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If you think of Peru solely as the land of the Incas, Machu Picchu, and gastronomic adventures, you might be surprised to learn it also boasts a thriving luxury ecosystem. As someone who has made Peru my home and built a business sharing its culinary treasures, I’m equally passionate about the artisanal and high-end shopping experiences that perfectly complement a trip to this culturally rich country. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places in Peru to find exclusive boutiques, renowned local designers, and unique treasures. Whether you’re an individual planning a luxury trip to Peru or a travel agency curating bespoke itineraries, you’ll find this guide invaluable.  Why Shop in Peru?Peru is a country where ancient traditions blend with modern innovation in a chaotic, though sometimes paired-back intersection, evident in its luxury shopping scene, where you’ll find:
Shopping in Peru isn’t just about acquiring items—it’s about discovering stories and connecting with the country’s vibrant culture. Top Luxury Shopping Destinations in Peru1. Lima: The Heart of Peruvian Style Lima, Peru’s capital, is the epicenter of luxury shopping. With upscale neighborhoods and design-forward spaces, Lima is where you’ll find the best blend of tradition and sophistication.
2. Cusco: Artisanal Elegance in the Andes Cusco’s charm extends far beyond its cobblestone streets and ancient ruins. The city offers a unique luxury shopping experience steeped in Andean culture.
3. Arequipa: The White City’s Hidden Gems Arequipa, with its stunning colonial architecture, offers equally impressive luxury shopping options.
Must-Have Peruvian Luxuries
FAQ: Your Luxury Shopping in Peru Questions AnsweredWhat makes Peruvian alpaca products so special? Alpaca wool, especially from baby alpacas, is one of the finest fibers in the world. Lightweight, hypoallergenic, and incredibly soft, it’s a sustainable luxury that’s uniquely Peruvian. Can I find globally recognized brands in Peru? Yes! Upscale malls like Larcomar in Lima feature international luxury brands. However, we recommend exploring local designers and artisans for one-of-a-kind items. How can travel agencies incorporate luxury shopping into itineraries? Pair shopping excursions with cultural experiences. For example, combine a morning of exploring Cusco’s artisan markets with a visit to the Sacred Valley. In Lima, mix a boutique shopping outing with an evening food tour. Beyond Shopping: Curating the Perfect Luxury Experience in PeruPairing luxury shopping with Peru’s world-renowned culinary scene elevates your trip to unforgettable heights. At Lima Gourmet Company, we specialize in creating bespoke food tours that complement any itinerary. Whether you’re indulging in a Peruvian cooking class or savoring a Pisco tasting on a gourmet food tour, you’ll experience the best Peru has to offer. Partner with Lima Gourmet Company If you’re a travel agency, consider us your go-to partner for creating elevated Peruvian experiences. Let’s work together to show travelers the very best of Peru. Peru’s luxury shopping scene is as rich and diverse as its culture. From exquisite alpaca garments to handcrafted jewelry, it offers something special for every traveler. So, whether you’re planning your next adventure or curating trips for others, let Peru’s exclusive boutiques and local designers be a highlight of the journey.
