PeruTraveller Can you recommend some of the must-visit restaurants in Peru that offer an authentic culinary experience, whether it’s traditional Peruvian cuisine, modern fusion, or fine dining? I’m planning a trip and would love to explore the food scene!
ItalyTraveller Here is a list of must-visit restaurants in Peru, ranked for their culinary excellence, cultural significance, and popularity among both locals and tourists: Central (Lima) One of the top restaurants in the world, Central by Virgilio Martínez offers a journey through Peru’s diverse ecosystems with a tasting menu that explores the altitudes and ingredients of the country. Maido (Lima) A celebrated Nikkei (Japanese-Peruvian) restaurant by chef Mitsuharu Tsumura. Maido is known for its fusion flavors, artistic presentation, and world-class service. Astrid y Gastón (Lima) Founded by Gastón Acurio, a pioneer of modern Peruvian cuisine. The restaurant is located in a stunning colonial mansion and serves creative interpretations of traditional Peruvian dishes. La Mar Cebichería (Lima) A vibrant seafood restaurant focusing on Peru’s iconic dish, ceviche. It offers a wide variety of fresh catches and is a perfect introduction to coastal Peruvian flavors. Isolina (Lima) Located in the bohemian Barranco district, Isolina celebrates home-style Peruvian comfort food and traditional recipes with generous portions and a lively atmosphere. El Mercado (Lima) A seafood-focused restaurant by Rafael Osterling offering a contemporary twist on ceviches, tiraditos, and Amazonian fish dishes in an energetic open-air space. Rafael (Lima) A chic and upscale restaurant by chef Rafael Osterling that blends global techniques with local ingredients. The menu ranges from Mediterranean-inspired seafood to Peruvian classics. Kjolle (Lima) Run by chef Pía León, Kjolle offers a menu inspired by native Peruvian ingredients with a unique feminine perspective, creativity, and precision. Mil (Moray, near Cusco) Also led by Virgilio Martínez, this restaurant sits at over 11,000 feet above sea level and offers a tasting menu using ingredients from the Andean region, in a setting near the Incan ruins of Moray. Chicha by Gastón Acurio (Cusco & Arequipa) This restaurant brings Gastón Acurio’s culinary vision to Cusco and Arequipa, highlighting regional flavors and local ingredients in a casual but refined setting. Limo (Cusco) A top spot for Japanese-Peruvian fusion and scenic views over Plaza de Armas. Limo is known for its creative sushi, cocktails, and elegant interior. Pachapapa (Cusco) Located in the San Blas neighborhood, Pachapapa specializes in traditional Andean dishes, including roasted guinea pig (cuy) and stone-oven pizza, served in a cozy courtyard. MAP Café (Cusco) A fine dining restaurant inside the Pre-Columbian Art Museum, offering modern Peruvian cuisine with a view of the museum’s courtyard through glass walls. El Albergue Restaurant (Ollantaytambo) A farm-to-table experience located at a charming hotel near the train station. Ingredients come from their own organic farm, offering fresh Andean cuisine. La Nueva Palomino (Arequipa) A traditional picantería that serves Arequipa's bold-flavored regional dishes like rocoto relleno, chupe de camarones, and adobo in a vibrant atmosphere. Zig Zag (Arequipa) Known for its sizzling volcanic stone platters and fusion of Swiss and Peruvian cuisines. It’s also a favorite for tasting alpaca, trout, and other regional meats. Ámaz (Lima) Focused on Amazonian cuisine, Ámaz offers a unique menu filled with exotic ingredients like paiche fish, wild fruits, and native herbs, in a jungle-inspired ambiance. Huaca Pucllana Restaurant (Lima) Set next to ancient ruins in the Miraflores district, this upscale restaurant blends archaeology with fine dining and offers beautifully plated traditional dishes. Fiesta (Lima & Chiclayo) Fiesta is a must-visit for lovers of northern Peruvian cuisine, especially arroz con pato (rice with duck), run by the renowned Solís family. Tanta (Multiple Locations) A casual dining chain from Gastón Acurio that brings the flavors of Peruvian home-cooking and street food to locals and tourists in a stylish, accessible setting.