Cafe Secret
HOURS: Tuesday 7:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; Wednesday–Sunday until 9:00 p.m.
PRICES: Appetizers and salads $10–$18; entrées $16–$22; desserts $6–$8.
CUISINE & BEVERAGES: Reasonably authentic, slightly upscale Peruvian cuisine, loads of seafood, most dishes with a nip of spice, in generous servings. Wine list under revision, with international bottlings, including affordable Argentine and South African choices, plus Peruvian beer, chicha morada (corn-based juice).
PICK HITS: Ceviche; Papitas con Yuca a la Huancaina; Causa; Pescado a lo Macho; Chupe de Camarones (special); Alfajores (cookies). Lunch menu includes several empanadas.
NEED TO KNOW: Large portions, with most appetizers and entrées enough to feed two or even three. Check chalkboard for specials. Spacious front patio with heaters is most comfortable seating, weather permitting. (Interior rather too “cozy,” with many tables in a small space.) Breakfast room upstairs. Leisurely service. Three substantial lacto-vegetarian dishes.