The American Dream Mall in East Rutherford is home to many different entertainment and dining experiences. But there’s only one spot that offers authentic Peruvian cuisine in a fun, party-like atmosphere. That spot is Jarana, a new concept that combines woks, charcoal grilling, and rustic presentations.
Jarana – which means party in Peru – aims to showcase the diversity of Peruvian cuisine. The 8,081-sq foot space is located on the third floor of the mall and seats 200 guests. It boasts an open floor plan with a “a welcoming and playful atmosphere,” according to Executive Chef Jesus Delgado. The restaurant’s oversized mural and key focal points present “a vibrant, buzzing energy,” he adds. “A large, strategically placed bar is the beating heart of the restaurant, facilitating a communal and festive atmosphere.”
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A Fiesta of Flavors
Jarana offers an authentic and approachable take on Peruvian cuisine with open-fire grilling. The team consciously chose to use this charcoal grilling method as well as a gas rotisserie. This showcases “Peruvian cooking in its rawest form,” Jesus explains.
Signature menu dishes include the shareable half chicken marinated Lima-style. This popular Peruvian dish offers a balance of smoke and spice with crispy skin. Other highlights include fresh ceviche, anticuchos (grilled meats), and stews. They also have Chinese Peruvian (Chifa) specialties like saltados (stir fry) and chaufa (fried rice). Their regional desserts range from alfajores (cookies) and picarones (squash and sweet potato donuts) to mazamorra morada (purple corn pudding).
In particular, Jesus says his favorite menu item is the churracsco chifero. This dish is stir-fried rice with grilled anticuchero churrasquito, fried egg, sweet plantains, spicy sauce, and pickled veggies.
About The Restaurant
Jarana is the product of Acurio International, a subsidiary of the company founded in Perú by Chef Gastón Acurio. Acurio International currently has four different restaurants operating in the US. Besides Jarana, they are responsible for Tanta Chicago, La Mar Miami, and La Mar San Francisco.
Visit Jarana at the American Dream mall (1 American Dream Wy in East Rutherford). Look for them online to learn more.
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Jarana FAQs
Yes, they do accept reservations.
Yes, they have gluten-free options.
Jarana offers vegetarian options, yes.
They do offer takeout, yes.
No, they do not offer delivery.
Yes, they serve alcohol.
They do not have a kids’ menu, no.
All Photos: © Liz Clayman