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 When planning a luxury trip to Peru, finding accommodations that combine elegance with an authentic cultural experience can elevate your journey from memorable to magical. Whether you’re an individual traveler crafting the adventure of a lifetime or a travel agency curating an extraordinary itinerary for your clients, this guide showcases Peru's most exquisite hotels. These properties deliver not only impeccable service but also a deep connection to Peru’s rich heritage, cuisine, and natural beauty. Why Choose Luxury Hotels in Peru?Peru is a land of contrasts, where ancient history and modern sophistication collide. The country boasts accommodations that seamlessly integrate opulent comfort with cultural authenticity. From five-star urban retreats to boutique hideaways in the Andes, Peru’s luxury hotels are designed to pamper discerning travelers while immersing them in the local experience. FAQs About Luxury Hotels in Peru:
LIMA: MODERN SOPHISTICATION & CULINARY DELIGHTS 1. Hotel B Location: Barranco, Lima Highlights: A Relais & Châteaux property, Hotel B is housed in a beautifully restored Belle Époque mansion in Lima’s bohemian district. Each room is adorned with art pieces, making it feel like a living gallery. The rooftop terrace is perfect for sipping a pisco sour while gazing at the Pacific. Why it’s perfect: Hotel B offers a luxurious introduction to Peru with its artistic charm and proximity to Barranco’s vibrant art scene and top restaurants. 2. Belmond Miraflores Park Location: Miraflores, Lima Highlights: Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this five-star property is known for its rooftop pool, indulgent spa treatments, and refined dining experiences. The Belmond Miraflores Park is a favorite for travelers seeking both tranquility and convenience in Lima. Why it’s perfect: Its location on the Malecón and near Lima’s top culinary spots makes it ideal for foodies and luxury seekers alike. 3. JW Marriott Lima Location: Miraflores, Lima Highlights: This high-rise hotel offers sweeping ocean views and impeccable service. The executive lounge is a favorite for business travelers, while its proximity to Larcomar and luxury shopping makes the JW Marriott a standout for leisure guests. Why it’s perfect: A blend of modern amenities and unbeatable location for exploring Lima’s best attractions. CUSCO: GATEWAY TO HISTORY AND CULTURE4. Belmond Hotel Monasterio Location: Cusco Highlights: This former monastery-turned-hotel combines colonial architecture with modern luxury. Located just steps from the Plaza de Armas, the Belmond Hotel Monasterio offers gourmet dining and rooms enriched with oxygen to combat Cusco’s altitude. Why it’s perfect: Staying here feels like a journey through history, paired with the comforts of a five-star retreat. 5. Palacio Nazarenas, A Belmond Hotel Location: Cusco Highlights: This all-suite property boasts a stunning courtyard, a heated outdoor pool, and a focus on personalized service. Each suite comes with a 24-hour butler service at Palacio Nazarenas. Why it’s perfect: For those seeking an intimate and luxurious experience in the heart of Cusco’s historic district. 6. Inkaterra La Casona Location: Cusco Highlights: A boutique property with just 11 suites, this restored colonial manor offers a tranquil, exclusive atmosphere. Each room at Inkaterra La Casona is individually designed with Andean touches. Why it’s perfect: Perfect for those who value privacy and understated elegance. SACRED VALLEY: NATURE'S LUXURY PLAYGROUND 7. Tambo del Inka, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa Location: Urubamba Highlights: With direct access to the Urubamba River and a private train station to Machu Picchu, Tambo del Inka blends adventure with luxury. The spa treatments and farm-to-table cuisine are standout features. Why it’s perfect: It’s a haven for those looking to relax and recharge before or after visiting Machu Picchu. 8. Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba Location: Sacred Valley Highlights: Surrounded by mountains, this eco-luxury property emphasizes sustainability and cultural immersion. The suites and casitas at Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba are designed to reflect local traditions with modern comforts. Why it’s perfect: It’s ideal for travelers who want a serene escape with a focus on nature and authenticity. 9. Sol y Luna Relais & Châteaux Location: Sacred Valley Highlights: Known for its vibrant gardens and stunning casitas, Sol y Luna combines luxury with a commitment to the local community. Its on-site Peruvian Paso horse stables are a unique feature. Why it’s perfect: For families and solo travelers alike, the activities here offer something for everyone. LAKE TITICACA: TRANQUILITY AT GREAT HEIGHTS 10. Titilaka Lodge Location: Lake Titicaca Highlights: This remote luxury lodge offers breathtaking views of Lake Titicaca from every room. Guests at Titilaka Lodge can enjoy kayaking, cycling, and cultural excursions with a touch of indulgence. Why it’s perfect: It’s an unparalleled destination for those seeking serenity and a deep connection with local traditions. THE AMAZON: UNTOUCHED LUXURY 11. Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica Location: Tambopata Highlights: Nestled in the Amazon rainforest, this eco-lodge offers a luxurious way to experience one of the world’s most biodiverse regions. Guests at the Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica can explore canopy walkways, night safaris, and river excursions. Why it’s perfect: It’s the ultimate escape for nature lovers who don’t want to compromise on comfort. FAQs: Planning Your Luxury Stay in Peru
Why Partner with The Lima Gourmet Company?At Lima Gourmet Company, we’ve spent years cultivating our knowledge of Peru’s best hotels, restaurants, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a solo traveler looking for the ultimate luxury getaway or a travel agency curating bespoke itineraries, we offer insider expertise to make your Peru adventure exceptional. Contact us today to explore how we can enhance your experience with unique culinary tours and profound cultural excursions.
