Located in South End near Lowe’s Home Improvement, Yunta is a culinary gem brought to life 2 ½ years ago by Garcia Hospitality, the creators of Viva Chicken, a beloved Peruvian rotisserie chain. Co-owner Bruno Macchiavello, a Peruvian native, moved to Charlotte in the 1980s and learned the restaurant trade at Showmars under the mentorship of founder George Couchell. Building on the success of Viva Chicken, with 16+ locations and counting, Macchiavello and business partner Randy Garcia are redefining Peruvian cuisine with Yunta.
What is Yunta?
Yunta (pronounced “yoon-tah”), meaning “friend” in an ancient Peruvian language, blends Japanese and Peruvian culinary traditions into Nikkei cuisine. This unique fusion began in the late 1800s when Japanese immigrants in Peru combined their culinary heritage with local ingredients. The result is a vibrant, flavorful cuisine gaining global recognition, even inspiring renowned chefs like Nobu Matsuhisa.
The Yunta Experience
At Yunta, expect more than a meal—expect an adventure. This full-service restaurant offers small-plate, tapas-style dining, perfect for exploring their innovative menu. Our Friday night visit with foodie friends Darrick and LaShonna proved this to be the perfect choice for sampling a wide variety of dishes.
Pro Tip: Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekends and lunch hours.
Must-Try Dishes at Yunta
Yuca Balls
Stuffed with Andean Farm Cheese and topped with Aji Carretillero Sauce—a zesty yellow pepper sauce native to Peru—these bright and flavorful bites were a hit.
Ponja Tiradito
Thinly sliced tuna paired with Nikkei Citrus Sauce, avocado, crispy quinoa, and ginger. This Peruvian sashimi perfectly exemplifies Nikkei cuisine, blending fresh Japanese techniques with bold Peruvian flavors.
Beef Anticucho
Skewered filet mignon, also accompanied by Aji Carretillero Sauce. Each tender bite highlighted Yunta’s mastery of seasoning.
Arroz Con Mariscos
A Peruvian seafood risotto, ideal for risotto lovers seeking a rich, creamy dish packed with fresh seafood.
Parillero Maki
A standout sushi roll featuring Ebi Furai (panko-fried jumbo prawns), tuna, avocado, Nikkei chimichurri, and Aji Citrus. The combination of crispy and fresh elements made this roll unforgettable.
Ceviche Clásico
The star of the evening! Made with the catch of the day (mahi), Peruvian corn, red onion, sweet potato, and Leche de Tigre, this classic ceviche is a perfect harmony of acidity and freshness.
What Sets Yunta Apart?
Yunta stands out as one of Charlotte’s few restaurants offering Nikkei cuisine, a unique and flavorful fusion. While it’s perfect for adventurous diners, note that the atmosphere can get lively. If you prefer quieter dining, request a seat away from the DJ.
What’s Next for Garcia Hospitality?
Oshen Sushi: Now open in Colony Place, this family-friendly sushi restaurant offers approachable pricing without compromising quality.
La Lima: Coming soon to South Boulevard and W. Park Ave, this fast-casual Peruvian sandwich shop is set to debut in early 2024.
Final Thoughts
Yunta has earned a permanent spot on our restaurant rotation for its bold flavors, innovative cuisine, and welcoming atmosphere. With no other Nikkei restaurants currently in Charlotte, Yunta offers a rare opportunity to explore a truly special culinary tradition.
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