South American restaurants are some of the most popular culinary venues in Rhode Island’s Blackstone Valley.

Known for their warm hospitality and a unique blend of cultures, South America is a melting pot of indigenous and European influences, with each region developing its own traditional dishes bursting with rich flavors and hearty meals. Experience this diverse food scene and the stories behind them.

Where every flavor tells a story

You can find mouthwatering Brazilian barbecue at Minas in East Providence, with different side dishes and specials each day. Try the traditional feijoada, a stew of black beans with beef and pork.

You can’t go wrong with the food or the view at Shark’s Peruvian Cuisine. Situated on the beautiful Blackstone River,

you will experience the freshest and most authentic Peruvian specialities, combining local ingredients and family recipes. Must-try dishes include the Rellena de Pollo (mashed potatoes marinated aji amarillo with a filling of chicken salad, mayonnaise, fresh avocado and black olives), Bistec a la Pobre (deep fried steak topped with chopped onions, tomatoes and cilantro, served with white rice), and Arroz con Mariscos (Peruvian style seafood paella rice).

Minas Café Brazilian Steakhouse

315 Waterman Avenue East Providence, RI

Minas Café Brazilian Steakhouse captures the simple splendor and tradition of ancient cooking methods and…

Shark's Peruvian Cuisine

1420 Broad Street Central Falls, RI

Experience the flavors and ambiance of Peru in a beautiful waterfront setting without packing your luggage!…

A very popular Colombian restaurant is La Casona, where you can try the traditional dish of Plato Montanero, which is beef, pork, chicken or ground beef with rice, beans, chorizo, fried pork rinds, sweet plantain, corn arepa and egg. A “quick food” favorite is Salchipapas, a mixture of cut potatoes and chopped hot dogs with a choice of sauces.

El Paisa is the first Colombian restaurant in Rhode Island. Popular menu items are the rotisserie chicken (on Saturdays and Sundays only). Reviewers give a thumbs up to the fried fish and the grilled steak. Be sure to check out their beautiful new patio.