Masi: Virgilio and Malena Martínez Launch Sensory Exploration of Peruvian Ecosystems

Masi, a new project by siblings Malena and Virgilio Martínez, offers an immersive, sensory experience that goes beyond traditional dining to showcase the research conducted by Mater, their biocultural sciences institute. Located in Barranco, the space transforms visitors' perception by replacing the typical restaurant setting with an exploration of Peru's natural environments. Upon entering, the urban noise gives way to forest sounds, intriguing aromas, and visual cues that prepare guests for a 90-minute journey into the Peruvian Amazon. This experience allows participants to engage with ingredients like cacao, vanilla, camu camu, Brazil nuts, and pipilongo not just through taste, but through a holistic sensory approach. The project aims to make Mater's extensive research on Peru's ecosystems, conducted over more than a decade with local communities, accessible to a wider audience. The initial offering, "Amazonía de Altura," guides small groups through tasting and interacting with various ingredient preparations, highlighting unexpected flavor profiles and textures. Beyond taste, the experience incorporates soundscapes, projections, specially designed objects for handling ingredients, and interactive exercises to reveal subtle nuances. Malena Martínez explained that Masi provides a platform to share knowledge and creative processes that are difficult to convey in a high-cuisine restaurant setting. The minimalist architecture of Masi, featuring warm wood elements, complements the interdisciplinary team of scientists, biologists, designers, chefs, and artisans who translate complex research into an accessible format. Future editions are planned for the Andes, desert, and Pacific Ocean, though the Amazon will remain the current focus. The "Inmersión Mater Ecosistema, Cap. 001: Amazonía de Altura" experience runs twice daily, with reservations available via their website or email.