Latin-American street fare has landed on King West. Chef Steve Gonzalez (former Chef de Cuisine at Origin, as well as a Top Chef Canada fan favourite) officially unveiled Valdez yesterday to eager diners looking to get a taste of his share-worthy creations.
You’ll notice that the menu is split into four parts: Cevishes, Stuff, More and Dulce Y Algo. Cevishes are meant to share; alternatively, guests can order one of the five items on offer for lonesome indulgence. A definite highlight here is a combination of albacore tuna with the sweetness of tropical fruit, wakame and yuzu, which is then given a kick with accompanying jalapeno.
The Stuff selections are all about fun and flavour, consisting of traditional Latin-American snack foods you might find on the streets of Bogota (where Steve spent many summers). Noteworthy among the Stuff are the Pastel, which are filled with cream cheese and guava paste, then wrapped in a wonton, deep fried, and served up street-style in a paper bag.
If you’re not into sharing, you’ll find entrees listed under More. Valdez steps up its game with a twist on Mexican fajitas that boast trout from Georgetown paired with a fresh take on quinoa. If you’re planning a visit to Valdez in a few days’ time, consider ordering their Adobo pork, which requires 48 hours advanced notice and can satisfy up to eight people.
Dulce Y Algo, of course, is the sweet stuff. All ingredients are chosen from the freshest source possible and reflect the evolving landscape of traditional Latin American cuisine as it’s known today. You’ll also find quite the refined cocktail list, featuring one of the largest selections of Pisco as well as private order tequila and mescal.
Valdez is located at 606 King Street West and is open 5:30pm-10:30pm Monday-Wednesday; late night (food service until midnight) Thursday-Saturday. You’ll also be happy to know Valdez’s spacious rooftop patio will be open from 5:30pm-2am every day. Stay up to date with Valdez on Twitter.
Photos courtesy Valdez