The best restaurants in Lima all bring exceptional value to the table, whether that be found in the quality of the ingredients, the creativity of the chef and culinary team, the inspiring ambience or the entire story narrated from the beginning until the end of the experience. In counted, unique cases there are opportunities for some of the best dining in Lima when all of these factors unite for one incredible meal. To take matters a step further, there are great rewards for those who decide to leverage Lima’s year-round mild climate and offer guests a respite from the hustle and bustle by providing chic and cozy outdoor seating and rooftop patios. You don’t have to venture very far off the beaten path to become completely enamored by these top restaurants in Lima that serve their delicious bites with a side of fresh air. azotea doceThis spacious rooftop patio nearly takes you to the clouds as the highest rooftop terrace in Lima located on the 22nd floor. With several different dining areas, guests can choose the spot that best fits the mood for the moment whether that be the polished and sophisticated bar, the formal dining room with views of the kitchen, or our favorite, the outdoor terrace. On many weeknights, Azotea Doce also organizes live music, which provides the perfect recipe for a great time. The dishes are delicately crafted and artfully presented and although on the light side, the flavor alone more than satiates the palate.
dadaAmong the best restaurants in Barranco, you’ll find a stunning spot that invites you to relax and lean into the district’s bohemian vibe. Located in a gorgeous renovated mansion along San Martin Avenue, you’ll pass through the gates and into an open space that extends all the way to the landscaped garden at the back of the property. The outdoor bar and wood-burning oven are the highlights at Dada but you’ll find a colorful and theatrical escape within each room of the house’s interior. It’s the perfect plan for a few drinks and tapas after discovering all of the vibrant things to do in Barranco.
la plazitaTucked into a quaint, green corner in the heart of Miraflores, La Plazita is always a winning option. Just blocks from the iconic Larco Avenue, you’ll find a relaxing patio that has something for everyone. The restaurant’s casual, elegant style puts the menu front and center with fresh Peruvian fusions that allow the country’s rich biodiversity to be the protagonist. La Plazita, without a doubt, is one of the best restaurants in Miraflores with outdoor seating.
osakaNo visit to Lima would be complete without the Nikkei experience. The Peruvian-Japanese fusion has brought us innumerable culinary gifts thanks to both cultures’ millenary appreciation for the sea. If you can’t get a table at Latin America’s top restaurant, Maido, don’t fret as Lima has some amazing options for you to get a taste of Nikkei cuisine and one of those happens to have a killer terrace. Osaka sits right on the edge of the San Isidro district and from the sensory-packed descent into the depths of this underground lair, you can tell it will be an experience. The food, the drinks and obviously the terrace make this a great spot to spend an evening in Lima.
barra limaIf you have a special appreciation for extreme attention to detail and you’re craving an alternative to the widely-recommended cebichería La Mar, then Barra Lima is your place. Don’t let the unassuming trappings fool you, the dishes are nothing short of exquisite. It’s apparent that the execution of each dish was planned down to the exact position of every element on the plate and the flavors follow suit making it a well-rounded experience. Barra Lima shows us native Peruvian ingredients reimagined and recomposed. The bonus is the al fresco patio which allows you to do some light people watching as you’ll be curbside one of Lima’s prime boutique shopping avenues, Conquistadores.
cous cousFor some, sitting down to a meal is about so much more than the flavors and aromas because the preparation for the dishes began much before, when the seeds were planted, even far before harvest. Conscious dining is a trend becoming ever-more present as guests want to know more about the origins of their meals and the micro-economy affected by their conscious decisions regarding consumption. Lucky for Lima, there is a centrally-located Miraflores rooftop paradise that cooks up just the kind of dishes that care for the environment and are sourced locally. Cous Cous is a lovely option with well-being at the heart of the matter. If you are looking for vegetarian options, check out our list of the best vegetarian restaurants in Lima.
celesteIf cocktails are your focus, then this rooftop bar is the perfect place to start the evening, or even end it for that matter. The upbeat music and understated décor give a feel of sophistication and a jolt of energy that make this the perfect space if you’re feeling more social. You’ll find locals and visitors alike as Celeste’s cool vibe has wide-reaching appeal.
la huaca pucllanaLast but certainly not least is easily one of the most incredible outdoor patios of them all – the Huaca Pucllana. Nestled within an archeological complex dating back 1,500 years, you’ll dine at one of the best restaurants in Lima while overlooking pre-Incan ruins. With the intricate, gourmet twist given to some of Peru’s most traditional dishes, it’s hard to say which stands out more, the food or the views. While this fine dining establishment is the perfect option for treating yourself to an incredible experience for lunch or dinner, in the evenings they also have an outdoor bar where you can grab a drink just to see the site illuminated at night or join us on a Lima food tour for a visit.
