Whenever people think of Peru, the first things to come to mind might be llamas, alpacas, Machu Picchu or maybe even Disney’s classic, “The Emperor’s New Groove.”

Unfortunately people don’t often think of the delicious food derived from this unpopular culture. Waffle King / Koricancha (ko·ri·can·cha) is unique alternative for those who do identify the food with the country. This American/Peruvian restaurant might not be the most popular in Sacramento, but the restaurant receives high praises on Yelp and Urbanspoon and other food rating sites.

The main dishes include a lot of starch (which is never a bad thing), along with some kind of meat and sauce, or dressing if you will.

Someone who happens to order “seco de carne” (cilantro beef stew), might taste the natural mixing of cilantro, spinach, garlic and onions. Each ingredient does its part to the food but does not overwhelm the taste of tender beef.

Along with these authentic Peruvian dishes come authentic Peruvian drinks. This restaurant carries Inca Kola and Kola Inglesa. They also serve chicha morada, the pre-colonial drink that dates before the Inca Empire, made from purple corn, pineapple, lime (or lemon) and sugar.

Diners who decide that the colorful Peruvian dishes might not be for them also have a full American menu offering, breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The best part of this restaurant is the food, hands down. Whether it’s American or Peruvian, the food fails to disappoint.

[stextbox id=”info”]Waffle King/Koricancha

$$

2751 Fulton Ave

Sacramento

7a.m. to 8 p.m.

Tuesday through Sunday.