Award-Winning Restaurant's Second Location Set To Open In West Hartford

WEST HARTFORD, CT — An award-winning restaurant is opening a second eatery in West Hartford on Wednesday, Dec. 10, in a prominent shopping destination.

The iconic Peruvian eatery "Coracora" will open its new flagship restaurant in Blue Back Square, 51 Isham Road.

Coracora's owners announced the opening via social media this week.

Coracora is a highly decorated restaurant in Connecticut, and it currently operates is main restaurant at 162 Shield St. in West Hartford.

That site will become a fast-casual eatery, while the new site at Blue Back Square will become the main, upscale restaurant.

In addition to being regularly nominated for the James Beard Awards, considered the "Oscars" of the restaurant industry, Coracora in 2023 was named that year's "Restaurant of the Year" by the Connecticut Restaurant Association.

The new Coracora location is at the site of a former Mexican restaurant chain that closed in 2024 after opening in 2022, Rosa Mexicano.

In a statement released Friday, the restaurant classified the Dec. 10 opening as a "soft opening," which is expected to continue through January.

It will offer a full menu with limited seating for dinner Wednesdays through Fridays (5 to 11 p.m.) as well as seatings Saturdays and Sundays (11 a.m. to 11 p.m.).

“We are beyond thrilled to share our dream and Peruvian culture and gastronomy with the community that has been so supportive of us,” said Grecia Ludena, co-owner of Coracora.

“Our flagship location is a multi-sensorial experience that represents different elements of Peru, of who we are, and we hope that our dedication and passion for hospitality is felt by our guests at every turn.”

According to Coracora, the food menu will feature items that "Coracora is known for, while also adding new items with influences from throughout Peru."

“This next step in Coracora’s journey is defined, in part, by our evolution,” said Macarena Ludena, chef and co-owner of Coracora, adding, “Our commitment to sharing creativity and new inspirations while honoring our traditions and roots is central to this next phase, and we are looking forward to introducing a new spin on Peruvian cuisine in the Connecticut dining scene.”

The nearly 6,000-square-foot space was designed by Connecticut-based design atelier Arkay-Leliever, LLC and it has a private dining area, 190 indoor seats, and a 41-seat outdoor seasonal patio.

From May 7, 2024: 'Popular Peruvian Eatery Expanding In West Hartford'