For those craving authentic Peruvian cuisine in London without the fine dining price tag, a delightful discovery awaits in the heart of Camden Market. Food enthusiast Emma Fradgley, who is Peruvian herself, went on a quest to find a taste of home and stumbled upon Quinoa Arepa & Inca Chips, a bright stall offering a genuine and affordable slice of Peru.
A Welcome Discovery After a Long Search
Living in Kent, Emma found it rare to encounter Peruvian food, and when she did, it was often attached to expensive restaurant menus. Determined to satisfy a recent craving, she searched online and found Quinoa Arepa & Inca Chips. The price range of £1–£10 on Google was an immediate draw, promising a meal that was both delicious and easy on the wallet.
After a short, four-minute walk from Camden Station, passing a Chinese shop that offered her a free piece of chicken, she found the stall. Situated opposite the canal, its vibrant presence was a welcome sight. "I had never seen a Peruvian stall in England before," she noted, taking a few minutes to admire the menu.
The Arepa Experience: A Perfect Lunch
Upon asking the woman running the stall for a recommendation, the answer was immediate: arepas. Emma opted for the chicken arepa with no spice, costing £11. She was warmly welcomed by the stall owner and her daughter, who were working together, creating a genuine and friendly atmosphere.
When the arepa arrived, it was a masterpiece. The bread, made with organic quinoa and maca cornbread, was a perfect combination of crispy and soft, with a surprising hint of sweetness. Inside, it was generously packed with:
- Kale and spinach
- Black beans
- Avocado
- Plantains
- Red cabbage
- Quinoa grains
Although the menu listed mozzarella, it wasn't prominent, but the dish was declared "very delicious" regardless. Emma, who is not usually a fan of spinach, found herself finishing every last bit. The avocado was perfectly prepared, resembling a proper guacamole, and the entire combination was harmonious. An added bonus is that the arepa is gluten-free, making it a healthy option.
A Slice of Peru in London
The stall owner shared that while some Peruvians question her use of quinoa in the arepa bread, she prefers it for how easily it opens and its health benefits. It's clearly a popular choice, as it's the most-ordered item.
For Emma, this wasn't just a meal; it was a comforting reminder of home. For £11, Quinoa Arepa & Inca Chips offers a genuine, affordable, and utterly satisfying taste of Peruvian cuisine, right in the middle of Camden's bustling market. It's a must-visit for any Londoner or visitor looking to try something new and delicious.
