Peruvian cuisine is a vibrant fusion of indigenous ingredients, Spanish influences, and global flavors. Known for its fresh seafood, bold spices, and diverse dishes, Peruvian food offers a unique dining experience. From ceviche to lomo saltado, here are the top 10 restaurants where you can savor authentic Peruvian cuisine around the world.
1. Central – Lima, Peru
Ranked as one of the best restaurants in the world, Central is helmed by Chef Virgilio Martínez. The restaurant offers an innovative take on traditional Peruvian ingredients, taking diners on a culinary journey through Peru’s diverse ecosystems. Central’s tasting menu features dishes made from ingredients sourced from the Amazon, Andes, and coastal regions.
Signature Dish: Land of Corn
Location: Av. Pedro de Osma 301, Barranco, Lima
Website: Central
2. Maido – Lima, Peru
Maido, led by Chef Mitsuharu Tsumura, is renowned for its fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, known as Nikkei. The restaurant’s innovative menu blends fresh Peruvian ingredients with Japanese techniques, offering dishes like tiradito, nigiri, and sushi, with a unique Peruvian twist.
Signature Dish: Fish Ceviche with Tiger’s Milk
Location: Calle San Martin 399, Miraflores, Lima
Website: Maido
3. Astrid y Gastón – Lima, Peru
Founded by Gastón Acurio, Astrid y Gastón is an iconic Peruvian restaurant that helped put Peruvian cuisine on the global map. The restaurant offers a modern take on classic dishes like lomo saltado and ají de gallina, using fresh, local ingredients and creative presentations.
Signature Dish: Lomo Saltado
Location: Av. Paz Soldán 290, San Isidro, Lima
Website: Astrid y Gastón
4. Coya – London, UK
Coya brings the flavors of Peru to London, offering a lively atmosphere and a menu filled with traditional dishes like ceviche, anticuchos, and grilled meats. The vibrant restaurant also features a dedicated Pisco bar, serving classic Peruvian cocktails like the Pisco Sour.
Signature Dish: Tuna Ceviche
Location: 118 Piccadilly, Mayfair, London
Website: Coya
5. La Mar – San Francisco, USA
With its stunning waterfront location, La Mar in San Francisco serves up the freshest Peruvian seafood, including ceviche, causa, and tiraditos. The restaurant, part of Gastón Acurio’s global brand, brings the vibrant flavors of Peru’s coast to the West Coast of the U.S.
Signature Dish: Mixed Seafood Ceviche
Location: Pier 1 1/2, The Embarcadero, San Francisco
Website: La Mar
6. Osso – Lima, Peru
Osso is a butcher shop and restaurant specializing in premium meats, led by Chef Renzo Garibaldi. The restaurant offers a meat-centric menu with Peruvian influences, including dishes like beef tartare and grilled meats cooked to perfection.
Signature Dish: Beef Tartare
Location: Av. Santo Toribio 173, San Isidro, Lima
Website: Osso
7. Panchita – Lima, Peru
If you’re looking for traditional Peruvian comfort food, Panchita is the place to go. The menu features hearty dishes like anticuchos, tamales, and causa, all prepared with authentic flavors and generous portions.
Signature Dish: Anticuchos
Location: Calle 2 de Mayo 298, Miraflores, Lima
Website: Panchita
8. Tanta – Chicago, USA
Tanta brings the best of Peruvian cuisine to Chicago, with a menu crafted by Gastón Acurio. The restaurant offers a range of classic dishes, from fresh ceviche to hearty stews, paired with Peruvian-inspired cocktails.
Signature Dish: Ají de Gallina
Location: 118 W Grand Ave, Chicago
Website: Tanta Chicago
9. Mil – Moray, Peru
Located high in the Andes, Mil is an extraordinary dining experience that takes guests on a journey through Peru’s diverse ecosystems. The restaurant, led by Virgilio Martínez, features dishes made from ingredients found in the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Signature Dish: Mountain Roots
Location: Sector Pucará S/N, Moray
Website: Mil Centro
10. Chicha – Cusco, Peru
Chicha by Gastón Acurio offers a delightful fusion of traditional Andean ingredients with modern Peruvian cuisine. Located in the historic city of Cusco, the restaurant serves dishes like quinoa risotto, alpaca steak, and Andean potatoes, celebrating the flavors of the region.
Signature Dish: Alpaca Steak
Location: Plaza Regocijo 261, Cusco
Website: Chicha Cusco
Conclusion
Peruvian cuisine is a vibrant celebration of flavors, from fresh seafood ceviche to rich, meaty dishes like lomo saltado. Whether you're dining at the world-renowned Central in Lima or enjoying seafood at La Mar in San Francisco, these top restaurants offer the best of authentic Peruvian cuisine. Be sure to visit these culinary gems for an unforgettable taste of Peru!