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Where do you even begin to plan for your trip to Lima, let alone Peru? Nowdays there is a wealth of information available like never before and even the most savvy of travelers can get bogged down by the plurality of voices sharing their experiences. The ideal scenario would be to have a local friend to call on for insider insights, someone whose taste and characterization of a place you could blindly trust. What is perhaps the next best thing? The perspective of an expat who understands the culture, history and nuances of a place, while also bridging the divide through their own native cultural lens. In that sense you would get the best of both worlds, essentially a shortcut to the “meat and potatoes” of a destination through a curated itinerary that would allow you to get the most out of your trip. Today is your lucky day, because that is just what I’m offering you – a way to hack your travel planning to Lima. I’m a Kansas City native who has spent the last 15 years as an expat, the last eight of which have been spent in Peru alongside my Lima-born husband, Lucas, helping visitors discover the best of what the country has to offer. So, here are my two cents on how to hack Lima and have an unforgettable stay in the City of Kings. where to stay in limaWhile Lima has 43 districts, or neighborhoods, you can safely narrow your visit down to three or four where you’ll be wandering: Miraflores, Barranco, San Isidro and Lima’s historic center. There are a few outliers you may hit along the way but for the most part you’ll be in and out just to see a main attraction or two. The best areas to book your hotel would be, hands-down, Miraflores or Barranco. Miraflores offers a modern view of the city with lots of shops, most of the upscale restaurants and you’ll even find many international chains (sometimes a comfort, but I know you did not come all the way to Peru just to hit up Starbucks). Miraflores is a safe neighborhood where you can walk around and get a feel for how the city has developed over the last 40 years; there are beautifully landscaped parks, the coastal promenade, or malecón in local lingo, bike lanes, paragliding and more. While you can find internationally recognized hotel chains like the Marriott and Hilton, I’m a believer in getting carried away by the charm of a boutique hotel. A couple of lovely options that are well-located and are a big hit are: Hotel de Autor and La Quinta Miraflores Boutique Barranco is the bohemian, romantic and even slightly hipster side of the city. Here you’ll find gorgeous traditional mansions that have been restored and invite you travel back in time. The colors of the neighborhood pop as you walk through the narrow, tree-lined streets and appreciate the eclectic architecture, eye-catching street art and boutique art galleries that are peppered throughout the area. The laid-back vibe and mix of traditional styles infused with a modern twist make this district truly unique and unforgettable. Looks like people have begun to take notice as some amazing boutique hotels have opened recently allowing guests to be fully immersed in Barranco’s hallmark style. Try Casa Republica or Villa Barranco for an extra special stay in Lima. what to eat in limaIf you haven’t tried Peruvian cuisine before now, then there is no better place than Lima. And even if you have, be prepared to be blown away by the freshness of the ingredients, variety of flavors and seemingly boundless fusions. This is undoubtedly the longest section of tips; after all, we do run Lima food tours so we believe this is one of the best ways to get to know Peru. With limited time in the city, you’ll still be able to understand why Lima has been declared the Leading Culinary Destination in the World for the last six years by the World Travel Awards. By now, most people have heard of cebiche and the pisco sour, Peru’s flagship dish and drink, even if you haven’t tried it, however the country’s rich foodie history has so much more to offer. Let’s take a look: |
Tips: If you head to the center of Lima, you can fit in the Plaza de Armas, views of the presidential palace (and changing of the guards at noon), the Lima Cathedral and a tour of the San Francisco Monastery and its catacombs in about 2 hours. Keep in mind that most churches close to the public at 5:00 PM.
Modern & Cosmopolitan Lima - Miraflores
Shopping in Miraflores Inka Market - outdoor market Larcomar - outdoor mall La Paz Avenue - antiques Ilaria - silver jewelry Kuna - baby alpaca El Almacén de arte - art |
Tips: Miraflores is a very walkable district, however if you need a taxi to get anywhere, you will have no trouble finding one and anywhere you should want to go (besides the historic center) should not take longer than 15 minutes. Miraflores is also actively promoting a healthier, higher quality of lifestyle and bikes, as well as bike lanes if you're up for the adventure, are all over the central area of the district.
Bohemian & Romantic Lima - Barranco
Restaurants in Barranco Barranco Beer Co - $ La Verdad de la Milanesa - $ Isolina - $$ La Colonia - $$ Amor Amar - $$$ |
Tips: Barranco is one of the most charming and laid-back corners of the city, full of color and life. It's a great place to take a stroll and admire the architecture and particular style of the district. If you love to explore cities by walking, you can do Miraflores and Barranco in the same day by wandering along the malecón or boardwalk.
