Gastronomy in Lima
Lima is now recognized worldwide as the capital of South American gastronomy. It must be acknowledged that the food is simply exceptional, and it is impossible that you
Lima is now recognized worldwide as the capital of South American gastronomy. It must be acknowledged that the food is simply exceptional, and it is impossible that you would eat the same thing twice during your trip to Pérou, even if you dined out every single day for an entire year! Indeed, Pérou holds the world record for the number of local dishes—Peruvian gastronomy boasts no fewer than 491 different dishes.
If you are passionate about Peruvian cuisine and your travel dates coincide, be sure to visit the Mistura festival, which lasts just over a week. It is a fair where dishes from across the country are prepared by the finest chefs from Lima and all of Pérou. This event takes place in Lima and is already recognized as the largest culinary festival in all of Latin America! In 2013, Mistura will run from September 6 to 15. Learn more about Mistura…
Peruvian Cuisine: Some Great Classics of Gastronomy in Lima
Gastronomy in Lima: Peruvian Beverages
The Pisco Sour: This is the national beverage of Pérou par excellence! A strong spirit that drinks like fruit juice, it is so delicious.
Chicha Morada: This is a juice made from purple corn—yes, you read that right, corn! Chicha has the taste of very sweet fruit juice, truly pleasant.
Gastronomy in Lima: Peruvian Appetizers
The ceviche: This dish made from raw fish is a source of pride for Peruvians, and you simply must taste a ceviche during your stay in Pérou.
Anticucho: These are pieces of grilled heart. Don't let the fact that it's heart stop you, as the meat is incredibly delicious!
The causa à la limeña: This is undoubtedly the most well-known appetizer in Pérou. Made with mashed potatoes, filled with tuna, shellfish, or chicken depending on your preference. It is a refreshing and delicious appetizer.
Gastronomy in Lima: Peruvian Main Courses
Cau cau: This is a delicious dish made from tripe, potatoes, and onions that reflects the traditional spirit of Peruvian cuisine.
Carapulcra a la limeña: A great classic of Peruvian gastronomy, rooted in Andean cuisine. This dish is made with dried potatoes, pork or chicken, all cooked in a succulent sauce with peanut pieces and yellow chili.
Gastronomy in Lima: Peruvian Desserts
Alfajores: A dessert made of two cookies filled with Manjar (milk caramel) and topped with powdered sugar.
Suspiro a la limeña: The quintessential dessert from Lima! It is a milk cream topped with a particularly sweet meringue.
Picarones: This dessert, typically eaten in the street, is a pumpkin fritter dipped in honey!
Arroz Zambito: This is a dessert made with arroz con leche (rice pudding) but with a cake that is distinctly Peruvian, made with corn.
Which Restaurants Should You Choose to Discover Peruvian Gastronomy?
Peruvian gastronomy is highly reputed and considered the finest on the entire American continent. Lima, as the capital, holds particular interest for food lovers and will allow you to discover flavorful and original recipes. A phenomenon of gastronomic routes is even beginning to emerge in the capital.
The vast number of restaurants in the Peruvian capital will offer you an unparalleled selection during your trip to Pérou. You will find recipes and cuisines from throughout Pérou. Lima is the ideal place to discover the best of Peruvian cuisine. Discover the best restaurants in Lima…
Frequently asked questions
Ceviche is undoubtedly the emblematic dish of Lima. Prepared with raw fish marinated in lime juice, garnished with red onion and chili, it is considered a symbol of Peruvian gastronomy. Don't leave Lima without having tasted it!
Pisco Sour is the national beverage of Pérou. This cocktail made with pisco (grape brandy), lime, egg white, and sugar syrup is essential. You will find it in every bar and restaurant in Lima.
Peruvian gastronomy is one of the richest in the world with no fewer than 491 recorded local dishes, making it a world record. This is one of the reasons why Lima is considered the gastronomic capital of Latin America.
Mistura is the largest culinary festival in Latin America, held in Lima. It brings together the finest chefs from Pérou and features dishes representative of all regions of the country. It is an event not to be missed if you visit Lima at the right time.
Lima offers a wide variety of traditional desserts such as Picarones (pumpkin fritters with honey) often found in street food, Suspiro a la limeña in traditional restaurants, or Alfajores in any local bakery. The neighborhoods of Miraflores and Barranco are full of sweet treats.