Discover the best fine dining restaurants in Peru, from Lima’s culinary hotspots to exceptional Sacred Valley gems, and indulge in world-class cuisine during your luxury trip.  You better believe that when Lucas and I travel, we do a deep dive into the local foodie scene. I don’t want to waste a single bite of my vacation—although, let’s be honest, we do leave a little room for snacks and surprises. Here in Peru, though, there’s no need to leave much to chance. With a rich culinary heritage and a modern gastronomic revolution, the fine dining scene here can turn even the simplest ingredients into an experience worth savoring. If you’re looking for the best restaurants in Peru to wow your sophisticated palate or impress your most discerning clients, I’ve got you covered. Let’s dig in! The Rise of Peruvian Cuisine: Why Food Lovers Are Flocking to PeruPeru has made a name for itself as one of the world’s premier culinary destinations, and for good reason. Lima has been named the World’s Leading Culinary Destination multiple times by the World Travel Awards, and Peruvian chefs are renowned for their ability to blend tradition with innovation. But what makes Peruvian cuisine so special? It’s the unique fusion of flavors, from the indigenous traditions of the Andes to influences from Spain, Japan, China, and Africa. With ingredients like aji peppers, Amazonian fruits, and fresh seafood from the Pacific, the possibilities are endless.  Lima’s Finest Dining: Must-Try Restaurants in the Capital1. Central If you’re looking for the pinnacle of fine dining in Peru, Central is where you need to be. Run by chef Virgilio Martínez, this restaurant has consistently ranked in the top 5 of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants. Central’s menu takes you on a journey through Peru’s diverse ecosystems, with dishes representing altitudes from the Andes to the Amazon. Think of it as edible geography.
2. Maido Blending Japanese techniques with Peruvian ingredients, chef Mitsuharu Tsumura’s Maido is the epitome of Nikkei cuisine. The multi-course tasting menu is a work of art, and every bite tells a story of Peru’s immigrant heritage.
3. Isolina For a taste of elevated Peruvian comfort food, Isolina is the place to go. Chef José del Castillo brings traditional Creole dishes to life in a cozy yet sophisticated setting. It’s a great spot for sharing dishes with a group.
4. Kjolle Led by chef Pía León, Kjolle celebrates the diversity of Peruvian ingredients with a focus on vibrant and colorful presentations. Its innovative menu offers à la carte options as well as tasting menus that showcase the natural beauty of local produce.
5. Mérito Located in the artsy district of Barranco, Mérito combines Venezuelan and Peruvian flavors in a creative and bold way. This cozy spot is a favorite for those seeking something unique yet undeniably Peruvian.
 Exploring Cusco and the Sacred Valley: Exceptional Dining Experiences1. MIL Located near the Moray archaeological site, MIL is another brainchild of Virgilio Martínez. This one-of-a-kind restaurant explores the relationship between ancient Andean agriculture and modern gastronomy, making it as much an educational experience as it is a culinary one.
2. ALQA Nestled in Ollantaytambo, ALQA offers an artistic blend of local ingredients and contemporary techniques. With its intimate atmosphere and creative dishes, it’s a gem in the Sacred Valley.