*Bonus Stop* - Larco Museum - Pueblo Libre
Tips: The Larco Museum houses a gorgeous private collection of over 40,000 pieces that span 4,000 years of history and civilization in Peruvian territory. The exhibits are fascinating, the building itself is a treasure and the outdoor garden café is absolutely worth stopping by to have a bite.
Want to do it all in one day?
Take the guesswork out and join a cultural, city and food tour of Lima. The route was designed to maximize guests' time by curating a series of stops that represent the best introduction to the country's history, society, traditions, local knowledge and vibrant culinary scene through three districts, Miraflores, Barranco and San Isidro. From tasting menus to an interactive cebiche and pisco class, this is the perfect way to do Lima in a day. This food and city tour includes exclusive restaurants, trendy districts, top must-see attractions and hands-on activities. Group tours, private tours and airport transfers can be arranged. Check out the itinerary: Lima food tours
Enjoy Lima!
Enjoy Lima!
Un fin de semana en Lima te da el tiempo perfecto para descubrir y recorrer la mejor de la ciudad. Entre lo cultural, gastronómico y en términos de paisajes, ya que la capital peruana se encuentra encima de unos acantilados con vistas increíbles del Océano Pacífico y los primeros cerros de los Andes, es un destino donde lo tienes todo. A veces hasta parece como si tuvieras demasiadas opciones y allí es donde necesitas un par de pistas de un íntimo amigo local para encaminarte hacia un viaje verdaderamente increíble. ¡Felizmente para ti, recomendar qué hacer en Lima es nuestra especialidad! Les dejamos un itinerario que incluye los mejores atractivos de la ciudad que se pueden disfrutar a un ritmo relajado pero que a la vez saca provecho del poco tiempo disponible para enamorarse de su encanto.
DÍA 1 - LA LLEGADA
Suponiendo que hayas estado viajando durante el día y recién llegas a la hora de check-in un viernes por la tarde, lo primero que querrás hacer es dejar las maletas y salir a dar un caminata por el barrio del hotel para familiarizarse con la zona. La mayoría de hoteles se encuentran en los distritos de Miraflores, San Isidro y Barranco y por lo tanto una vueltita para estirarse las piernas es la mejor introducción. Después al hotel para refrescarse y salir para cenar.
El restaurante Cala en la costa verde es una excelente opción para recibir el atardecer junto al mar en la terraza del segundo pisco. Su especialidad es la comida marina (¿cómo no con las vistas y ubicación que tiene?) con platos elaborados para destacar un estilo delicado y fresco pero con sabores robustos. Después de quedarse totalmente satisfechos con la exquisita comida costeña, de repente un bajativo y un poco de música están en orden. Para eso recomendamos que pases al primero piso del restaurante, al lounge donde tienen una zona interior que te lleva a una bella terraza donde puedes explorar el mundo pisquero con un coctel que no solo resalta las propiedades del licor, sino también la variedad de fruta que tan bien acompañan al trago. Lo mejor de ir en verano es que muchas veces los viernes tienen un DJ en el lounge que crea un ambiente realmente divertido.
Entre tanto viaje y una cena que no te dejará con hambre, para muchos, la noche se acaba aquí. Para los que quieren ver un poco más de la vida nocturna limeña, Open Bar en Miraflores y Ayahuasca en Barranco son buenas opciones con otros lugares interesantes cerca por si te provoca tener varias alternativas.
Entre tanto viaje y una cena que no te dejará con hambre, para muchos, la noche se acaba aquí. Para los que quieren ver un poco más de la vida nocturna limeña, Open Bar en Miraflores y Ayahuasca en Barranco son buenas opciones con otros lugares interesantes cerca por si te provoca tener varias alternativas.
