In the vibrant Latin food corridor on Williams Boulevard in Kenner, LA, the diversity of flavors is remarkable. Located at 3712 Williams Boulevard, Las Carnitas 2 is a casual gathering spot for families, offering a menu that blends the most popular dishes from the Honduran and Central American communities with the excellence of Peruvian cuisine.
Las Carnitas 2 is the labor of love of José and Lisbeth Torres, a Peruvian couple dedicated to bringing the iconic flavors of their homeland to the region. After expanding into their current location in 2017, the restaurant has become a favorite haven for families seeking quality and value.
“My dream was simple: to serve authentic Peruvian food, treat everyone like family, and bring a piece of Peru to our community,” Torres says, reflecting on the philosophy that has guided the restaurant since its beginning.
The menu is a testament to Peru’s gastronomic wealth. While Peruvian ceviche—fresh and citrusy, cured in lime, and accompanied by choclo (Andean corn) and sweet potato—is the undisputed star, the menu caters to various cravings. From comforting beef soup to traditional carne asada (grilled meat) and baleadas, every dish reflects the tastes of a diverse community finding a home here.
Another pillar of the menu is the traditional lomo saltado. Combining Cantonese influence with the Peruvian soul through stir-fried beef with tomato, red onion, and soy sauce, this dish is a clear example of the passion Chef Torres brings to his kitchen.
The experience at Las Carnitas 2 is defined by patience and quality. “We prepare almost everything to order. We don’t have anything prepared beforehand; if you ask for a lomo, I prepare it fresh on the spot. That is why we sometimes take a little longer to serve—we take the time to cook everything fresh,” explains Chef Torres.
“We preserve the traditional, not the fusion. When someone comes here and tries the lomo saltado—with that flamed touch that gives it a smoky, sweet, and acidic flavor—they say: ‘It’s exactly like the one back home!’” affirms Torres. Regarding the atmosphere, he adds: “We do not sell liquor because this is a family restaurant—a space where wives, husbands, and children can come with complete confidence.”
Why do people prefer Las Carnitas 2? The answer lies in the consistency and the warmth of the service.
What you should order:
You cannot leave without trying the lomo saltado, the fried fish, or the bistec a lo pobre (steak for the poor)—a generous meal with a fried egg and ripe plantain—dishes that stand out for their freshness and artisanal preparation.
In this place, you are served with kindness and offered quality food with an unmatched flavor that transports you to Peru. “We are very proud to serve the community for so many years, and we are thankful to God for all our achievements.”
