Providence's Best Ethnic Restaurants
Ann & Michael Martini, GoLocalProv Food Editors
Providence's Best Ethnic Restaurants
Providence's Best Ethnic Restaurants
Los Andes, Providence
Would you believe us if we told you that, with all of Providence's wonderful restaurants, Los Andes is the top rated of all of them on Tripadvisor? Well, it's a fact. And we concur. When it comes to Peruvian food there is no other stop you need to make. The Ceviche is to die for...in a good way. It showcases a bounty of fresh seafood tossed with their addictive "Leche de Tigre". This puree of herbs and garlic and peppers adds the perfect zing to this dish and the acid from the lime juice "cooks" the seafood as it marinates. You can actually make a meal out of the Ceviche and the delicious Empanadas. They come with chicken or cheese and the light flaky dough is just right. 903 Chalkstone Ave. 649-4911,
Mi Ranchito, Providence
One of the truths of the hospitality industry in Providence is that the Guatemalan community in the city makes up a disproportionately large percentage of the restaurant workers in the city. It would stand to reason, then, that we would get an exceptional Guatemalan restaurant and Mi Ranchito is that spot. This cozy restaurant features bright flavors and regional twists on foods you already know. Their fajitas aren't to be missed. The homemade tortillas are some of the best we've had and spice on the chicken was delicious. The house fried plantains were delicious also. If this is Guatemalan, we are hooked! 1516 Westminster St. 331-6584
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Not Just Snacks, Providence
Our Indian selection is another one you may miss while driving down Hope Street. You don't want to miss what’s going on inside. The oddly named Not Just Snacks is some of the best Indian food we've had in these parts. We have yet to have a dish that was less than we expected. Everything from the naan breads to the curries to the kababs is consistently fresh and delicious. We could stuff ourselves on the naan alone. The four different varieties keep us coming back again and again. The Biryani is also an interesting choice with aromatic Basmati rice and your choice of protein accented by herbs, raisins and cashews. It’s very good. 833 Hope St. 831-1150
Ebisu, Providence
Our Asian selection is a spot along the Providence and Cranston line that we were introduced to through a chef friend. He raved about the authentic flavors and textures of the Japanese cuisine. He raved about the miso soup. And he raved about the Shabu Shabu. The Shabu Shabu you ask? Why yes! This fun Japanese version of hot-pot cooking has the diners swishing (the loose translation of "Shabu") fresh veggies and meats in flavored broths to quickly cook them and then dip them in a variety of sauces. The "citrusy" Ponzu sauce is a favorite. On the more traditional side, the Satay and Gyoza are some of our favorites anywhere. 38 Pontiac Ave. 270-7500
Abyssinia, Providence
Our world tour of Providence ends on the continent of Africa and, specifically, in Ethiopia. Ethiopian cuisine got a look nationally with Chef Marcus Samuelsson featured prominently on several cooking competition shows. Locally, Abyssinia does a wonderful job of bringing the flavors and culture of Ethiopia to Wickenden Street. This quaint locale is the perfect setting for a foray into Ethiopian food. One thing to know: this is food that is made to be eaten by hand. The flatbread is perfect to tear and scoop the deliciousness on the plates. The Doro Wat was some of the tastiest chicken we've tasted in some time. 333 Wickenden St. 454-1412
