CityView Magazine

38 Januar y 2023 A time of discovery Hungry for something new? Try Nayarit-style seafood, authentic Peruvian dishes, a slice of nostalgia or a 'Pig in a Puppy' STORY AND PHOTOS BY JANET GIBSON GOOD EATS A new year brings inspiration on many fronts. To look and feel our very best. To become more open to life's possibilities. To be bold and explore what's "out there." Fortunately, when it comes to nearby dining experiences, there really is something for everyone — including a few quirky or delightful surprises. Here are some recent discoveries. Seafood bounty and more Word-of-mouth about La Perla has been overwhelmingly positive, with many locals welcoming the chance to savor the inspired cuisine of Nayarit, a western state of Mexico known for its fresh seafood. Translated "the pearl," La Perla opened on Nov. 1 in the former El Burrito space near e Fresh Market. e restaurant owners and staff are the same, but the concept is different. An undersea-themed decor invites customers and serves as a preview of coming attractions. A bar occupies one side of the dining room; the managers were hopeful about receiving their liquor license within days. An extensive menu features shrimp, crab legs, clams, octopus, lobster, salmon and other fresh fish. ere are also plenty of options for non-seafood eaters, including a flavorful ribeye steak and the highly recommended beef or chicken fajitas, plus burritos and enchiladas. Several lunch specials are under $11. e menu also entices with several types of ceviche, seafood that's been cured in lime juice and punctuated with tomato and onion and a hint of spice. I started with shrimp ceviche, large enough to share, beautifully presented in a white bowl and topped with cucumber and a fan of fresh avocado slices ($18.99). e authentic 7 Seas Stew, a soothing tomato-based broth with just the right amount of kick, is chockful of prawns (yes, those are fish eyes staring back at you, plus heads, tails and tentacles, too); smaller peeled shrimp; clams, crab and lobster in the shell; and other seafood ($27.99). In an interview with Jose Salcido, an attentive and thoughtful manager, he tells me that the kitchen staff will remove the shells and other parts on request. e portions were so generous, I ended up taking about three-quarters of the food home with me — and enjoyed more delightful meals over the next few days. Find La Perla Cuisine of Nayarit at 310 Glensford Drive, Fayetteville. Hours: 11 a.m.- 9:30 p.m. Monday-ursday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; noon-9 p.m. Sunday. Reservations are accepted. 910-263-8825 Peruvian home cooking A sign for Gabriella's in downtown Dunn announces that the restaurant serves Peruvian, Italian and American specialties. La Perla features several types of ceviche, including shrimp, which is large enough to share.

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