A fusion of ancient Incan traditions, Spanish influence, and other global tastes has positioned Lima as one of the world’s top culinary destinations. If you’re venturing to the city for a gastronomic journey, here are seven restaurants you simply can’t miss:
Central
Chef: Virgilio Martínez Located in the trendy Miraflores district, Central has earned its spot on the list of the world’s 50 best restaurants several times. Here, Chef Virgilio Martínez showcases ingredients found at various altitudes of Peru, from the Amazon rainforest to the Andes mountains. Each dish tells a story of its origin, both in presentation and flavor.
Maido
Chef: Mitsuharu ‘Micha’ Tsumura
Maido is the pinnacle of Nikkei cuisine, a fusion of Peruvian and Japanese flavors. With a 15-course tasting menu, diners can expect dishes like sea urchin rice and miso-marinated cod. The restaurant’s success is evident in its consistent ranking among the world’s best restaurants.
Astrid y Gastón
Chef: Gastón Acurio
This iconic spot in San Isidro, established in a historic mansion, represents the modern evolution of Peruvian cuisine. Gastón Acurio, a legendary figure in the global culinary scene, offers dishes that are both familiar and innovative, emphasizing local ingredients and traditions.
La Mar
Chef: Gustavo Montestruque
A visit to Lima would be incomplete without tasting its world-famous ceviche. La Mar is a bustling cevicheria that celebrates Peru’s rich maritime harvest. With a vibrant atmosphere and an expansive menu, it’s the perfect place for a sunny afternoon meal.
Osso
If you’re a meat lover, Osso is your haven. This steakhouse and butcher shop boasts some of the best cuts in the city. From dry-aged steaks to homemade sausages, Osso’s carnivorous menu is paired with an inviting rustic ambiance.
Isolina Taberna Peruana
Situated in the bohemian Barranco district, Isolina offers a dive into Peruvian comfort food. Featuring hearty creole dishes inspired by old family recipes, the restaurant exudes nostalgia. Their “causas” and “anticuchos” are must-tries!
Malabar
Chef: Pedro Miguel Schiaffino
Schiaffino’s innovative creations shine the spotlight on ingredients sourced from the Amazon. At Malabar, the unique flavors of the rainforest are paired with avant-garde techniques, creating an unforgettable dining experience.
Bonus: Street Food While Lima’s high-end restaurants are truly exceptional, the heart of Peruvian cuisine can also be found in its street food. Don’t leave without trying a “sanguche de chicharron” from a local vendor or savoring a freshly made “picarone” dripping with syrup.
What Are Some Must Try Foods in Lima?
Ceviche
Lima’s iconic dish, ceviche features raw fish or seafood marinated in freshly squeezed lime juice, spiced with ají peppers and mixed with onions and cilantro. Best enjoyed with a side of sweet potato and crunchy Peruvian corn, it’s a refreshing dish that embodies the flavors of the Pacific coast.
Lomo Saltado
This savory stir-fry showcases the Chinese influence on Peruvian cuisine, blending tender beef strips with onions, tomatoes, and peppers. The dish is then combined with crispy fried potatoes and typically served alongside a portion of rice.
Anticuchos de Corazón
A popular street food, anticuchos are skewered and grilled morsels, most famously made from marinated beef heart. They’re rich in flavor, often accompanied by boiled potatoes and a slice of corn on the cob, and are best enjoyed with a spicy rocoto pepper sauce.
Causa Limeña
A cold dish, causa is a layered terrine of mashed yellow potatoes seasoned with lime and ají amarillo. Between the layers, you might find fillings such as chicken salad, avocado, or shrimp, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Suspiro a la Limeña
A dessert that translates as “Lima woman’s sigh”, it’s a sweet concoction made of a rich, velvety base of sweetened condensed milk and egg yolks, topped with a cloud of Italian meringue. Its creamy texture and caramel-like flavor make it a perfect treat to end a meal in Lima.
Well, we hope you enjoyed our list of the some of the best restaurants in Lima and if there’s one we missed be sure to let us know!
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