Rain whipped through the Panhandle sending children and both dogs into our bed. I had the misfortune of driving through the rain storm a second time on my way towards Florida’s east coast. After a harrowing drive full of blue haired piloted land yachts absentmindedly drifting across lanes of traffic and tractor trailers cutting off fellow drivers I arrived in sunny Daytona Beach. I needed to relax and made my way towards Chucherias Hondureñas for lunch.
A large colorful sign marked the location of the restaurant, and I walked though a covered stone walkway towards the front entryway. Chucherias is located at 101 2nd Street in a large low slung stone building. A large live oak tree draped with Spanish moss reached its limbs over round tables neatly arranged on the patio and dotted with bright orange and yellow umbrellas.
I walked inside and sat at a small bar. A man behind the bar greeted me and provided me with a glass of water. Chucherias specializes in Latin American food from the north coast of Honduras. Scanning the menu I decided to order the Aaron Delgado sandwich which was advertised as tender steak Milanese breaded and pan seared, finished with Muenster cheese, and served with cassava (yucca) fries.
After placing my order I was given a small orange cup filled with homemade chicken soup. Shredded chicken, small pieces of potatoes and tomatoes bobbed about in a flavorful broth. It was a nice appetizer, served complimentary with the meal, and changes daily.
The Aaron Delgado was sliced in thirds and served in a black plastic basket. A small handful of cassava fries was included, along with two freshly made salsas. The first was sweet cilantro, and the second was tomato habanero. I dipped a cassava fry in each of the sauces, and they were both delicious. Of the two I preferred the slightly spicy tomato option as it added a nice bit of flavor to the cassava.
The sandwich was served on warm fresh bread. The breaded steak was cooked perfectly. It was tender, juicy, and well seasoned. The Muenster cheese added another layer of flavor and cheesy gooiness. I asked for a second cup of tomato habanero salsa to dip the sandwich into and was cheerfully provided one. It was a very delicious sandwich and by the end of lunch I was full and happy.
I asked for the check and the bartender asked if I wanted any dessert. I was going to skip it until I was provided with a sample of their mini Chilenitas. Cornstarch and butter cookies the size of quarters were filled with Latin style milk caramel and dusted with powdered sugar. The slightly sweet cookies paired with the caramel were sublime. I ordered a dozen and vowed to not eat the bag on the way home. I was mostly successful and six made it home to Becky and the kids.
Lunch at Chucherias was outstanding. The service was excellent and the food was worth the drive. The restaurant is open for lunch Monday – Saturday 11 to 3:30 p.m., and for dinner Wednesday – Saturday 5 to 9 p.m. Chucherias can be found online at chucheriashondurenas.com, Facebook, and contacted by telephone at (386) 239-0548.
Sweet Tea & Bourbon’s Rating
Atmosphere: A
Taste: A
Presentation: B+
Service: A
Cleanliness: A
Price: $$$
Sweet Tea & Bourbon 