Peru in Brooklyn

(image from nycgo.com)

Chimu (482 Union Ave- (718)349-1208)$$- Next to Union Pool, the rowdy Williamsburg bar, is a small but not so hidden gem: Chimu.  After much argument about price vs. atmosphere vs. type of food, my boyfriend and I finally agreed upon eating Peruvian, more so out of frustration than anything else.  He wanted to eat something warm and heavy in a relaxed setting and did not want to pay very much.  I immediately picture Friday's.  No.  To Chimu we went.  

We arrived around 7 and the place was nearly deserted.   The lights were low, the candles were plentiful, and the fun Peruvian music was just soft enough.  The service was attentive without being overbearing, and continued to be so even after 8 when Chimu became instantly packed.  

I ordered a glass of house red (it was fine) and he ordered a Pisco Sour which was frothy and much larger than expected.  

I ate the ceviche mixto which was piled high calamari, shrimp, white fish, mussels, onions, cilantro, and even a small crab.  It came with Peruvian corn, sweet potato, and a regular potato.  Additionally, I ordered a side of maduros (fried sweet plantains).  Everything was fresh, well seasoned, and thoughtfully planned out.  Well, everything but the corn which was bland and unnecessary.  

My boyfriend had the Chupe de Camarones, a gigantic creamy soup with large pieces of shrimp and vegetables floating around.  It had a ton of queso fresco, which was not mentioned on the menu but was a happy surprise.  The soup was much bigger than expected and we saw a table next to us splitting it (a wise decision).  He also had a chicken empanada which was very crunchy but kind of greasy, nothing special.  Do not order the soup if your stomach is sensitive.  While it was definitely tasty and very filling, it was perhaps too much cream and cheese (I never thought I would say that) for one recipe.  Perhaps splitting it would be less harsh on the belly.  

Go to Chimu.  Go very, very hungry.  We went hungry and came home with leftovers.  Try everything mentioned above (minus the empanada), the Aji de Gallina, or the Jalea.  Finish it all off with a dulce de leche crepe and I promise you will be wanting to go back very soon after.