3. Uchu Steakhouse For steak lovers, Uchu is a must-visit. This elegant steakhouse combines premium cuts with Peruvian spices and side dishes, offering an indulgent and hearty dining experience.
4. Morena In the heart of Cusco, Morena is a vibrant spot that serves up creative takes on traditional Peruvian cuisine. With its warm ambiance and modern plating, it’s perfect for both casual and special occasions.
5. Cicciolina A charming blend of rustic and refined, Cicciolina serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Its tapas bar is particularly popular for a relaxed yet high-quality dining experience.
 Insider Tips for Dining in PeruWhether you’re traveling on your own or curating a trip for clients, here are some tips to make the most of Peru’s fine dining scene:
FAQs About Fine Dining in PeruWhat is the best time to visit Peru for a culinary experience? The best time for a culinary-focused trip to Peru anytime! But keep in mind that the rainy season in Cusco runs from November to March, which are the warmer months in Lima. What should I expect to pay at Peru’s top restaurants? Prices vary, but for a tasting menu at a world-class restaurant like Central, expect to pay around $400 per person, excluding wine pairings, and for other top spots around $150. Is it necessary to book reservations in advance? Yes! Top restaurants like Central and Maido fill up quickly. Aim to book at least 1–2 months ahead for a guaranteed spot. Are dietary restrictions accommodated? Most high-end restaurants in Peru are well-equipped to handle dietary restrictions. Be sure to inform them when making your reservation. Final Thoughts: Why Peru Is a Fine Dining ParadiseWhether it’s your first time in Peru or your tenth, the culinary experiences here are guaranteed to leave you craving more. From the Andes to the Amazon, every dish tells a story of Peru’s rich culture and history, elevated by some of the best chefs in the world.
If you’re planning a luxury trip to Peru, don’t miss the chance to indulge in these top restaurants. And if you need help curating a truly unforgettable experience, you know where to find us at Lima Gourmet Company. Let’s make your trip… deliciously memorable! ¡Buen viaje y buen provecho!  With Lima hosting the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, visitors have a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant capital of Peru. Lima's rich history, diverse culture, and economic growth make it an ideal destination for conference attendees looking to experience South America. As a leading tour operator in the city, our passion is helping people fall in love with the place we call home. We’ve pooled our knowledge to bring you recommendations for a journey through Lima's cultural, economic, and social landscape, filled with immersive experiences and unique adventures during APEC Lima, Peru. Historical LimaImmerse yourself in Lima's colonial past and explore its historic landmarks and architectural marvels. From the bustling Plaza Mayor to the tranquil San Francisco Monastery, Day 1 offers a glimpse into Lima's rich heritage.
Culinary DelightsExperience the vibrant flavors and culinary diversity of Lima, known as the gastronomic capital of South America. From cooking classes to gourmet dining experiences, Lima is a feast for the senses.
Cultural ImmersionDive into Lima's ebullient cultural scene, from its museums to its ancient ruins, and modern cultural offering.
Reflection and DepartureAs your time in Lima comes to an end, try and take a moment to reflect on the experiences and memories you've created during APEC Lima, Peru. Whether you explored Lima's historical landmarks, indulged in its culinary delights, or engaged with its sustainable development initiatives, your journey will have deepened your understanding of Peru's culture, economy, and society.
