Chinitas

Chinitas is authentic Peruvian food in Summerlin, which is a beautiful thing because Vegas needs more Peruvian representation. This isn't Tex-Mex with a Peru label slapped on it—it's the real deal with ceviche, lomo saltado, and aji sauces that'll wake up your taste buds. The happy hour details are check-with-venue territory, but based on the quality and the neighborhood, it's worth investigating.

The Peruvian Food Case

Peruvian cuisine is underrated in Vegas, and Chinitas is doing it right. Their ceviche is fresh and properly acidic, the lomo saltado (Peruvian beef stir-fry) is a perfect balance of savory and umami, and the aji verde sauce is addictive enough that you'll want to put it on everything. The pollo a la brasa (rotisserie chicken) is marinated in Peruvian spices and cooked until the skin is crispy perfection.

What Makes It Authentic

The flavors are legit—you can tell this isn't some fusion experiment, it's Peruvian food made by people who know what it's supposed to taste like. The causas (potato-based dishes), anticuchos (grilled skewers), and papa rellena (stuffed potatoes) are all executed with technique and care. The spice level is real but not overwhelming, and the ingredient quality is noticeably above most casual spots.

Summerlin Location Vibe

Being in Summerlin means you're getting a professional, local crowd that appreciates good food. The space is casual but well-designed, and the service is friendly without being overbearing. It's the kind of neighborhood spot where locals become regulars because the food is consistently good and the prices are fair.

The Happy Hour Unknown

Specific happy hour details weren't widely advertised, which means you should call ahead or check their website/social media. But if they're running specials on pisco sours (Peru's national cocktail) or discounted ceviches, that's absolutely worth your time. The pisco sour is the move regardless—it's tangy, frothy, and strong enough to make you forget you're in the suburbs.

Why You'd Seek This Out

If you're tired of the same rotation of Mexican/Italian/Asian and want something different, Chinitas delivers authentic Peruvian at a level that's hard to find in Vegas. The flavors are complex, the ingredients are quality, and the whole experience feels like you've discovered something special. Whether or not they have a formal happy hour, the regular prices are reasonable enough that it's worth visiting.

Peruvian food is having a moment nationally, and Chinitas is proof that Vegas is paying attention.

Location: Summerlin
Vibe: Authentic Peruvian, neighborhood spot, casual-upscale
Parking: Shopping center lot
Pro tip: Order a pisco sour and the ceviche—if those are good (they are), everything else will be too.