Best Latin American

★ SUYO MODERN PERUVIAN

3475 Main St., Vancouver suyo.ca

There’s a new kid in town that’s taking the Latin American scene by storm. Suyo Modern Peruvian may be less than a year old, but it’s already snagged the gold in this category (and our coveted Best New award; see page 38). Chef Ricardo Valverde’s Peruvian roots shine through in the complex flavours of the scallop tiradito, catch of the day with Peruvian spices, and AAA tenderloin lomo saltado—flavour feats that had one judge declaring Suyo to be “one of my most unique dining experiences in a long time.” Monarca Cocina Mexicana takes silver for its impressive taco lineup and hearty meals like the filete en mole de frambuesa (a juicy 7-oz beef tenderloin with truffle corn esquites and raspberry mole). Ophelia gets bronze thanks to a revamped menu and

★ Monarca Cocina Mexicana

181 Carrall St., Vancouver monarca vancouver.ca

★ Ophelia

165 W 2nd Ave., Vancouver opheliakitchen.ca

HONOURABLE MENTION

La Mezcaleria

1622 Commercial Dr., Vancouver lamezcaleria.ca standout dishes like the corn-crusted octopus with white mole. And every visit to honourable mention La Mezcaleria is a chance to sample the best agave spirits in town while chowing down on casual and authentic Mexican eats.