10 Must-Try Restaurants In Lima: Discover The Culinary Capital of South America
Why is Lima the Culinary Capital of South America?
When you think of Lima, Peru, one thing almost everyone agrees on is its food. Lima has earned its title as the Culinary Capital of South America, and for good reason – it’s a melting pot of flavors where indigenous Peruvian traditions blend with Spanish, African, Chinese, and Japanese influences. The result is a vibrant food scene that ranges from fine dining to humble street corners, each offering something memorable.
We stayed in Lima for a week, long enough to slow down and let our taste buds lead the way. Our goal wasn’t to hop from one Michelin-starred restaurant to another, but instead to follow the recommendations of locals and fellow travelers to uncover authentic flavors and everyday favorites. What we found was a mix of rotisserie chicken, fresh ceviche, hearty sandwiches, and creative fusions that told the story of Lima itself.
The Fusion of Flavors in Lima
Before diving into the restaurants, it’s worth mentioning what makes Lima’s cuisine so unique: fusion. Over centuries, Lima has welcomed waves of immigrants, and each brought ingredients and cooking techniques that shaped Peruvian food as we know it today.
- Chinese (Chifa): Chinese immigrants brought rice, stir-frying and soy-based flavors, creating Chifa cuisine – one of the most beloved comfort foods in Peru.
- Japanese (Nikkei): Japanese influence gave rise to Nikkei cuisine, where fresh fish, sashimi, and sushi were adapted with Peruvian ingredients, like ceviche and makis with tropical sauces.
- Afro-Peruvian: African communities brought spices, stews, and soulful cooking styles that merged with coastal Peruvian traditions.
- Andean Roots: At the heart of it all, native Peruvian ingredients like potatoes, corn, and quinoa still shine through in every dish.
This melting pot is what makes eating in Lima such a unique adventure and has given Lima its culinary recognition.
Best Restaurants in Lima
Though there are many restaurants we only tried the ones in Miraflores as we were staying there. A week is not enough to explore all the flavors and check out all the restaurants. But based on our research, speaking to other locals and tourists, and after trying we highly recommend the following restaurants!
1. Pardos Chicken – The Best Peruvian Rotisserie
Peru takes rotisserie chicken very seriously, and Pardos Chicken is one of the most popular places to try it. Their pollo a la brasa comes perfectly roasted with a crispy skin and super juicy, tender meat. What makes it special is the seasoning – a secret blend of herbs and spices that give the chicken a smoky, savory flavor.
Since we were there, we wanted to try more. Therefore, we ordered a platter of assorted meats like beef, cocktail sausages, rotisserie chicken, anticuchos (grilled cow heart skewer), and chicken skewers along with a massive portion of fries. It was good for two hungry people!
Apart from food, we loved the service, the ambiance, and if we had more time in Lima we would have visited them again.
2. Punto Azul – Ceviche at Its Best
If you only try one dish in Lima, it has to be ceviche – fresh fish “cooked” in lime juice with onions, rocoto, and herbs. We went to Punto Azul on San Martín, which came highly recommended by both locals and travelers.
We ordered a sharable platter for two of mixed ceviche which had fish, squids, scallops, shrimps, and octopus!
The ceviche here was incredibly fresh, tangy, and perfectly balanced. It came with the classic sides of corns, sweet potato, and onions. We also got cancha (toasted corn) as a complimentary with a spicy tangy sauce.
3. Poke 51 – Japanese-Peruvian Flavors
Thanks to another blogger who mentioned this restaurant, it was a great suggestion to experience Nikkei (Japanese-Peruvian fusion). While poke bowls are on the menu, we went straight for the makis (Japanese sushi rolls with a Peruvian twist).
👉 What are Makis? Think sushi rolls, but saucier, spicier, and more indulgent than the traditional Japanese version. Our rolls were loaded with fresh fish, avocado, sauces, and crunchy toppings. They were flavorful, playful, and surprisingly affordable.
Between the two of us (who were very hungry), we ordered two different flavors of Maki (Acevichado – with a slight tangy kick to it) and Volkano. The 10 pieces are enough to get you full. But we desired more as they were too good and ordered another plate of Shiromi roll! To complete with a dessert, we ordered one Mochi to try and the passion fruit ice cream in it was too good! Had to take a long walk back home but totally worth it!
The ambiance was cozy yet modern – perfect for a relaxed dinner after a day of exploring.
4. Walok – Chifa (Chinese-Peruvian Flavors)
Suggested to us by our walking tour guide, Walok turned out more than what we expected. Lima’s Chinatown is the beating heart of Chifa cuisine, and one of the classics is Walok. Walking into this bustling restaurant feels like stepping into another world.
We tried fried rice (chaufa), wontons, and stir-fried beef with vegetables – all comfort food, but with a distinctly Peruvian twist. Soy sauce mixes with Peruvian spices, and the portions are HUGE. We had to pack as a takeaway for the next day.
👉 Chifa is the kind of food you crave on repeat. It’s simple, flavourful, and affordable. You will find high-end Chifa restaurants as well as very local and cheap Chifa restaurants too. None will disappoint.
5. The Best Churros in the Historic Centre
After all the savory meals, we needed something sweet, and churros were the answer. Our guide told us about this small churro spot in Lima’s historic center (locals swore by it), and it turned out to be unforgettable.
