrast is huge between the spectacular food but the horrendous atmosphere at Restaurante 5 Esquinas (Calle La Mar 1209, Miraflores). The Chef is Rodrigo Conroy, possibly the best in Peru. The food is based on fish and seafood; we tried the chicharron de calamar y camarones, with a unique sweet flavor; corvina with broiled choclo and a sauce with Thai and Peruvian influence; and possibly the best tiradito in Lima. These plates could be in the best Parisian Restaurant and would cause a sensation.

The environment and service, on the other hand, were deplorable. The waiters were attentive but rough and a bit dirty. The place lacked air conditioning, even though it is a closed location and the day was hot. The tables and chairs were better suited for a small town cantina, and they only had paper napkins of poor quality. On top of everything, prices were relatively high. What happened to Rodrigo? Why has he exposed his extraordinary cooking to such a poor place?

Illuminata and Salvador