10 Must-Try Dishes At Fusion Peruvian Grill San Mateo: The Chef’s Journey From Dishwasher To Culinary Star
The vibrant culinary landscape of San Mateo has a definite star, and as of December 2025, it continues to be Fusion Peruvian Grill. This downtown eatery stands out not just for its incredible, flavor-packed dishes but also for the inspiring, authentic story of its owner and chef, Pedro Zerpa. The restaurant successfully bridges the gap between traditional Peruvian comfort food and a modern, innovative dining experience, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a true taste of the Bay Area's diverse food scene.
The concept of "fusion" here is more than a marketing term; it's a reflection of Peru's own rich culinary history—a blend of Indigenous, Spanish, African, Chinese, and Japanese influences. Fusion Peruvian Grill takes this heritage and gives it a fresh, local twist, serving up generous portions of hot, tasty, and reasonably priced dishes that have earned it a loyal following among local diners and Bay Area foodies alike.
The Culinary Journey of Chef Pedro Zerpa
The heart and soul of Fusion Peruvian Grill is its dedicated owner, Chef Pedro Zerpa. His journey is a classic immigrant success story, deeply rooted in hard work and a passion for his home country’s cuisine.
- Origin: Immigrant from Peru.
- Early Career Start: Began his career in the restaurant industry in the most foundational role—as a dishwasher.
- Professional Ascent: Through sheer determination and skill, he worked his way up the kitchen hierarchy in San Francisco.
- Experience: Spent a dedicated 15 years as a chef in a San Francisco restaurant, honing his craft and developing his unique culinary voice.
- Entrepreneurial Leap: Ready to strike out on his own and share his vision for Peruvian cuisine, he found the perfect space in San Mateo to open Fusion Peruvian Grill.
- Philosophy: His menu is a testament to his belief in authentic Peruvian flavors, presented with a modern, fresh approach that appeals to a diverse Bay Area clientele.
10 Essential Dishes That Define Fusion Peruvian Grill
Fusion Peruvian Grill is famous for its extensive menu, which includes everything from classic street food appetizers to rich, hearty seafood and pasta dishes. To truly understand the "fusion" concept, you need to explore these signature plates that showcase the best of Peruvian cuisine with a contemporary edge.
1. The Ceviche Trio: Tradicional, A la Crema de Rocoto, and Virgen
Ceviche is the undisputed national dish of Peru, and Fusion Peruvian Grill offers a spectacular sampler. The Tradicional style features a classic Northern aji limo reduction, providing a clean, bright citrus kick. For those who like heat, the A la Crema de Rocoto ceviche is marinated in a creamy rocoto pepper sauce, adding a beautiful orange hue and a spicy, fruity flavor. Finally, the Virgen offers a unique, lighter take, demonstrating the versatility of the dish.
2. Lomo Saltado: The Ultimate Comfort Fusion
No Peruvian menu is complete without Lomo Saltado, a perfect example of Chifa, or Chinese-Peruvian fusion cuisine. This dish features marinated strips of beef stir-fried with onions, tomatoes, and French fries, typically served over rice. It’s a savory, satisfying, and deeply flavorful plate that showcases the wok-cooking techniques brought by Chinese immigrants.
3. Arroz con Mariscos (Peruvian Paella)
Often referred to as Peruvian Paella, the Arroz con Mariscos is a rich, saffron-infused rice dish packed with fresh seafood (mariscos). Unlike its Spanish cousin, the Peruvian version is often creamier and is intensely seasoned with a blend of Peruvian peppers and spices, making it a flavorful seafood experience.
4. Pasta Negra: A Seafood Lover’s Dream
A true testament to the restaurant’s "fusion" identity is the Pasta Negra. This dish features squid ink pasta tossed with a medley of fresh seafood and a rich, savory sauce. It’s a sophisticated, modern plate that combines Italian pasta traditions with the bold seafood flavors characteristic of the Peruvian coast.
5. Pecado a lo Macho
The name translates roughly to "Sinful, Macho-Style," and it lives up to the hype. Pecado a lo Macho is a deeply satisfying seafood platter, often featuring a fried white fish fillet smothered in a creamy, spicy seafood sauce packed with shrimp, calamari, and mussels. It is rich, decadent, and a favorite among those who enjoy a hearty seafood meal.
6. The Fusion Sampler
For first-time visitors or those who want a taste of everything, the Fusion Sampler is the ideal choice. It typically includes a variety of classic Peruvian appetizers, such as Crispy Yucca (fried cassava root), Anticuchos (marinated and grilled beef heart skewers), and Choritos a la Chalaca (mussels topped with a fresh salsa of corn, onion, and lime).
7. Fusion Salmon
This dish exemplifies the modern twist on the menu. The Fusion Salmon features a perfectly cooked salmon fillet, likely served with a unique Peruvian-inspired sauce or a side of flavorful, seasoned rice and vegetables. It caters to a contemporary palate while incorporating the vibrant spices of the Andes.
8. Picante de Mariscos
A spicy seafood stew, Picante de Mariscos offers a comforting and warming experience. It’s a flavorful blend of fresh shellfish simmered in a rich, slightly spicy sauce made from Peruvian chili peppers. This is the perfect dish for a chilly evening, showcasing the depth of flavor Peruvian cuisine can achieve.
9. Arroz Chaufa
Another staple of the Chifa tradition, Arroz Chaufa is Peruvian fried rice. Unlike standard fried rice, the Peruvian version is characterized by a distinctive smoky flavor from the wok (chaufar means "to fry rice" in Cantonese) and is often made with a blend of soy sauce, ginger, and Peruvian spices, available with chicken, beef, or seafood.
10. Crispy Sweet Potato Strips and Peruvian-Style Beans
Don't overlook the side dishes, which are often the unsung heroes of Peruvian comfort food. The Crispy Sweet Potato Strips offer a sweet and starchy contrast to the savory main courses. Paired with the hearty, flavorful Peruvian-style beans, they provide a deep, authentic taste of the country's traditional side offerings.
Topical Authority: The Pillars of Peruvian Cuisine at Fusion Grill
To truly understand the depth of Fusion Peruvian Grill's menu, it helps to recognize the key ingredients and techniques that form the foundation of Peruvian cooking. The restaurant masterfully utilizes these entities to create its signature flavors:
- Aji Peppers: The soul of Peruvian spice. Varieties like Aji Limo (used in ceviche), Aji Amarillo (the yellow pepper that forms the base of many sauces), and Rocoto (a round, hot pepper) are essential.
- Leche de Tigre: The citrus-based marinade used to "cook" the fish in ceviche; a powerful, restorative elixir.
- Potatoes and Yucca: Peru is home to thousands of potato varieties. Dishes like Papa a la Huancaína (potatoes in a creamy cheese sauce) and Crispy Yucca are staples.
- Canchita (Giant Corn): The large, crunchy corn kernels served with ceviche and other dishes, providing a satisfying texture contrast.
- Chifa Tradition: The fusion of Chinese and Peruvian cooking, exemplified by Lomo Saltado and Arroz Chaufa, which uses techniques like stir-frying and ingredients like soy sauce and ginger.
- Mariscos (Seafood): Given Peru's long Pacific coastline, fresh seafood is paramount, featuring heavily in dishes like Pecado a lo Macho and Arroz con Mariscos.
Fusion Peruvian Grill is more than just a restaurant; it’s a cultural experience and a shining example of the San Mateo dining scene. Chef Pedro Zerpa’s dedication to authentic flavors and his innovative approach to traditional recipes ensure that every visit is a journey to the culinary heart of Peru.
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