As you bid farewell to Lima, carry with you the warmth of its people, the flavors of its cuisine, and the beauty of its landscapes. Until we meet again, may your experiences in Lima continue to inspire you and fuel your passion for exploration and discovery.  Are you dreaming of exploring Peru's mesmerizing landscapes, vibrant cultures, and ancient wonders? Look no further! This comprehensive blog will guide you through crafting the ultimate Peru travel itinerary. Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or cultural connoisseur, Peru has something extraordinary to offer. Join us as we unveil the secrets to a memorable Peruvian adventure. Let's dive into the magic of Peru and create a travel itinerary that suits your interests and preferences. Peru Travel ItineraryPeru is a land of incredible diversity, and crafting the perfect itinerary is key to unlocking its treasures. Picture this – a journey that seamlessly blends the energy of cities, the serenity of nature, and the richness of culture. Our suggestion? A flexible plan that allows you to enjoy the essence of Peru at your own pace. Whether you're exploring bustling markets in Lima, hiking the ancient trails around Machu Picchu, or immersing yourself in the cultural tapestry of Cusco, our itinerary caters to every traveler's desires. Must-Visit Places in PeruPeru boasts a lineup of must-visit places that will leave you breathless. Let's start with the iconic Machu Picchu – a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the Andes. But Peru is more than just Machu Picchu. Explore the historic streets of Cusco, where ancient Inca ruins blend seamlessly with colonial architecture. Lima, the vibrant capital, offers a taste of contemporary Peruvian life with its world-class restaurants and bustling neighborhoods. Or visit Arequipa, the white that rests at the foothills of volcanos. For nature enthusiasts, the Amazon rainforest awaits, teeming with biodiversity, with Tambopata being a top jungle destination. And don't miss the mystical Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, where traditional cultures thrive on its floating islands. How Many Days for a Peru Trip?Now, let's address the burning question – how many days should you spend in Peru? The sweet spot for a Peru trip is 7 to 10 days. While there's no one-size-fits-all answer, this allows you to cover key destinations without rushing, ensuring a well-rounded experience. One aspect you’ll want to consider is the extra time needed to acclimatize to the higher altitudes, especially if you're exploring mountainous regions like Cusco and Machu Picchu. It's a crucial aspect of planning your trip for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. ¡Buen viaje!Thanks for accompanying us on this whirlwind tour of Peru. If you found these tips helpful, hit the like button and subscribe for more travel gems. Your comments are invaluable, so share your Peru travel plans or any tips you've gathered along the way.
Until our next exploration, happy travels, and may your journey through Peru be as enchanting as the destination itself! See you in Lima!  So, you're gearing up for an adventure in Lima, Peru? You've picked an absolute gem. Here we’ll cover insider tips on navigating Lima like a local. From cultural hotspots to historical landmarks and the best spots for indulging in authentic Peruvian cuisine, let's dive into the heart of this vibrant city. Lima Travel Tips: Local InsightsLima might seem sprawling at first, but fear not, there are just a few keys to navigating the transportation, neighborhoods, and must-know tips to make your journey seamless. Getting Around Lima: The Ins and OutsLima's public transportation is a mixed bag of buses, micros, and the Metropolitano - our local express - but for a more comfortable ride, consider taxis. While you’ll see them everywhere, always opt for reputable companies or ride-sharing apps to avoid surprises. The main apps are Cabify, Uber, or Beat. Neighborhood Strolls: Where Locals Hang OutBarranco is the bohemian heart of Lima, bursting with street art, cozy cafes, and a lively arts scene. Miraflores, on the other hand, is known for its upscale vibes, stunning parks, and a cliffside boardwalk offering panoramic ocean views. 
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Sometimes the best way to get to know a city is just by taking a relaxing stroll, catering to your inner flâneur as you saunter along the coast, watching the passersby, and taking in the relaxed west coast vibe. One of the most visually stimulating stretches of Malecón is walking from Miraflores to Barranco until you reach the Bridge of Sighs. You'll find beautifully landscaped parks, a lighthouse, rollerbladers and cyclists, little juice bars and kiosks, paragliders, and of course, the captivating views of Lima's coastline.
With those three activities, you're set. You've got culture, cuisine, and charm, and you will have seen the best of Lima!
Where do you begin planning your trip to Lima, let alone Peru? Nowadays, a wealth of information is 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 unthinkingly trust. What is the next best thing? The perspective of an expat who understands a destination’s culture, history, and nuances while bridging the divide through their own 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 Peru 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 20 years as an expat, eleven of which have been spent in Peru alongside my Lima-born husband, Lucas, helping visitors discover the best of the country. 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 Lima
Lima has 43 districts, or neighborhoods, meaning you’ll have to narrow your visit down to three or four to maximize your wandering. Miraflores, Barranco, San Isidro, and Lima’s historic center will encompass most activities on your itinerary. You may hit a few outliers 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, without hesitation, Miraflores or Barranco.
