This little place is a gem. Starting with the decor which was very traditional and made the place so cute. Our waitress Jackie was so sweet and nice and attentive. Food was exceptional and very reasonably priced. Portions were big enough to share.
Overview
Nestled in the heart of North Arlington, New Jersey, Myrna Peruvian Restaurant at 601 Ridge Rd is a hidden gem that brings the rich, colorful flavors of Peru straight to the table. From the moment you step inside, there’s an unmistakable warmth-a blend of savory aromas, friendly chatter, and the feeling that you’re about to enjoy something special. I first discovered this spot while looking for an authentic South American dining experience, and it quickly became one of my go-to places for comfort food that tells a story with every bite.
What immediately stands out is how the restaurant captures Peru’s culinary heritage through both presentation and flavor. Peruvian cuisine is famous for its fusion of indigenous ingredients and international influences-from Spanish to Japanese-and Myrna’s menu celebrates that diversity beautifully. Dishes like lomo saltado, a hearty beef stir-fry with onions and tomatoes served over rice and fries, showcase the perfect marriage of bold seasoning and homestyle cooking. The ceviche, made with fresh fish marinated in lime juice, red onions, and a hint of chili, tastes as if it came straight from the coastal markets of Lima.
From my experience, what sets Myrna’s apart is its consistency. Every visit feels personal, almost as if the kitchen knows exactly how you like your meal. The staff members are attentive and genuinely passionate about what they serve, often taking time to explain the origins of the dishes or recommend pairings. Once, while chatting with the chef, I learned that the sauces-like the creamy huancaína or the bright ají verde-are all prepared daily using traditional methods passed down through generations. That attention to authenticity isn’t something you find just anywhere.
Research shows that Peruvian food has become one of the most influential cuisines in the world, recognized by organizations like the World Travel Awards, which have repeatedly named Peru as the world’s leading culinary destination. It’s easy to see why after dining here. The ingredients are vibrant, the plating meticulous, and the flavors layered with care. Even the simple rotisserie chicken, a staple in Peruvian cooking, is done with such precision that you can taste the balance of spices and smokiness in every bite.
Dining at Myrna’s also feels like a cultural experience. The décor reflects traditional Peruvian motifs-woven textiles, soft lighting, and folk music that sets an inviting tone. Families gather around large tables, couples share pisco sours, and laughter fills the air. In many ways, it’s more than just a restaurant-it’s a place that brings people together through food and heritage. For anyone who enjoys exploring new cuisines, this is the kind of spot that turns a casual dinner into a memory worth revisiting.
In terms of value, the prices are reasonable, especially considering the quality of ingredients and the generous portions. The menu offers options for every palate-seafood lovers, meat enthusiasts, and even vegetarians. Reviews from locals frequently mention the outstanding service and the comforting flavors that make each visit special. Whether you’re stopping by for lunch or planning a dinner with friends, Myrna’s delivers a dining experience that feels both familiar and exciting.
For those in or around 601 Ridge Rd, North Arlington, NJ 07031, this restaurant is more than a neighborhood favorite-it’s a destination worth traveling for. With each dish, you’re reminded of how food can tell a story, connect cultures, and warm the heart. If you’ve never tried Peruvian cuisine before, this is the perfect introduction. And if you already love it, Myrna’s will make you fall in love all over again.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seatingOfferings
✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small platesDining options
✓ Breakfast ✓ Brunch ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ QuietCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ GroupsPlanning
✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kidsParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
The waitress was incredibly sweet and very helpful. Came to check on us to make sure everything was good. The food was amazing! Found a new place for sure! Thank you so much.
This place was amazing!!! I came in with my family and am on crutches and Jaqueline was so helpful and caring. The food was INCREDIBLE! I would highly recommend the parihuela and the ceviche! The Lomo Saltidas was great too! So much flavor! They were so sweet and gave us desserts because we were so happy with our experience. Overall, this is a must if you're in the area!
Came for a Sunday lunch with my family and Jaqueline was incredible! Food and atmosphere is amazing. Food portions are huge, and well worth the money. We’ll certainly come back!!
The food at Myrna Peruvian Restaurant was absolutely excellent—fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Our server, Jackie, was a total gem! She was not only incredibly sweet but also very knowledgeable about the menu and helped us make great choices. Her warm and attentive service made the experience even better. Can’t wait to come back!
The food was absolutely fantastic! We tried the leche de tigre, pescado a lo macho, and jalea, and each dish was packed with flavor. The portion sizes were very generous, the prices were reasonable, and Jaclyn provided exceptional service! She was accommodating, attentive, and friendly. Highly recommend!
We had such a great time at Myrna Peruvian Restaurant. I went with my mom, cousin, and brother, and everything we ordered was so good. The chaufa especial, chaufa de pollo, ceviche de pescado, jalea, and caucua were all super flavorful and tasted just like home. What really made the experience even better was our server. She was incredibly kind and attentive, and took the time to talk with us about the food and share a bit about herself, which we really appreciated since we’re Peruvian too. It made everything feel so warm and welcoming. We will definitely be coming back for the amazing food and great prices. Highly recommend!