Kantu Peruvian Cuisine Restaurant

- 105-07 Metropolitan Ave, Forest Hills, NY 11375

Welcome to Kantu Peruvian Cuisine, your premier destination for an authentic taste of Peru right here in the heart of Queens, New York. Nestled on Forest Hills' "Restaurant Row," Kantu—which translates to "happiness" in the Incan language—is more than just a restaurant; it’s a full-sensory culinary journey into one of the world's most dynamic and flavorful cuisines. Combining the bold, fresh ingredients of Peru with a comfortable, stylish "bar and grill" ambiance, Kantu has quickly become a beloved local gem for New Yorkers seeking a dining experience that is both authentic and exciting.

Peruvian cuisine is celebrated globally for its fusion of indigenous traditions with Spanish, African, Chinese, and Japanese influences. At Kantu, the menu brilliantly showcases this rich cultural tapestry, offering everything from classic seafood staples to hearty grilled meats. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of Peruvian food or a first-timer eager to explore its depths, Kantu Peruvian Cuisine offers a lively, welcoming atmosphere to savor the best of South American flavors.

At its core, Kantu is a place of community, proudly identifying as both Latino-owned and women-owned. The restaurant's design—featuring replicas of Incan art and pottery, tropical flowers, and a modern, trendy aesthetic—creates an intimate yet festive setting. It's a perfect spot for everything from a quick bite during lunch to a lively dinner with friends or a cozy date night, all enhanced by a focus on great service and genuine hospitality. The inviting ambiance makes every visit feel like a special occasion.

Kantu Peruvian Cuisine is conveniently situated in the vibrant neighborhood of Forest Hills, Queens, making it easily accessible for residents across New York City. Its address at 105-07 Metropolitan Ave places it right on a busy and popular thoroughfare known for its diverse dining options.

For Queens locals, the location on Metropolitan Avenue is a prime spot that offers a perfect mix of neighborhood charm and destination appeal. The area is well-serviced, with various public transportation options nearby, though it is best to check specific transit routes. For those driving, the restaurant provides amenities for both free and paid street parking, which can be a valuable convenience in this popular area of Queens.

Accessibility is a priority at Kantu, ensuring all New Yorkers can enjoy the dining experience. The venue provides a wheelchair accessible entrance, making it easy to navigate. Furthermore, the restaurant offers wheelchair accessible seating and a gender-neutral restroom, confirming its commitment to being a welcoming and inclusive space for the entire community.

Kantu Peruvian Cuisine offers a comprehensive range of services and dining options to meet the needs of every patron throughout the week.

• Dining Options: The full menu is available for Lunch and Dinner. Kantu also offers a delightful Weekend Brunch and a Traditional Peruvian Breakfast, providing creative options that go beyond the usual brunch fare.
• Takeout and Delivery: For a convenient meal at home or in the office, the restaurant provides both Takeout and Delivery, including no-contact delivery and curbside pickup options.
• Catering: Kantu offers full Catering services, bringing the authentic flavors of Peru to your private or corporate events.
• Reservations: Guests can easily plan their visit as the restaurant Accepts Reservations, which is highly recommended during peak hours, especially on weekends when the atmosphere is at its liveliest.
• Full Bar Service: A well-stocked Bar Onsite offers a wide selection of Alcohol, Beer, Hard Liquor, and Wine, with an emphasis on handcrafted Cocktails—especially their renowned Pisco Sours.
• Specials and Happy Hour: The restaurant features a dedicated Lunch Special menu on weekdays and offers both Happy Hour Drinks and Happy Hour Food.
• Family and Kids' Amenities: Kantu is Good for Kids, offering a dedicated Kids' Menu and providing High Chairs for younger guests.
• Atmosphere and Hospitality: Guests can enjoy Table Service in a Cozy and Trendy atmosphere that is Family-Friendly, LGBTQ+ Friendly, and a Transgender Safe Space.
• Additional Amenities: Free Wi-Fi and clean Restrooms are available for the comfort of all diners.

Kantu Peruvian Cuisine stands out from other dining options in Queens thanks to its dedication to authentic cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. Here are some of its key features:

• Authentic Peruvian Cuisine: The restaurant offers genuine Peruvian flavors, with a diverse menu covering coastal seafood, Andean stews, and Chifa-style fusion. Specialties include Lomo Saltado, a highly-rated favorite, and the fresh, citrus-marinated Ceviche.
• Excellent Bar Program: Kantu is famous for its cocktails, particularly the national drink of Peru, the Pisco Sour. They offer classic versions as well as variations infused with passion fruit, mango, or strawberry. The bar also carries an array of exotic fruit-infused Pisco macerados.
• Vibrant Atmosphere with Live Music: The dining experience is often accompanied by Live Music, creating a truly festive and energetic environment that customers love for celebrations.
• Outstanding Seafood and Grilled Meats: The menu features high-quality Steaks and grilled items, such as the Entraña a la Parrilla and the magnificent Parrillada Fiera—a grand meat and seafood platter. Seafood options range from Pez Espada a la Parrilla to the mixed seafood paella, Arroz con Mariscos w/ Lobster Tail.
• "Ceviche Bar" Expertise: As a Seafood Restaurant, Kantu has a dedicated Ceviche Bar featuring several varieties, including Ceviche de Pescado (the national dish), Ceviche Mixto, and Leche de Tigre.
• Comfort Food and Healthy Options: The menu successfully balances hearty Comfort Food, like the traditional Seco de Cabrito (Goat Stew available on weekends) and Aji de Gallina, with healthy choices, Vegetarian Options, and a Quinoa Salad.
• Great Desserts: Customers rave about the decadent house-made desserts, including the Aguaymanto Cheesecake and Lucumisu, featuring exotic Peruvian fruits.
• Fast and Attentive Service: The staff is frequently praised in reviews for being warm, attentive, and providing Fast Service, ensuring a pleasant and efficient dining experience.

To plan your visit or place an order, you can reach Kantu Peruvian Cuisine using the following information:

Address: 105-07 Metropolitan Ave, Forest Hills, NY 11375, USA

Phone: (347) 531-0873

Choosing Kantu Peruvian Cuisine is an investment in a truly memorable meal and a unique cultural experience in Queens. As a premier Peruvian restaurant and bar & grill, it masterfully blends authentic, vibrant flavors with a modern, stylish setting.

What truly sets Kantu apart is the breadth and quality of its menu. The Lomo Saltado, featuring filet mignon chunks perfectly sautéed with soy sauce, onions, and tomatoes, served with French fries and rice, is consistently rated as a must-try. The freshness and execution of the various Ceviche preparations are unparalleled in the neighborhood, embodying the essence of Peru’s coastal cuisine. The generous portions and high quality of their grilled offerings, from the Entraña a la Parrilla to the spectacular Parrillada Fiera, solidify its reputation as a top-tier steak and grill house.

Beyond the food, the vibrant bar scene, anchored by their expertly crafted Pisco Sours and a selection of exotic macerados, makes Kantu a destination for great drinks. When combined with the cozy, festive atmosphere and the high possibility of enjoying live music, Kantu transforms a simple dinner into a true celebration. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick lunch special, enjoying a hearty weekend brunch, or planning a full dinner experience, Kantu Peruvian Cuisine delivers a piece of "happiness"—its namesake—with every plate and every visit. For New Yorkers looking to explore the most exciting side of Latin American gastronomy without leaving the borough, Kantu is a truly golden find in Forest Hills.

Kantu Peruvian Cuisine Restaurant

105-07 Metropolitan Ave, Forest Hills, NY 11375, USA