Miraflores offers a modern view of the city with many shops, upscale restaurants, street food, and 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 60 years. There are beautifully landscaped parks, the coastal promenade, or malecón as it’s known locally, bike lanes and rentals, paragliding, and more. You’ll find international hotel chains like the Marriott (JW, AC, and Courtyard) and Hilton (Garden Inn, Doubletree, and Lima), but getting carried away by the charm of a boutique hotel or quaint B&B adds another layer to your Peru experience. Here are some lovely options that are well-located and are a big hit: Manor House, La Quinta Miraflores Boutique, and Hotel Atemporal.
Miraflores offers a modern view of the city with many shops, upscale restaurants, street food, and 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 60 years. There are beautifully landscaped parks, the coastal promenade, or malecón as it’s known locally, bike lanes and rentals, paragliding, and more. You’ll find international hotel chains like the Marriott (JW, AC, and Courtyard) and Hilton (Garden Inn, Doubletree, and Lima), but getting carried away by the charm of a boutique hotel or quaint B&B adds another layer to your Peru experience. Here are some lovely options that are well-located and are a big hit: Manor House, La Quinta Miraflores Boutique, and Hotel Atemporal.
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 murals 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. Barranco boasts some amazing boutique hotels that allow guests to be fully immersed in the district’s hallmark style. Try Casa Republica or Villa Barranco for an extra special stay in Lima.
What to eat in Lima
If you haven’t tried Peruvian cuisine before now, 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 most extensive section of tips; we 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 eight times 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:
Top restaurants in Lima
Every year San Pellegrino and associates publish a ranking of the world’s 50 best restaurants. Lima is always guaranteed to be represented among the best of the best. So what are they? Central, Maido, and Mayta. As you can imagine, these hot spots fill up months in advance, so plan ahead if you want a seat at the table (pun totally intended). If you’ve left your planning to the last minute, no worries, there are options. Just like any restaurant, the top three also get cancellations, depending on how badly you want to get in, it’s always worth a try to head directly to the restaurant to see if you can nab a table as a walk-in if they’ve received any cancellations or no-shows. We’ve found that in many cases, lady luck is on your side, and guests end up getting in without prior reservations, it just depends.
Other fine dining alternatives in Lima
If you didn’t get the reservation at one of the coveted top three, never fear. Lima has other unique options that are just as good. For molecular gastronomy that turns the dining experience into a full-blown exhibit of artistic expression, Kjolle is the place to be. Guests also tend to book in advance, so if you’re set on Kjolle, try not to procrastinate when making your reservation.
For a fresh-faced but upscale sustainable option, Xoma is an incredible alternative. Peruvian chef Ralf Zúñiga focuses on local products and experiments with ways to give these ingredients new form and function for the palate. Out of the world’s 113 microclimates, Peru is fortunate enough to enjoy 84 of them, which are artfully displayed through the dishes.
In case you need one more option to get you through the trip, Limaná is an exceptional choice. Maintaining a fairly low profile on the international scene, this corner is a chic and classic favorite among locals. The restaurant provides a cozy atmosphere with simultaneously refined and straightforward dishes that pay full homage to sustainability in sourcing, preparing, and serving our meals. Limaná is also excellent for patrons with any type of food sensitivity.
For a fresh-faced but upscale sustainable option, Xoma is an incredible alternative. Peruvian chef Ralf Zúñiga focuses on local products and experiments with ways to give these ingredients new form and function for the palate. Out of the world’s 113 microclimates, Peru is fortunate enough to enjoy 84 of them, which are artfully displayed through the dishes.
