El Pollon

Growing up in Miami I was privileged to enjoy a variety of authentic Latin cuisines. From Cuban Picadillo to Puerto Rican Mofongo, from Mexican Tamales to Peruvian Ceviche and the list goes on. Living in Destin now I miss the diversity that Miami had to offer. Although Destin has plenty of delicious and authentic Mexican restaurants the others were missing until now!

El Pollon is a Peruvian style rotisserie chicken restaurant that recently opened in Destin. While I was a little disappointed that they only served ceviche on the weekends I was still completely stoked to try this place out during the week. This family business is located in the Paradise Key shopping plaza across the parking lot from The Craft Bar and Publix.

Known for traditional Peruvian “Pollo a la Brasa” that is marinated with native Peruvian spices and cooked in the heat of the charcoal of course I had to give it a try. The spices and juices that poured out of the chicken with every bite were absolutely delicious! All the flavors I remember from the authentic Peruvian restaurants back home. The sides are amazingly delicious too. Yuca, Plantains, Peruvian Fried Rice, black beans, rice, and of course French Fries.

The menu caters to a crowd offering options other than authentic fare. Hamburgers, sub sandwiches, chicken wings, and such are on the menu to appeal to those not wanting to venture out of the box. However, I was there to try true Peruvian cuisine, so I was happy to see Lomo Saltado (a popular and authentic dish consisting of tender steak sautéed with onion and tomatoes, served over French fries and a side of white rice) on the menu.

The service was great, the food was delicious, all and all I would say that I will definitely be back to El Pollon. Next time I’ll try dining on the weekend so I can try the Ceviche. It will also be one of my go to stops for delicious take-out.