What to Eat in Peru

Peruvian Cuisine: A Gastronomic Odyssey Through the Andes

Peru isn’t just Machu Picchu—it’s a UNESCO-listed food capital where ancient recipes meet avant-garde innovation. From Lima’s ceviche to Amazonian jungle fruits, every bite tells a story. Let Contours Travel craft your tailor-made culinary tour, pairing iconic sites with unforgettable dining.

When in Peru, try and eat it all, but if you are looking for some recommendations to start, we at Contours Travel will make sure you have the best insights. Furthermore, our experts can guide you to the most mouthwatering dishes and hidden culinary gems, ensuring your gastronomic journey in Peru is truly exceptional.

Must-Try Dishes & Where to Savor Them

Lima: The World’s Best Restaurant Awaits

Ceviche at La Picantería (Gastón Acurio’s favorite)
Anticuchos (grilled beef heart) at Pochita’s street stall
Pisco Sours at Ayahuasca’s colonial mansion bar
Contours Pick: Central (Ranked #1 globally)—book our Lima Luxury Food Tour for VIP reservations.

Cusco & Sacred Valley: Inca Flavors Reimagined

Choclo con queso (giant corn with cheese) at San Pedro Market
Alpaca steak at Mil (Virgilio Martínez’s 8-course Andean tasting menu)
Contours Pick: Dinner at Sol y Luna Lodge’s Wayra Restaurant—add to your Sacred Valley Luxury Trek.

Arequipa: Spice & Tradition

Rocoto relleno (stuffed peppers) at La Nueva Palomino
Adobo arequipeño (pork stew) at rustic picanterías. These are traditionally run by women who cook their family recipes.
Contours Travel’s pick: savor the rich flavors of Chupe de Camarones at Cipriana.

Amazon Dining: Where the Jungle Meets Your Plate

On your Amazon cruise or lodge stay, every meal is an expedition. While Belén Market’s grilled alligator and surí larvae tempt the bold, your all-inclusive menus will spotlight refined takes on rainforest ingredients:

Chonta Salad: Ribbons of palm heart tossed with lime and jungle herbs
Patarashca: Fresh river fish steamed in bijao leaves with local spices
Tacacho: Smoky mashed plantains with crispy pork belly
Cocona Sorbet: Tart jungle fruit dessert to cleanse your palate

How We Elevate Your Food Journey

At Contours Travel, we understand that no two food lovers are alike. With years of experience crafting gourmet journeys across Peru, we design tailor-made itineraries that suit your tastes, interests, and budget. Whether you want to sample just a few highlights or dive deep into Peru’s world-renowned cuisine, we’ll create an experience as unique as your palate.

From the vibrant markets of Lima to high-altitude fine dining in the Sacred Valley, your personalised food tour can include:

✔️ Priority reservations at sought-after restaurants like Central or Mil
✔️ Market tours with local chefs in Lima or Cusco – taste ingredients at the source
✔️ Pisco blending workshops in Lima or hands-on cooking classes in Cusco
✔️ Amazon-to-Andes culinary journeys blending flavours, landscapes, and cultures