New York City - A Queens restaurant is making headlines for serving a dish that might raise eyebrows among pet owners: roasted guinea pig. La Casa Del Cuy, located in Corona, Queens, is offering this traditional Ecuadorian cuisine, which involves marinating frozen guinea pigs in garlic and spices, skewering them, and grilling them. The finished dish is served with potatoes, corn, and a peanut sauce.
The restaurant's manager claims that the guinea pig meat is "tastier than chicken or rabbit," and that the head is the most delicious part. The dish is priced at $110 and the restaurant is working on securing a large supply of guinea pigs to meet the demand.
The idea to serve guinea pig came about during the pandemic when Ecuadorian customers requested it. The restaurant, which initially focused on rotisserie chicken, decided to give it a try and has since gained popularity among both Ecuadorian expats and adventurous locals, as well as Chinese tourists.
Guinea pig has been a traditional food source in Ecuador for centuries. It is considered a sustainable alternative to other meats as it requires fewer resources to raise. In Ecuador, guinea pigs are often served at special occasions like weddings, and there's even a tradition of gifting a pair of guinea pigs to the bride's family.
While the dish might be seen as exotic or even controversial in some parts of the world, it's a common delicacy in both Ecuador and Peru. In Peru, guinea pig is considered a delicacy and a valuable source of protein.
British television personality Helen Skelton previously shared a similar experience during a humanitarian trip to Peru. She recounted being served fried guinea pig, complete with claws, and described it as a local delicacy.
While the idea of eating guinea pigs might be unsettling for some, it's important to note that cultural food practices vary widely around the world. What is considered a delicacy in one culture may be taboo in another.
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