DÍA 2 - AVENTURA CULTURAL Y CULINARIA
Si estás considerando viajar a Perú, seguramente ya sabes que Lima es una meca gastronómica que atrae a miles de peregrinos culinarios al año para deleitar de su variado repertorio en la cocina. Tanto así que el país ha ganado el título de Mejor destino culinario del mundo en los World Travel Awards los últimos cinco años. Ya te hemos convencido, ¿pero ahora cómo puedes elegir entre tantas opciones, reviews, recomendaciones de amigos? Te presentamos la solución perfecta - un tour gastronómico de la ciudad. La idea es que en cinco horas llegas a tener una introducción comprensiva a la ciudad que incluye varios distritos, un café orgánico peruano donde tuestan los granos a diario, una vista a un mercado local con su degustación de frutas, una clase participativa de cebiche y pisco sour, y un almuerzo de varios platos y postres peruanos junto a una ruinas impresionantes preincaicas. Entre toda la comida, los restaurantes, los mercados y las callecitas por explorar, también se cubren los temas culturales, socio-económicos, fusiones multiculturales y partes destacadas de la historia que han creado la ciudad que hoy conocemos. Nosotros ofrecemos dos rutas que han tenido tanto éxito que nos ha mantenido en el puesto número uno de Tripadvisor los útimos cinco años entre todos los tours de Lima con lo que no tiene pierde.
Para bajar la comida y darte una oportunidad de ver otro lado de la ciudad, podrías dirigirte al centro histórico de Lima, o el damero de Pizarro conocido localmente. Te tomas tu taxi hasta la Plaza de Armas donde podrán conocer el palacio presidencial, la catedral de Lima y a un par de cuadras, el Monasterio de San Francisco con sus catacumbas. Ojo - la mayoría de museos/iglesias solo ofrecen entradas hasta las 5:00 PM y por lo tanto querrás estar atento a la hora. En la misma zona, también se encuentra la Plaza San Martín y luce un estilo arquitectónico que te llevará a otra época.
Después del recorrido histórico y la inmersión cultural, ya estarás empezando a recobrar el apetito. Los tours gastronómicos suelen dejar a algunos visitantes con un poco menos espacio en la barriga de lo normal así que una cena donde hay opciones para porciones ligeras es lo más recomendable. Osaka en la avenida Pardo y Aliaga en San Isidro es el lugar ideal que ofrece una fusión peruana-japonesa, o nikkei, que cuenta con mucho más que solo sushi. Desde la entrada al nivel de la calle, la experiencia es impactante, Bajas unas escaleras y de repente te encuentras en un sitio de lo más chic. El diseño interior, el servicio y la comida son impecables. Asegúrate de conseguir reserva antes de ir porque el restaurante siempre está reventando.
DÍA 3 - AVENTURA CULTURAL Y CULINARIA
Al ser el último día del viaje, hay quienes preferirían tomar la mañana tranquila para desayunar en el hotel o para salir a comprar un regalo que otro. Para los que quieren aprovechar la mañana y meter el último esfuerzo en conocer la oferta cultural, el Museo Larco es infaltable, fácilmente unos de los mejores museos del país entero. La colección privada recopila y exhibe artefactos que cubren cuatro mil años de historia en el territorio peruano - joyas, máscaras, cerámica, incluso tienen algo bien especial - todo un cuarto de cerámica erótica. Hasta el depósito está abierto al público donde podrás admirar 40,000 piezas más que no están exhibidas en ese momento.
Para cerrar la aventura culinaria con broche de oro, llega antes de la 1 PM para almorzar en Isolina de Barranco. Es una maravilla que se encuentra en los top 50 restaurantes de América Latina y su especialidad es la comida auténtica peruana con un toque casero que trae una tremenda calidez a la experiencia. Es una taberna moderna de moda y el seco y el lomo saltado están impresionantes. La porciones son generosas y en realidad para compartir.
A unos minutos caminando, encontrarás el Museo MATE, de uno de los fotógrafos más reconocidos en el mundo, el peruano Mario Testino. Las exhibiciones siempre son lindas, sobre todo la permanente de tradiciones cusqueñas coloridas y las fotos de la Princesa Diana.
El fin del viaje ya es inminente y no hay mejor forma de digerir todo lo que has vivido en los últimos días que con una tradición bien limeña (sobre todos los domingos), darse una caminata por el malecón. Desde Barranco, puedes seguir el malecón hasta llegar a Miraflores e incluso de repente a tu hotel, donde llegarás a preparar la maleta y salir hacia el aeropuerto para volver a tu casa y presumir con tus familiares y amigos sobre tu experiencia limeña.
¡Buen viaje!
Datos de interés
Restaurants in Lima add up to tens of thousands of options for dining out in the city with an even larger variety of dishes that are representative of Peruvian traditions, culture and fusions. If you do your research, you can surely narrow the offer down to a few must-visit spots to include in your itinerary. The real doozy, however, is what to order once you square away the reservation and make your way to the restaurant. If you are unfamiliar with Peruvian cuisine, even though you may speak some Spanish, selecting the perfect dishes can be a daunting task. As operators of the highest-ranked food tour in Lima for the past six years, you can imagine that our research and development includes frequent visits to a number of restaurants to try a variety of dishes so that we can give the best recommendations to our clients. We would like to shed some light on the results of all that tough work by sharing our favorite dishes in Lima and where to find them.

