A Foodie’s Guide to Uma Cantina Peruana: Dishes, Drinks and Ambiance.

February 6th, 2025

If you’re looking for authentic Peruvian flavors served with a touch of elegance and flair, Uma Cantina Peruana is the place to be. Nestled in Aventura, this upscale yet welcoming restaurant blends classic Peruvian dishes with contemporary techniques, making it a hotspot for food lovers and adventurous diners alike.

I had the chance to explore a thoughtfully curated tasting menu, complete with fresh seafood, bold spices, and show-stopping cocktails. While I only tried one item from each section of the menu, I couldn’t help but admire the other beautifully plated dishes that passed by our table. However, when it came to drinks —we made sure to try them all.

The Basics:

• 📍 Location: 16395 Biscayne Blvd, North Miami Beach, 33160
• 🍽 Cuisine: Peruvian with Japanese fusion influences
• 💰 Price Range: $$ – $$$
• 🍸 Alcohol: Yes, including signature cocktails, wine, and prosecco
• 📅 Reservations: Recommended for peak hours

First Impressions:

The ambiance at Uma Cantina Peruana is just as carefully curated as its menu, offering an immersive dining experience that blends modern elegance with coastal Peruvian influences.

A Striking Interior Design

Upon entering, the dramatic lighting and deep, moody tones immediately set the scene for an intimate yet lively atmosphere. The backlit bar is an absolute showstopper, showcasing an array of vibrant spirits and glassware, while the ceiling is adorned with intricate metal fish sculptures, creating an oceanic feel that connects back to Peru’s rich seafood culture.

The thoughtful decor choices, from the soft, ambient lighting to the plush seating, make Uma an ideal setting for a romantic date, a chic night out, or a gathering with fellow food lovers. Despite the high-energy environment, the space still maintains an air of sophistication and exclusivity.

With stunning aesthetics and an electric yet refined vibe, Uma Cantina Peruana isn’t just about the food—it’s about the experience.

Plato Fuerte (Main Course Selections)

Since I was only sampling one dish per section, I chose wisely—and each dish delivered an experience worth talking about.

What We Tried:

🔥 Ceviche Clásico ($24.00) – A Citrusy Wake-Up Call

Uma’s ceviche clásico wasn’t just a dish—it was a celebration of freshness. Made with corvina fish imported from Peru’s Pacific coast, it was bathed in a fiery leche de tigre marinade that packed bright citrus but balanced the perfect level of acidity. The crunch of red onion, nuttiness of choclo (Peruvian corn), and velvety soft sweet potato balanced the tangy punch, creating a dish that woke up my taste buds in the best way possible.

🦪 Conchas Batayaki ($29.00) – A Sweet, Spicy, and Savory Dream

These seared scallops were topped with Dinamite sauce, a creamy and slightly spicy topping that amplified their natural sweetness. Served with chalaquita (a fresh salsa) and sweet potato, the dish struck a perfect balance of umami, brightness, and caramelized depth. The scallops were perfectly cooked, with a beautiful sear and melt-in-your-mouth texture. If you’re a scallop lover, this is the one to get.

🦆 Arroz Chiclayana ($34.00) – Comfort Food, Elevated

A Peruvian take on fried rice, this dish combined succulent duck breast with cilantro-infused rice, avocado, egg, squash, choclo, and chalaca. The duck was tender with a crisp sear, while the rice was herbaceous and aromatic. Every bite had a layered complexity, with the earthy duck, bright cilantro, and fresh salsa working together beautifully. It was hearty, flavorful, and packed with textural contrast, making it one of the most satisfying dishes of the night.

What We Didn’t:

🍣 Lima Roll ($22.00) – A Sushi Fusion We Wish We Tried

This Japanese-Peruvian fusion roll blended the creamy textures of salmon, cream cheese, and avocado with crispy bread crumbs, topped with rocoto aioli and eel sauce. It looked like the perfect combination of crunch, heat, and umami richness, and we regretted not ordering it. Next time, it’s definitely on the list!

🥩 Anticucho de Corazón ($28.00) – A Peruvian Classic We Wanted to Try

A dish deeply rooted in Peruvian street food culture, this grilled beef heart skewer looked incredibly tender and full of bold, smoky flavors. Though we didn’t get a taste, it’s definitely something I’d try on a future visit.

🍝 Pasta Negra con Langostinos ($36.00) – A Bold, Umami-Packed Dish We Missed

While we didn’t get a chance to try this dish, it looked incredibly rich and decadent. The squid ink pasta, infused with a lobster base and topped with shrimp, parmesan cheese, lime, and cilantro, seemed like the perfect combination of bold umami flavors and delicate seafood sweetness.

Postre (Dessert)

🍮 Suspiro Limeño ($16.00) – Sweet, Silky, and Oh-So-Satisfying

This dulce de leche custard, topped with fluffy meringue, was the perfect way to end the meal. The custard was luxuriously smooth, rich, and full of caramelized sweetness, while the airy meringue added a light contrast. Every bite felt like a spoonful of pure indulgence, making this a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Bebemos (Drinks) – We Tried Them All

🍸 Lima Moon – The Star of the Show

If you want a drink that’s more than just a drink, order the Lima Moon. It arrived inside a smoked cage, which was dramatically lifted to release a fragrant cloud of smoky aroma. The cocktail itself was fruity and aromatic, featuring lychee on top, adding a subtle floral note to the overall experience. The contrast of smokiness and sweetness made this a must-try, and it’s easily one of the most Instagram-worthy cocktails I’ve ever had.

🍊 Chilcano Toronjita – A Refreshing Citrus Kick

A Peruvian classic with a twist, this Chilcano featured pisco and ginger ale, with an added grapefruit infusion for a zesty, slightly bitter contrast. It was bright, bubbly, and incredibly refreshing, pairing well with lighter seafood dishes. This was the perfect cocktail for those who love crisp, citrus-forward drinks with just the right amount of effervescence.

🥂 Prosecco – Classic & Crisp

A glass of Prosecco was the perfect way to cleanse the palate between bites. Its effervescence cut through the richness of the dishes, making it an excellent companion to seafood and creamy sauces. Simple, classic, and always a good choice.

Final Thoughts: Worth the Visit?

Even though I only tried one dish per section, every item I sampled was executed beautifully, and the ones I didn’t try looked just as enticing. The drinks were expertly crafted, each offering a unique experience—whether it was the theatrical Lima Moon, the citrusy Chilcano Toronjita, or the classic Prosecco, every sip felt intentional and well-balanced.

UMA Cantina Peruana. photo by McKaela Lulic

Would I return? Absolutely. From the high-quality ingredients to the elevated cocktails and immersive ambiance, Uma Cantina Peruana is more than just a meal—it’s an experience.

📍 If you’re in the area, make a reservation—this is a place worth experiencing for yourself.