Upon entering Rio’s D’Sudamerica, one would never imagine this restaurant was formerly a simple Laundromat. Its subtle exterior is nothing compared to what is waiting for you on the inside. The colorful atmosphere and its unusually high ceiling, gives the restaurant not only an alluring vibe but a comforting one as well. Hand-painted murals surround the walls, each of them representing Brazil, Argentina and Perú, such as Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro, a tile art of Machu Picchu and an Argentinean style mural on the second floor of the restaurant. Since Rio’s D’Sudamerica is only open in the evenings, the candles bring the murals to life and the low lighting creates a more intimate setting.
Having grown up in Chicago’s neighborhood of Bucktown, owner Dino Perez felt it would be a great location for the restaurant. “Bucktown is ideal for ethnic restaurants, it’s really blossomed in the last ten to fifteen years.”
Rio’s D’Sudamerica has been in business for a year and a half and it took a long time to complete. “We had a vision of what we wanted to do,” states Perez “but we made some changes. We wanted to put murals on the walls and we wanted to make sure that the ceilings were high to give it a more open feel, and we pulled it off.” Like every difficult project, however, there were trials and errors. “The trick is that you have to make adjustments,” added Perez.
Their signature dishes include some of the more traditional Peruvian cuisine such as Ceviche (chunks of raw fish, sliced onion, and chili marinated in lime juice), and Lomo Saltado (sautéed steak with onions, potatoes and tomatoes), Borderhouse Steaks, empanadas and paellas. Although their menu is predominately Peruvian, they also find a way to fuse their dishes together. “Some of the steaks and empanadas are Argentinean and some steaks are marinated Brazilian style.” Of course, with every dinner there must be a beverage to accompany it and in Rio’s D’Sudamerica, mojitos are the most popular drink, followed by Sangria, Caipirinhas and Pisco Sour.
Rio’s D’Sudamerica also offers live entertainment on a periodic basis. They feature Salsa, Brazilian dancers, Tango groups, and Folkloric music; an excellent way for customers to enjoy their South American experience to the fullest.
For more Information:
2010 W. Armitage Ave Chicago, IL. 60647 Tel: 773-276-0170
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