This is likely a restaurant that you’ll find on many lists and for good reason. The laid-back ambience and cozy, fresh style of the place will lure you in, but the food and drinks will keep you there. If you are a seafood lover, you simply cannot go wrong booking a table here.
What to order: Pulpo a la parrilla (grilled octopus) – The octopus is marinated in a secret concoction and then cooked to perfection on the grill, served smoking hot and accompanied by grilled cherry tomatoes, potatoes and mushrooms. Amazing. An added bonus for the chefs among you, if you sit bar-side, you can watch the guys work their magic and see how it’s done.
What to order: Pulpo a la parrilla (grilled octopus) – The octopus is marinated in a secret concoction and then cooked to perfection on the grill, served smoking hot and accompanied by grilled cherry tomatoes, potatoes and mushrooms. Amazing. An added bonus for the chefs among you, if you sit bar-side, you can watch the guys work their magic and see how it’s done.

Amaz has won a number of awards from the food to the interior design, both which so elegantly reflect a refined Amazonian style. What’s more is that the restaurant is fully committed to sustainable consumption, so you know you’re participating in a dining experience that has been fully thought through.
What to order: Lomo saltado amazónico (Amazonian stir-fried sirloin steak) – While the classic lomo saltado is one Peru’s flagship dishes representing the Chinese-Peruvian culinary fusion, Amaz gives the dish a unique twist. The original version includes strips of sirloin steak stir-fried with tomatoes, onions, yellow chili pepper and soy sauce, Amaz adds a smoky flavor, sun-dried Amazonian pork called cecina and sweet jungle peppers. The combination of flavors is heavenly.
What to order: Lomo saltado amazónico (Amazonian stir-fried sirloin steak) – While the classic lomo saltado is one Peru’s flagship dishes representing the Chinese-Peruvian culinary fusion, Amaz gives the dish a unique twist. The original version includes strips of sirloin steak stir-fried with tomatoes, onions, yellow chili pepper and soy sauce, Amaz adds a smoky flavor, sun-dried Amazonian pork called cecina and sweet jungle peppers. The combination of flavors is heavenly.

One of Lima’s most successful newcomers, Jeronimo, introduces the Mexican-Peruvian fusion to the culinary scene. This is a lively spot, great for both lunch and dinner, which has wonderful service, fantastic music and a fun, but chic feeling vibe. All of the dishes are presented beautifully, as works of art and labors of love and the citrus/spicy undertones of the food make the dishes unforgettable.
What to order: Conos de atún (Tuna tartar cones) – When you first read the title of this dish, it may stop you in your tracks; however, it’s totally worth the adventure. The tuna is incredibly fresh and served with a flavorful guacamole, all molded into a delicately crisp cone. So creative and so delicious.
What to order: Conos de atún (Tuna tartar cones) – When you first read the title of this dish, it may stop you in your tracks; however, it’s totally worth the adventure. The tuna is incredibly fresh and served with a flavorful guacamole, all molded into a delicately crisp cone. So creative and so delicious.

It’s no surprise that Isolina made the list. Ever since the place opened, it’s had lines outside that can wrap around the corner and it made its way on to the list of best restaurants in Latin America. The concept is an old-school tavern that features classic Peruvian dishes that give the feel of home-cooking. This Peruvian soul food induces nostalgia for the locals and provides an insider experience for visitors.
What to order: Seco (Cilantro beef stew) – If you are a cilantro-lover, this dish would be your favorite. While you can find this Peruvian classic on many menus throughout Lima, the preparation of seco at Isolina is impeccable. The beef is so tender that it slides right off the bone allowing you to bathe the meat in the rich, aromatic cilantro stew. It’s just one of those dishes that after eating it, you'll already be contemplating when to organize your next visit for round two.
What to order: Seco (Cilantro beef stew) – If you are a cilantro-lover, this dish would be your favorite. While you can find this Peruvian classic on many menus throughout Lima, the preparation of seco at Isolina is impeccable. The beef is so tender that it slides right off the bone allowing you to bathe the meat in the rich, aromatic cilantro stew. It’s just one of those dishes that after eating it, you'll already be contemplating when to organize your next visit for round two.
