New traditions are constantly being introduced to central Ohio as Columbus grows larger. Recent OSU grad Jennifer Gallegos-Ortiz and her husband, Omar Ortiz, a current Hospitality Management major, have established an eatery unlike any in Columbus. Andino Chicken blends the spices of Puerto Rico, Peru, Mexico and Cuba to bring the authentic tastes to compete with the pretenders that seem to be popular in Buckeye Country. While balancing the day-to-day operations, Omar and Jennifer actively create the flavorful food Andino Chicken offers. The signature item is the Peruvian Rotisserie Chicken ($10.59 whole chicken and two sides, $5.99 half and two sides). Along with the mouth-watering chicken, the Ortiz’ host a fresh salsa bar featuring original recipes, delicate desserts, and sandwiches just right for late nights out on the town. Although Andino Chicken has just hatched, it is sure to grow into a place you will visit often.

I was once again joined by Francie and her husband Nick, and our new friend Shana. Walking into Andino, you notice scattered Peruvian artifacts on the walls. Omar assured us he has plans to develop the interior as the restaurant grows. One eye-catching appliance is the rotisserie oven imported from Peru, where the chicken is slowly roasted over coals, a process that produces tender, savory meat. In addition to the slow roasting, the seasoning is what sets this chicken apart. Jennifer learned the recipe in her native Peru, mixing such ingredients as sugar, vinegar, cumin, various herbs and…well, I can’t give away all the secrets. Instead of coating the skin, the seasonings are tucked underneath, locking the flavor inside.

Andino also features other entrees including classic Cuban sandwiches ($5.49). The Retiro sandwich is another of the Puerto Rican specialties on the menu that is made with ham, pork, and beef. The menu also includes tacos ($1.39) and tortas ($4.99), which can be filled with your favorite meats including asada, suadero, carnitas, and even lengua and tripas. Items excluded from the late night menu are the platillos and caldos. Platillos ($6.49) allow you to mix and match your favorite meat entrée with sides. Caldos ($5.99) are soups or stews, my favorite being pozole, a spicy Mexican soup with hominy and pork or beef. Their list of exceptional desserts includes alfajor ($2.00), a pair of soft cookies with cajeta in between covered with powdered sugar. Side dishes include salads and plátanos fritos ($1.79).
Adjacent to the old Continent Plaza on Route 161 and Interstate 71, Andino Chicken caters to nearby night spots by being open on Sunday and Monday mornings from one to four in the morning.

Andino Chicken, with its incredible Rotisserie Chicken, island-inspired sandwiches and dishes, savory desserts, and salsa bar, is sure to be a hit in the making. Just over a month since its opening, the restaurant is still taking shape. With the valuable advice from the faculty of the Hospitality Management Department and the Ortiz’ determination, Andino Chicken marks the dawn of the new player in Columbus’ dining options.