By reporter Steven Smalley
The old Szmania’s location at 34th and McGraw is open for business, but don’t tell anyone. Corino Bonjrada, owner of Mondello Ristorante Italiano, and his wife, Ana Sofia Ponce de Leon opened the Peruvian inspired Pink Salt restaurant in the Village Friday night. A lively crowd already occupied the space that smelled of smoky flavors infused into one of the South American dishes. We could go on and on, but no. It’s a soft opening. Let’s not over-hype the place.
This reporter had ceviche to start and a sliced beef tenderloin entrée Peruvian-style. Add to that a Peruvian-influenced Manhattan and the meal was complete.
Okay, that’s all you’ll get from us. Except, notice the wall of lighted Peruvian pink salt bricks lining the back-bar. It makes a real statement as you come in the front door. Enjoy.