If you read my recap on Coni Seafood, you’ll know how much I enjoy mariscos. Since Chef Sergio Peñuelas left Coni Seafood, I quickly noticed a few changes with their food and I decided that it was worth my while to see if I could locate him.
Thanks to social media, I found him rather quickly. I recognized some of his dishes on a Yelp page and there were associated with a brand new restaurant in Long Beach – Cheko El Rey Del Sarandeado.
I initially dined there by myself mostly to see if Sergio was actually there. As I walked in, I immediately recognized Sergio and felt a sense that I would experience a culinary adventure.
I ordered three dishes just to see if the food was as good as I remembered it to be, and it was. That said, I was motivated to share my discovery with others.
I’ve invited different friends to sample his food and I’m delighted to report that Sergio was there each time. Even better was the fact that my friends agreed that this was a special place.
If you enjoy ceviche, you definitely need to order one. The Ceviche El Rey contains white fish, octopus and shrimp. I also had an opportunity to try their ceviche with sea snails, scallops and shrimp. Paired with chips, this makes an excellent starter.
Cheko’s Marlin Tacos are grilled and not deep fried. They are filled with smoked marlin, melted cheese and a slice of avocado. Unlike some other marlin tacos, these aren’t served dripping with oil.
Camarones al Mojo de ajo is a simple dish consisting of shrimp that is sauteed in oil, butter, garlic, chiles and lime juice. Sergio cooks the shrimp to perfection, but what makes the dish is the delicious sauce that accompanies it.
Pescado Sarandeado is Sergio’s signature dish. A whole snook is butterflied and grilled over charcoal. It’s served “open face” with a delicious sauce consisting of caramelized onions, butter and soy sauce. Yes, soy sauce. Combined with the corn tortillas, this makes an incredible taste experience.
If you like mariscos, head down to Cheko El Rey Del Sarandeado in North Long Beach. You won’t regret the trip.
Cheko El Rey Del Sarandeado
- 343 E Market Street, North Long Beach, CA; (562) 422-4888
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cheko-el-Rey-del-Sarandeado-1467057520274247