The holidays arrived quickly this year, and the moment my mom, Maritza, landed from Puerto Rico, I felt that familiar mix of emotion and excitement settle in.

This season is different, it’s our first without my father, but it’s also one we’re choosing to approach with intention. Being together mattered more than ever.

With my husband and me both ready to slow down a bit thanks to my time off from teaching and the flexibility that comes with my work as a journalist, we decided to start the holidays the best way we know how: around a table, sharing stories, laughter, and good food.

Mom and I’s first stop after I picked her up from the airport was Jarana, located just steps from the energy and buzz of Aventura Mall at the mall’s outside and adjacent shopping center.

From the moment we walked in, the space felt celebratory without trying too hard, warm lighting, a lively dining room, and that unmistakable hum of people enjoying themselves. It was exactly the kind of environment we were craving, one that is upbeat, welcoming, and perfect for easing into the holidays together.

Jarana’s newly refreshed dinner menu, created by Chef Martha Palacios, immediately caught our attention.

It’s a menu that celebrates Peruvian flavors while embracing creativity, blending Nikkei-inspired touches with comforting classics.

The starters alone felt like an invitation to explore. Shareable plates like the crispy Peruvian seafood platter arrive golden and crunchy, offering a mix of textures that feel indulgent but approachable. The crispy rice topped with tuna tartare and salmon caviar leans more playful, and it is layered, vibrant, and clearly designed to be passed around the table.

Classic Peruvian favorites also make a strong showing. Dishes inspired by traditional cebiches highlight bright citrus notes and subtle heat, while small plates like causas bring together creamy potato bases with bold, savory toppings.

There’s a balance throughout the menu, nothing feels overwhelming, and everything feels thoughtfully composed.

The heart of the menu shines when it comes to the wood-fired and charcoal-grilled offerings. Jarana’s famous Peruvian chicken is kissed by Josper charcoal, giving it a smoky depth that feels familiar yet elevated. The crispy branzino delivers that satisfying contrast between delicate, flaky fish and crackling skin, making it a standout for anyone craving something lighter but still full of flavor.

These are the kinds of dishes that anchor the table, grounding the meal and encouraging everyone to linger a little longer.

Comfort plays a big role here, too. Reimagined classics like the Milanesa Choclito feel nostalgic but modern, while the dry noodle soup, one that is known as sopa seca, brings warmth and richness without heaviness. It’s the type of dish that feels especially right during the holidays, when comfort and familiarity matter most.

One of the most fun sections of the menu is the lineup of sizzling skillet rice dishes. Served hot and aromatic, they arrive topped with combinations like shrimp, octopus, and calamari, or crispy pork belly paired with chorizo. They’re bold, hearty, and clearly meant for sharing, and perfect for family-style dining and easy conversation.

Of course, no visit to Jarana would be complete without cocktails, and the bar menu delivers just as much personality as the food. Pisco-based drinks take center stage, ranging from refreshing and citrus-forward to deeper, more spirit-forward options. Some lean bright and herbaceous, others slightly sweet with tropical notes, making them ideal companions to the menu’s varied flavors. Even non-pisco cocktails showcase thoughtful combinations, offering something for every mood and palate.

As we sat there, it felt good to simply be present. Jarana became more than just our first dine out, it truly became the backdrop for the start of our holiday season.

The laughter came easily, the conversation flowed, and for a couple of hours, everything felt exactly as it should.

Jarana is the kind of place that works for so many moments: a family reunion, a celebratory night out, or even a spontaneous dinner after a day of shopping.

It’s lively without being overwhelming, polished without feeling formal, and deeply rooted in flavor and warmth.

Jarana is located at 19505 Biscayne Blvd. at Suite 5150 in Aventura, FL. For more information and to make a reservation, call (786) 840-8840 or visit jaranarestaurant.com/aventura/.