In case you need one more option to get you through the trip, Limaná is an exceptional choice. Maintaining a fairly low profile on the international scene, this corner is a chic and classic favorite among locals. The restaurant provides a cozy atmosphere with simultaneously refined and straightforward dishes that pay full homage to sustainability in sourcing, preparing, and serving our meals. Limaná is also excellent for patrons with any type of food sensitivity.
What's all the fuss about Peruvian fusions
Like many countries worldwide, over the past few hundred years, Peru has welcomed waves of migrants from all over. Along with the new residents came their cultures, traditions, styles, and of course, cuisine. In many countries, these influences were welcomed but remained separate from the local trends or had only a light impact. However, Peruvians embraced cooking techniques, recipes, and ingredients from abroad, “digested” their essence, and then fused them with traditional dishes to create new and unique delicacies over the years. Today's primary fusions are Japanese-Peruvian: Nikkei, Chinese-Peruvian: Chifa, African-Peruvian: Creole, and of course, the European influence from mainly Spain, Italy, and France. Here you can see a video diving into Peruvian cuisine and its flavorful legacy.
Here are some of our favorite spots to try these famous fusions. For Nikkei, Osaka, Hanzo, or Ache are fantastic options. For Chifa, Shi-nua or Chifa Royal will leave you wanting more. For Creole cuisine, Isolina, la Huaca Pucllana, or José Antonio all do the genre justice.
We’re just getting started on the food, but we’ll leave the rest for another post. In the meantime, you can check out more of our favorite restaurants in Lima or a reduced selection of restaurants in Lima and what to order.
Things to do in Lima · Get your cultural fix
One of the best ways to grasp Peru’s vibrant and ancient culture is through a visit to the Larco Museum. It’s one of the top museums in the country, in our opinion, THE top, and houses over 40,000 artifacts that give you a glimpse into traditions, history, and economy over approximately 4,000 years. The museum is beautifully designed, and a major plus (besides the enlightening erotic ceramics exhibit) is the stunning outdoor café which serves an excellent variety of Peruvian dishes that are expertly executed.
The historic center of Lima is also a spot you’ll want to check out if you’re looking to get a feel for what life was like while Peru was under the Spanish empire. The urban planning of this area was designed by conquistador Francisco Pizarro and the buildings reflect various architectural styles that will keep your eyes toward the sky. In the center, you’ll find no shortage of places to visit, just to name a few: Lima’s Cathedral, San Francisco Monastery, Santo Domingo Monastery, the Inquisition Museum, Plaza de Armas, and Plaza San Martín.
If you want to do it all in one day so that you get to see a bit of everything at a leisurely pace, a city tour is a great way to cover the highlights. We’ve done the research for you, check out the itinerary here: Lima city tour.
Shopping in Lima
When you’re out shopping on vacation, especially in a foreign country, it’s understandable that you would want to hone in on the products that are crafted with care, that are unique to the destination, and that will bring back unforgettable memories when you get home. If it’s not for you but a gift you’re planning to bring back, then it’s even more imperative that it be something more than a token keepsake and a present representative of where you’ve just been. There are many options in Peru, so we’ll try to point you in the right direction depending on what you’re out to get. The best souvenirs from Peru are baby alpaca, silver, organic Peruvian coffee, chocolate, pisco, and unique chili pepper mixes. For a curated offer of high-end products by highly lauded Peruvian craftsmen and women, Dédalo and Puna are excellent options. If you want to peruse among endless possibilities, perhaps try the Inca Market in Miraflores. If you are specifically looking for baby alpaca, Kuna and Sol Alpaca would work; for jewelry, try Lorena Pestana or Sissai, and for all food items, you can explore a local supermarket like Tottus or Vivanda.
Want to do it all, but where to begin?
We’ve thought of that, too! For the last seven years we’ve been positioned as the number one tour in Lima because our routes explore different neighborhoods of Lima, the cultural, historic and socio-economic context of the country you’re visiting and of course – delicious, carefully selected tasting menus so you can have your cake and eat it, too. Check out our city and food tours of Lima for the perfect intro to Peru.
¡Bon appetit y buen viaje!
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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 10 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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