ATLReview
photo credit: Amy Sinclair
Tio Lucho’s
Included In
Never underestimate the power of a sandwich to open doors. In this case, the heavy glass doors of Tio Lucho’s, which started as a tiny pop-up serving a single hit item, the Pollo Anticuchero Sanguche. The popularity of that juicy chicken thigh sandwich led to this first brick-and-mortar location in Poncey Highland, and it’s now served up alongside brilliant takes on Peruvian classics and other tasty regional dishes we never knew we needed.
When you walk into Tio Lucho’s, take heed of the giant, colorful mural that says “En Atlanta Come Se Rico” (Atlanta eats rich). With Atlanta’s ever-evolving food scene that statement seems spot on, but it’s especially true at Tio Lucho’s, where the flavors are as bold as the vibrant setting. If you’re there during the day, when natural light streams through the floor-to-ceiling windows, the obsessive house plant enthusiast in you will appreciate the greenery that sits atop or drapes over every conceivable surface. It’s possible that the harmonious interior, complete with wooden panels on the ceiling that mimic ocean waves, will leave you in a relaxed state of zen that you’ve only ever heard about from your yogi ex.
photo credit: Amy Sinclair
We aren’t the only ones who love the colorful, casual space as there’s always a crowd inside—everyone from suits grabbing lunch to multigen groups intensely bickering over what to order based on which dishes will be the most photogenic to share for a Sunday brunch post. You’ll feel at home here, as if you actually were lucky enough to have an uncle named Lucho, and he was cooking up a bomb-ass meal after a day at the beach.
Since the menu is inspired by the chef’s childhood in coastal Peru, you’ll tear into full-flavor seafood-based dishes like Tiradito, Pulpo Anticuchero, and ceviche. And if you get caught up in the moment, you might even feel a sea breeze on your face. The seafood isn’t the only standout (we’re talking about you, juicy Pork Belly Majada De Yuca) as every meal should be capped off with the stickiest, sweetest picarones we’ve had lately. Then, of course, there’s the sandwich that started it all. For a quick lunch, order the still-outstanding Pollo Anticuchero Sanguche, and say thanks for bringing a bit of Peru to the A.
Food Rundown
photo credit: Amy Sinclair
Lomo Saltado
photo credit: Amy Sinclair
Ceviche de Pescado
photo credit: Amy Sinclair
Pisco Sour
photo credit: Brittany Hinson
Jalea
photo credit: Brittany Hinson
Crab Hushpuppies
photo credit: Brittany Hinson
Pork Belly Majado De Yuca
photo credit: Brittany Hinson