Restaurant details
El Mercado
Av. Hipólito Unánue 203, Miraflores
Tues.-Sun. 12:30 - 5:00 PM
T: +51 (1) 221 1322
Amaz
Av. La Paz 1079, Miraflores
Mon.-Sun. 12:30 - 11:30 PM
T: +51 (1) 221 9393
Jerónimo
Av. La Mar 1209, Miraflores
Tues.-Sat. 1:00 - 3:30 PM / 7:00 - 11:00 PM}
Sun. 1:00 - 4:00 PM
T: +51 (1) 494 7336
Isolina
Av. San Martin 101, Barranco
Tues.-Sat. 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Sun.-Mon. 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
T: +51 (1) 247 5075
Av. Hipólito Unánue 203, Miraflores
Tues.-Sun. 12:30 - 5:00 PM
T: +51 (1) 221 1322
Amaz
Av. La Paz 1079, Miraflores
Mon.-Sun. 12:30 - 11:30 PM
T: +51 (1) 221 9393
Jerónimo
Av. La Mar 1209, Miraflores
Tues.-Sat. 1:00 - 3:30 PM / 7:00 - 11:00 PM}
Sun. 1:00 - 4:00 PM
T: +51 (1) 494 7336
Isolina
Av. San Martin 101, Barranco
Tues.-Sat. 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Sun.-Mon. 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
T: +51 (1) 247 5075
Vegetarian restaurants in Lima may sound like a tall order to fill, however Peru is no newcomer to the foodie scene and vegetarians certainly have a place at the table to enjoy this culinary capital’s creations. With nearly 300 national dishes, as you can imagine, there is something here for everyone. Peru was the first country in the world to declare GMOs illegal so you can rest assured that the colors, flavors and shapes of the country’s remarkable produce are as natural as it gets. Out of the world’s 113 microclimates, Peru boasts being home to 90 of them, meaning that the biodiversity found in this South American gem is out of this world. Lima, as the country’s capital, therefore has a number of options that showcase the multitude of fruits, veggies and grains available to health-conscious patrons looking for a bite to eat. Below you’ll find our top three favorite vegetarian restaurants in Lima:
Raw Café
This adorable corner tucked away in Miraflores offers vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free (and obviously raw) options. The diverse menu contains wraps, bowls, salads, sandwiches, burgers, pizzas and desserts. The outdoor seating makes it a great place to get some fresh air while enjoying a healthy meal.
Address: Mariano Odicio 432, Miraflores
Hours: 8:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Telephone: +51 (1) 241 7696
Website: www.rawcafe.com.pe/
Hours: 8:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Telephone: +51 (1) 241 7696
Website: www.rawcafe.com.pe/
Germinando Vida
Keeping true to the artsy, bohemian vibe of the Barranco district, Germinando Vida is a lovely little place that feels very warm and cozy. The overhead string of lights and exposed brick walls allow you to settle in to a slower pace and really enjoy the food. The dishes are delicious and really highlight the better qualities of some of Peru’s superfoods.
Address: Av. Almte. Miguel Grau 209A, Barranco
Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM / 5:30 – 11:00 PM
Telephone: +51 (1) 300 0602
Website: https://www.facebook.com/Germinandovi
Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM / 5:30 – 11:00 PM
Telephone: +51 (1) 300 0602
Website: https://www.facebook.com/Germinandovi
El Jardin de Jazmín
More than just a spot to satisfy those hunger pangs, El Jardín de Jazmín is a self-styled “Vegan resto-bar for art and culture.” From the walls, to the tables to the food itself, the locale is brimming with color and design. Not only that, but show up on a Saturday evening or Sunday afternoon and you could be in for a real treat with live entertainment from musicians to magicians depending on the day you go.
Address: Av. la Paz 838, Miraflores
Hours: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Telephone: +51 993 731 598
Website: https://www.facebook.com/eljardindejazmin/
Hours: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Telephone: +51 993 731 598
Website: https://www.facebook.com/eljardindejazmin/
In a city like Lima, with so many top restaurants, the difficulty is which one to choose. In this article we will focus on what we consider some of the best romantic restaurants in Lima based on atmosphere, quality of food and service.
THE HUACA PUCLLANA | General Borgoño, cuadra 8, Miraflores | T: 445.4042
This is a very unique restaurant as the terrace is right next to an ancient pre-Incan ruin, creating an incredible atmosphere. The décor is simple but classy as they try to maintain the overall sensation of going back in time. The food and service compliment the whole experience as you get to sample some of the best traditional Peruvian dishes Lima has to offer. Their wine cellar is also stellar in case you need extra motivation.
CALA | Circuito de playas, Barranco | T: 252.9187
Is there anything more romantic than a dinner next to the sea? We love Cala for its location right on the Pacific Ocean and for its awesome seafood (among many other delectable choices). The restaurant has two levels, so after a nice meal you can go downstairs to the terrace and party with the Limeño socialites or just unwind watching the waves crash against the pier.