These churros did not look like your regular churros. They were crispy on the outside, soft inside, and filled with rich flavors like chocolate or manjar blanco (a sweet caramel-like filling). Perfect for an afternoon snack while strolling the colonial streets.
For only 3.5 soles, how can you not have a sweet indulgence with them!
6. La Lucha Sandwiches – Iconic Peruvian Sandwiches
A trip to Lima wouldn’t be complete without a sandwich stop at La Lucha, one of the city’s most iconic chains. The sandwiches are massive, stuffed with slow-cooked meats, melted cheese, and topped with their signature sauces. There are multiple sauces to choose from and all of them are great.
Our favorite? The chicharrón sandwich – crispy pork with sweet potato and onions. Absolute perfection! Get a combo if you want to add fries and a drink or Chicha.
There are many chains that you go to – find one near you and enjoy their street styled sandwiches which will leave you craving for more! And so good that you will forget to take a photo (just like we did 😞)
7. Slice Pizzeria
If you’re a pizza lover visiting Lima, Slice Pizzeria in Miraflores is a must-try. This cozy spot offers some of the crispiest, most flavorful thin-crust pizzas I’ve had in the city! We are pizza lovers so after having tried many pizzas, we can say this was one of the best ones we have had!
Bonus Recommendations We Missed
Even though we stayed in Lima for a week, there were still a few restaurants that came highly recommended by locals and fellow travelers that we didn’t have time to try. If your schedule allows, these could be excellent additions to your food journey:
8. Panchita – Traditional Peruvian Comfort Food
Part of the renowned chef Gastón Acurio’s restaurant group, Panchita is known for its hearty portions and celebration of traditional Peruvian home cooking. Locals described it as the perfect spot to try anticuchos (grilled beef heart skewers), stews, and other classic dishes that showcase the diversity of Peruvian flavors.
9. Canta Ranita – A Local Favorite in Barranco
Barranco is Lima’s bohemian neighborhood, full of street art, music, and hidden gems. Canta Ranita is one of them.
This casual spot felt more like eating at a friend’s place than a restaurant. We had ceviche here again (because one is never enough in Lima), and it was bold, tangy, and incredibly fresh. We also had their Chaufa con Mariscos (sea food fried rice) and that was super flavorful as well!
10. Sanguchón Campesino – A Local Sandwich Gem
While La Lucha often steals the spotlight when it comes to sandwiches in Lima, one of our good friends recommended us to try Sanguchón Campesino. Unfortunately, we did not get a chance but it is one of those places that would make you feel like locals. It’s not flashy, and it doesn’t have the long lines of the more famous chains, but what it does have is flavor, heart, and seriously good sandwiches.
The menu is straightforward but generous – packed with fillings like chicharrón (crispy pork), chicken, or steak, layered with sweet potato, onions, and sauces that tie it all together. The sandwiches are huge, the bread is soft yet sturdy enough to hold everything, and every bite feels like comfort food.
There is a platter of eight foods in small portions that you can try. Those were what we wanted to but never got to it.
Where to Stay in Lima
Considering the safety of the city, it is best to stick to the neighbourhoods of Miraflores and Barranco. Imagine Miraflores as a part of developed country with big fancy buildings, big stores, malls, great restaurants, and everything you need! Barranco is more bohemian style with vibrant colors.
Hotel Britania Crystal Collection:
A mid-range hotel with modern, well-kept rooms and a hearty breakfast buffet. It’s just a short walk to Kennedy Park and the Malecón, making it a convenient choice for first-time visitors who want to explore Miraflores on foot.
Casa Andina (Standard Miraflores):
Part of a well-known Peruvian hotel chain, this property blends comfort with local character. Guests appreciate its reliable service, comfortable rooms, and proximity to cafés, shops, and Miraflores nightlife.
Known for its spacious suites and rooftop pool, this hotel offers great value for families or longer stays. Located near Ovalo Miraflores, it gives easy access to Larcomar, restaurants, and the oceanfront walking paths.
Is Lima Safe?
Safety in Lima varies by neighborhood, and Miraflores is generally considered one of the safest areas for tourists. You’ll notice a visible police presence around Kennedy Park and the Malecón, which makes walking around feel reassuring. That said, like in any big city, it’s wise to stay alert, avoid flashing valuables, and stick to official ride-hailing apps. Pickpocketing can happen in crowded places, so keeping your bag close is always a good idea.
For neighbourhoods, Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro are safe and popular with visitors, thanks to their tourist-friendly infrastructure and security. In contrast, areas like Callao (near the airport) and La Victoria are best avoided due to higher crime rates and limited police presence. Parts of downtown Lima can also feel unsafe after dark, so it’s better to visit during the day and return to safer districts in the evening. With these precautions, Lima can be a welcoming and enjoyable city to explore!
Is Lima Worth Visiting?
For me, Lima was a wonderful surprise – definitely worth a visit. I stayed in Miraflores and loved every moment of it, from walking along the stunning coastal cliffs to enjoying the lively parks scattered throughout the neighborhood. The food alone makes Lima unforgettable – I spent hours trying everything from fresh ceviche to local pastries, and even simple street food felt like an experience.
There’s something special about strolling through the Malecón at sunset, watching the ocean waves while the city hums quietly behind you. While Lima might not have the dramatic mountains of Cusco or the mystery of the Sacred Valley, its combination of culture, history, and vibrant daily life made my stay feel rich and memorable. I left feeling like I’d really gotten a taste of the city – in every sense of the word.