A Living Archive of Peruvian Soul Food
In Lima’s bohemian Barranco district, chef José del Castillo has opened Isolina, a restaurant that functions as a living archive of traditional Peruvian home cooking. Named after his mother, the venue serves dishes such as layered causas, sharp ceviches, and walnut‑spiced ají de gallina, all drawn from family notebooks rather than modern tasting‑menu experimentation. The concept stands out in a city increasingly obsessed with avant‑garde gastronomy, offering diners a taste of everyday Peruvian flavors. Industry peers, including chef Rodrigo Oliveira, have praised the authenticity and skill behind the venture.
The Fix: Berlin with Billy Wagner
Billy Wagner, a veteran Berlin restaurateur, offers a candid look at the city’s shifting landscape, where soaring rents and tech‑driven investment clash with its historic charm and once‑unbridled libertine vibe. He recounts his two‑decade stay, noting how cheap housing and...