As digital nomads continue to flock to Lima, Peru, many are discovering a culinary treasure trove in the heart of the city. Lima has quickly earned its reputation as the gastronomic capital of South America, offering a diverse and delectable range of traditional and modern cuisine. From humble street food stands to award-winning restaurants, Lima’s food scene caters to every palate and budget.
The city’s rich history and cultural diversity have given rise to a unique fusion of flavors, which can be traced back to the indigenous Inca, Spanish colonial, African, Chinese, and Japanese influences. This gastronomic melting pot has resulted in a vibrant and eclectic array of dishes that are an essential part of the Lima experience.
Ceviche, Peru’s iconic seafood dish (pictured above), is a must-try for any visitor. Prepared with fresh fish marinated in tangy citrus juice and served with onions, corn, and sweet potato, ceviche is a zesty and refreshing delight. Combined with Lima’s coastal location, this ensures that the seafood is as fresh as it gets, providing a true taste of the Pacific Ocean.
If you prefer comfort food to seafood, Lomo Saltado is a satisfying and delicious option. This traditional Peruvian stir-fry brings together marinated beef strips, onions, tomatoes, and a touch of soy sauce, all served over a bed of crispy fries and rice. The fusion of Chinese and Peruvian flavors in this dish is a testament to Lima’s culinary diversity.
Aji de Gallina is another Peruvian classic that visitors shouldn’t miss while exploring Lima’s culinary wonders. This creamy and flavorful chicken stew showcases a unique blend of indigenous and Spanish flavors, making it a true comfort food for the soul. Tender shredded chicken is cooked in a rich and velvety sauce made from aji amarillo (Peruvian yellow pepper), evaporated milk, bread soaked in chicken broth, garlic, and onions, creating a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. The dish is traditionally served with white rice, potatoes, and garnished with black olives and hard-boiled eggs, offering a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
Papas a la huancaina, a quintessential Peruvian dish, embodies the vibrant culinary culture of Lima. This delectable appetizer features boiled potatoes smothered in a velvety, spicy yellow sauce made from a harmonious blend of aji amarillo peppers, queso fresco (fresh cheese), and huacatay (Peruvian black mint). The creamy sauce’s rich flavors perfectly complement the tender potatoes, creating a symphony of textures and tastes.
Price wise, things can vary greatly in Lima.
While living here, I personally ate out every day and barely ever cooked. I spent about $400-600 per month on food by doing this, eating only restaurant food. If you cook for yourself, you could stretch your budget and spend $150-$250 by shopping for groceries locally.
For vegans, I will say much of Peruvian cuisine uses some sort of meat or fish, although some vegan options do exist in the foreigner district.
A normally priced meal will run you $5-10 USD at local eateries, but the city also has fine dining options which can be much more expensive. Don’t forget, this is a world class food city, which for a long time was the only city in the world with 2 restaurants ranked in the global top 10.
Speaking of fine dining, no visit to Lima would be complete without a sample of what it has to offer at the high end. Central, Maido, and Astrid y Gastón are just a few of the renowned establishments that have put Lima on the global culinary map. These restaurants showcase the best of Peruvian cuisine, blending traditional flavors with modern techniques and presentation.
Here are some of my recommendations:
Central
A repeat winner of Latin America’s best restaurant award, Central is a heavy hitter. Michelin starred chef Virgilio Martinez runs this Miraflores staple.
Don’t expect a cheap lunch here by Peruvian standards, but the quality is worth the price tag.
Astrid y Gaston
Housed within a historic San Isidro hacienda, Astrid y Gaston is widely regarded as one of the best restaurants in Lima, and provides diners with a gastronomic experience in unforgettable meals of around 30 plates.
Kjolle
Probably my favorite restaurant in Lima, Kjolle is the sister establishment to previous entry Central. Ran by, Pía León, who was named Latin America’s best female chef in recent years, this beautiful restaurant has a bit more of a laid back vibe, while still offering amazing food.
