Peru is famous for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. But the food scene here is one you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re tasting street food or sitting down in one of Lima’s many world-class restaurants, you’ll be in for a flavor explosion.
Ceviche: Peru’s Signature Dish
If there’s one thing you must try in Peru, it’s ceviche. This dish is as fresh as it gets: raw fish marinated in citrus juice, usually lime, and mixed with onion, cilantro, and aji (chile peppers). The acidity from the lime “cooks” the fish, resulting in something delightful and light.
In Lima, you’ll find ceviche at almost every restaurant, but try it in a local cevicheria for the best experience. For a top-notch ceviche, check out La Mar in Lima. It’s a bit on the pricier side, but the quality and flavor make it totally worth it.
Where to Eat Ceviche
- La Mar (Lima) – A popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
- El Mercado (Lima) – Excellent ceviche with a trendy atmosphere.
- Canta Rana (Lima) – A more casual setting, but just as delicious.
Lomo Saltado: A Must-Try Stir Fry
An amazing mix of Peruvian and Chinese flavors, lomo saltado is a stir-fry with a twist. This dish combines beef sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and soy sauce, served with fries and rice. It’s Peru’s answer to comfort food.
Lima is full of restaurants serving huge portions of lomo saltado. Try it at Isolina, a well-known spot in the Barranco district. This old-fashioned “tavern” is famous for huge plates that are perfect for sharing.
Where to Eat Lomo Saltado
- Isolina (Lima) – Go with a big appetite!
- Tanta (Lima) – A chain, but reliable for flavorful lomo saltado.
- El Chinito (Lima) – Best known for its sandwiches, it also serves great lomo saltado.
Pisco Sour: Peru’s National Drink
If you leave Peru without having a Pisco Sour, you haven’t really experienced the country. This cocktail is made with Pisco (a local brandy), lime juice, simple syrup, egg white, and Angostura bitters. It’s sweet, tangy, and a little frothy.
The drink packs a punch, but it’s incredibly refreshing, especially in Lima’s warm climate. You’ll find it especially good at Gran Hotel Bolívar, which is said to make some of Lima’s best Pisco Sours.
Where to Drink Pisco Sour
- Gran Hotel Bolívar (Lima) – A historic spot to sip on this iconic drink.
- Ayahuasca Restobar (Lima) – Known for its lively atmosphere and great cocktails.
- Bar Capitán Meléndez (Arequipa) – A classy place with expertly made drinks.
Papa a la Huancaína: Potatoes with Creamy Sauce
Peru is home to thousands of potato varieties, and there’s no better way to experience them than with papa a la huancaína. It’s a simple dish: boiled potatoes covered in a sauce made from queso fresco (fresh cheese), ají amarillo, and evaporated milk.
This dish is often served as a starter and is incredibly rich and filling. For the best versions, head to Huaca Pucllana in Lima. The setting is impressive too—it’s located right next to ancient ruins.
Where to Eat Papa a la Huancaína
- Huaca Pucllana (Lima) – A perfect combination of food and history.
- El Señorío de Sulco (Lima) – Traditional dishes with amazing views of the ocean.
- Panchita (Lima) – Known for classic Peruvian dishes.
Anticuchos: Grilled Beef Hearts
Don’t be put off by the name—anticuchos are delicious! These skewers of marinated beef hearts are tender and grilled to perfection. You often find them on street corners, especially in Cusco or Lima, served with boiled potatoes and corn.
For classic anticuchos, Doña Grimanesa in Miraflores is where locals swear by. You’ll have to wait in line, but it’s worth it for the flavors packed into each bite.
Where to Eat Anticuchos
- Doña Grimanesa (Lima) – The famous anticuchería in Miraflores.
- La Carreta (Lima) – Great meats and flavorful anticuchos.
- Grill 360º (Arequipa) – Known for its grilled dishes, including standout anticuchos.
Aji de Gallina: Creamy Chicken Stew
Another Peruvian comfort food classic: ají de gallina. This dish is made with shredded chicken in a creamy, flavorful sauce made from aji amarillo peppers and walnuts. It’s served over white rice and often accompanied by boiled potatoes or eggs.
Try this warming dish at El Rincón Que No Conoces, a spot in Lima famous for home-style Peruvian cooking.
Where to Eat Aji de Gallina
- El Rincón Que No Conoces (Lima) – A locals’ favorite for traditional dishes.
- Panchita (Lima) – Another standby for classic recipes.
- Parrilla El Potrero (Cusco) – Great regional dishes, including legendary ají de gallina.
Causa Rellena: Layered Mashed Potatoes
Causa rellena is a colorful dish made from layers of creamy mashed potatoes, often filled with tuna, chicken, or avocado. It’s a cold dish, making it ideal on warmer days, and you’ll find it in many local restaurants.
For a delicious causa rellena, check out Tanta in Lima. The combination of fresh ingredients and perfect seasoning will leave you wanting seconds.
Where to Eat Causa Rellena
- Tanta (Lima) – Famous for modern twists on traditional Peruvian dishes.
- Panchita (Lima) – Their take on causa rellena is excellent.
- Huaca Pucllana (Lima) – Also serves a great causa, with an unbeatable view of the ruins.
Street Food: Where the Magic Happens
Don’t leave Peru without sampling the street food. In just about every city, you’ll find vendors offering quick bites that are packed with flavor. Try empanadas (stuffed pastries), tamales (corn dough filled with meats or vegetables), and papa rellena (fried stuffed potatoes).
For amazing street food, the central markets are where to go. In Lima, check out the Surquillo Market for the freshest and tastiest on-the-go eats.
Where to Find Street Food
- Surquillo Market (Lima) – A hub for fresh produce and cheap eats.
- San Pedro Market (Cusco) – Packed with vendors selling everything from tamales to chicha morada.
- Ayacucho Market (Arequipa) – Overflowing with local flavors and traditional street food.
Final Thoughts
Peru’s food is as diverse as its landscapes. From fresh ceviche by the coast to hearty lomo saltado up in the mountains, you’ll find something for every palate. Don’t be afraid to explore new dishes or pop into a hole-in-the-wall spot with no English menu—they often provide the most memorable experiences. Happy eating!
Leave a reply