LA PLAZITA | San Fernando 380, Miraflores | T: 621.0892
In case you haven’t noticed yet, we love terraces! There are not many al fresco options in Lima but one that certainly ticks all the boxes for a great night is La Plazita. The food is an excellent mix of Mediterranean with Peruvian and the ambience is very chill and relaxed. This is a great option for a hot summer night or even lunch.
LIMA 27 | Calle Santa Luisa 295, San Isidro | T: 221.5822
This restaurant is located in the posh district of San Isidro, right next to the famous Astrid & Gaston. Lima 27 has a great bar and food menu to match it. The ambience is vibrant and the food is sophisticated without being pretentious. Like Cala, it offers the possibility of staying after dinner for another cocktail (or before dinner) in the gorgeous patio bar.
MATRIA | Mendiburu 823, Miraflores | T: 422.2784
We love this place for its tranquil and romantic environment. Despite being located on a quiet street in the district of Miraflores, locals love it and it has gained a great reputation for the quality of the food and personalized service. The menu is very creative and fresh as they change it every season. Great wines or Piscos will make your experience even more memorable.
Looking for places to eat in Lima? Don't overlook your breakfast options. Artisanal bakeries, like Pan de la Chola, have been creating plenty of buzz among visitors and locals alike so it's refreshing to see more boutique-style bakeries open up around the city.
One of the newest players to satisfy Limeño carb cravings is La Panetteria in Barranco. While they only have five or six tables, it's still under the radar so you can beat the crowds that are flocking to some of the other more high-profile spots. There are a number of options that cater to all tastes: those with a bit of sweet tooth (think chocolate filled croissants), health nuts (avocados filled with fresh tomatoes, parsely and sprouts), as well as traditionalists who want their coffee, toast and juice while they skim over the morning headlines.
Definitely worth venturing outside of Miraflores!
Location:
Avenida Grau 369, Barranco
Lima, Peru
T: (01) 4698260
One of the newest players to satisfy Limeño carb cravings is La Panetteria in Barranco. While they only have five or six tables, it's still under the radar so you can beat the crowds that are flocking to some of the other more high-profile spots. There are a number of options that cater to all tastes: those with a bit of sweet tooth (think chocolate filled croissants), health nuts (avocados filled with fresh tomatoes, parsely and sprouts), as well as traditionalists who want their coffee, toast and juice while they skim over the morning headlines.
Definitely worth venturing outside of Miraflores!
Location:
Avenida Grau 369, Barranco
Lima, Peru
T: (01) 4698260
Tourism in Lima is to receive an extra boost for the fourth year in a row thanks to the fantastic quality of its food. The prestigious World Travel Awards voted Peru, again, as the Best Culinary Destination in the World. Peru has been awarded this top spot for four consecutive years, beating well established foodie destinations such as Italy, France, China, Thailand and the United States. The recognition consolidates Peru as the hottest foodie destination. Three of the top restaurants in the world are based in Lima, including Central, which this year was voted as the best restaurant in the Americas and number four in the world.
The emergence of Peru as a major destination for food lovers who are curious to find out what all the fuss is about means that Lima is no longer a layover destination, but an attractive destination of its own merit. The number of visitors to Lima has steadily increased over the last few years and nobody can deny that food is playing a major role.
We've done our homework for you and scoured the world's best restaurant lists to bring you the top restaurants that are based in Peru.
The World's 50 Best Restaurants - San Pellegrino & Acqua Panna
#4 - Central
Head Chef: Virgilio Martínez & Pía León
Calle Santa Isabel 376, Miraflores, Lima
+51 1 242 8515
http://centralrestaurante.com.pe/
Calle Santa Isabel 376, Miraflores, Lima
+51 1 242 8515
http://centralrestaurante.com.pe/
#14 - Astrid y Gastón
Head Chef: Diego Muñoz
Av. Paz Soldán 290, San Isidro, Lima 27
+511 442 2775
http://www.astridygaston.com/
Av. Paz Soldán 290, San Isidro, Lima 27
+511 442 2775
http://www.astridygaston.com/
#44 - Maido
Now let's get region-specific and look at the best restaurants in Latin America for 2015.
#1 - Central
#3 - Astrid y Gastón
#5 - Maido
#12 - La Mar
#3 - Astrid y Gastón
#5 - Maido
#12 - La Mar
Head Chef: Andrés Rodríguez
Av. La Mar 770, Miraflores, Lima
+51 1 421 3365
http://www.lamarcebicheria.com/lima/
Av. La Mar 770, Miraflores, Lima
+51 1 421 3365
http://www.lamarcebicheria.com/lima/
#20 - Malabar
Head Chef: Pedro Miguel Schiaffino
Camino Real 101, San Isidro, Lima
+51 1 440 5200
http://www.malabar.com.pe/
Camino Real 101, San Isidro, Lima
+51 1 440 5200
http://www.malabar.com.pe/
#31 - Fiesta
Head Chef: Virgina Najarro Gamboa
Av. Reducto 1278 Miraflores, Lima
+51 1 242 9009
http://www.restaurantfiestagourmet.com/
Av. Reducto 1278 Miraflores, Lima
+51 1 242 9009
http://www.restaurantfiestagourmet.com/
#34 - Osso Carnicería y Salumería
#36 - La Picantería
Head Chef: Héctor Solís
Francisco Moreno 388, Surquillo, Lima
+51 1 241 6676
http://www.picanteriasdelperu.com/
Francisco Moreno 388, Surquillo, Lima
+51 1 241 6676
http://www.picanteriasdelperu.com/
#50 - Rafael
Head Chef: Ricardo Martins
Calle San Martín 300, Miraflores, Lima
+51 1 242 4149
http://www.rafaelosterling.pe/
Calle San Martín 300, Miraflores, Lima
+51 1 242 4149
http://www.rafaelosterling.pe/
With nine delicious options, you should be set to have a delectable experience in Lima, Peru.
Restaurants in Lima, Peru are now in the thousands, many offering any number of traditional Peruvian dishes. Even as a first time visitor, you may be familiar with many dishes, such as cebiche, lomo saltado or anticuchos. With this list, we propose that you step off the beaten path and away from classic picks, instead treating your taste buds to dynamic combinations of local flavors. If you are looking to make the most of your time, you can check out our Lima food tours and we'll guide you in the right direction.
1. Pollo Canga
Chicken is undoubtedly king of the meats in Peru. While rotisserie style chicken is an all-time favorite, we encourage you to reach outside of the box for a more creative and exotic dish. The pollo canga at Amaz restaurant is made with free-range chicken marinated in Amazonian spices and served with a peanut and coconut foam from the same region. |
2. Cebiche Nikkei
Cebiche has become synonomous with Peruvian cuisine on the international scene in the last few years. It generally brings to mind delicate, white fish in lime juice with aromas of cilantro, chili peppers and onions that float up from the dish. Spice things up with an Asian-fusion cebiche, featuring tuna, soy sauce and sesame seeds to bring your palate to life. You can try a cebiche nikkei at one of the top cebicherías in Miraflores, El Mercado. |
3. Milanesa a tu gusto
The legacy of the milanesa in Peru tells of the Italian migratory wave that came to the country after Peruvian independence in 1821. It's one of those comfort foods that warms the soul. At La Verdad de la Milanesa, you can have it your way; forget about the boring, breaded, pan-fried chicken filet. At this Barranco gem, you have your pick of chicken, beef, fish or a vegetarian base, you choose your own topping and tasty side dish - we recommend the sweet potato fries. |
4. Rocoto Relleno de Mariscos
Traditionally from the southern city of Arequipa, the spicy rocoto pepper is stuffed with beef, raisins, peanuts, fresh Andean cheese and spices. It's a hearty meal that will warm you up in no time. For a Limeño twist, order a rocoto stuffed with juicy calamari and other delights from the sea. You can order this spectacular take on an old favorite at La Mar. |
5. BLT Charapita
Going out to eat in Peru is a social activity, like in most countries. In Lima, one place has adopted the concept of serving Peruvian dishes, tapas-style so patrons can try a wider variety of delicious, small bites. At Barrio, they don't serve your typical BLT, instead they've given this classic a jungle twist. The bite-size sandwich is served with sun-dried grilled pork (cecina), lettuce, tomato and a mayonnaise made from the Amazonian fruit cocona and spicy, fragrant, charapita peppers from the same region. |
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Things to do in Lima that make people fall in love with the city - that's precisely what we're after. We're Lucas and Sam, a Peruvian-American couple who have run the top tour in Lima for the past seven years. It’s no coincidence that the best activities in Lima have to do with Peru’s amazing cuisine. This Kansas City girl and Lima native have lived all over the world in their corporate past lives but they traded in the daily grind for sharing their love of good food, showing off the city’s secrets and meeting awesome people along the way.
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No planning needed because we've already done the work for you. Experience the best of Lima in one day.
No planning needed because we've already done the work for you. Experience the best of Lima in one day.