1. Central

Cuisine: Peruvian Fusion

Central, led by chef Virgilio Martínez, is South America's top restaurant. Known for its innovative dishes that explore Peru's biodiversity, each plate represents a different altitude or ecosystem, ranging from the Amazon jungle to the Andes. Highlights include the Mater Elevations tasting menu, which features ingredients sourced from specific altitudes throughout Peru.

The dining experience at Central is both visually and gastronomically appealing, with dishes artfully presented to reflect Peru's natural landscapes and cultural heritage. Central has consistently ranked among the world's best restaurants, lauded for its creativity, sustainability, and commitment to celebrating Peru's rich culinary heritage.

Why it's in the top 20: Central is globally recognized, consistently ranking in the top 10 of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.

Best Plates: Tree Tomato, Amazonian fish with tubers.

• Address: Av. Pedro de Osma 301, Barranco
• Website: https://centralrestaurante.com.pe/default.html

2. Maido

Cuisine: Nikkei (Peruvian-Japanese Fusion)

If you're craving Nikkei cuisine, Maido is the place to go. Chef Mitsuharu Tsumura expertly combines the best of Japanese and Peruvian flavors, leaving your taste buds dancing. Consider sushi, seafood, and Amazonian ingredients prepared with the precision of Japanese cooking methods.

Maido has a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere that combines modern elegance and Peruvian heritage. The interior design blends sleek, contemporary elements with traditional Peruvian touches, resulting in a welcoming and stylish atmosphere.

Why it's in the top 20: Maido consistently ranks as one of the best restaurants in the world, making it a must-visit for sushi and fusion food lovers.

Best Plates: 50-hour cooked short rib, sushi nigiri with Peruvian touches

• Address: San Martin 399, Miraflores
• Website: https://maido.pe/en/

3. Astrid y Gastón

Cuisine: Peruvian Gourmet

Founded by Gastón Acurio, the pioneer of modern Peruvian cuisine, this fine dining establishment in the heart of San Isidro is as iconic as it gets. The tasting menus here highlight traditional Peruvian ingredients with a contemporary twist. Acurio's dedication to sustainability and local farmers elevates each dish to the level of art. Astrid y Gastón's menu celebrates Peru's rich culinary heritage, with dishes highlighting the region's diverse ingredients and flavors. 

To truly appreciate the restaurant, you must first learn about its founders, the renowned chefs Gastón Acurio and Astrid Gutsche. Acurio gave up his law studies in his third year to pursue his true passion: cooking. He met Astrid while attending Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, and the two eventually moved to Peru to open a French restaurant. Today, Acurio is a prominent ambassador for Peruvian culture, cuisine, and biodiversity, with 11 restaurants and chains in cities around the world, including Miami, Paris, and Doha, Qatar.

Why it's in the top 20: This restaurant is a symbol of Peruvian gastronomy and continues to innovate while staying true to its roots.

Best Plates: Peking guinea pig, Amazonian paiche.

• Address: Av. Paz Soldán 290, San Isidro
• Website: https://www.astridygaston.com/

4. La Mar

Cuisine: Seafood, Ceviche

La Mar, a bustling and vibrant seafood restaurant, is ideal for ceviche lovers. With fresh fish brought in daily, you'll get some of Lima's best ceviche. The atmosphere is casual but lively, making it ideal for lunch.

La Mar Cevichería, founded by Gaston Acurio, aims to popularize Peruvian cuisine through its signature ceviche. Acurio hopes to introduce Peruvian flavors to North American diners and has expanded with La Mar franchises in California and Florida. Guests at the Lima flagship restaurant can expect to enjoy top-tier cuisine that is synonymous with Acurio's prestigious reputation.

Why it's in the top 20: As a top seafood restaurant, La Mar offers the freshest catches in the city, expertly prepared in traditional and creative ways.

Best Plates: Mixed ceviche, grilled octopus.

• Address: Av. La Mar 770, Miraflores, Lima
• Website: https://lamarcebicheria.com/

5. Rafael

Cuisine: Peruvian-Italian Fusion

Chef Rafael Osterling's restaurant features Peruvian ingredients with Mediterranean and Italian influences. The dishes are unique, beautifully presented, and full of flavor. The restaurant has a modern, elegant ambiance that makes for an unforgettable dining experience.

Rafael Osterling, a celebrated chef, combines traditional Peruvian ingredients with international culinary techniques to create an unforgettable dining experience. The menu is diverse and ever-changing. Signature dishes frequently feature fresh seafood, expertly prepared meats, and creative vegetarian options, all presented with artistic flair.

Diners can unwind in an elegant, stylish, and comfortable, yet upscale setting. The restaurant's interior design incorporates modern and classic elements, resulting in a chic and inviting atmosphere. The attentive and knowledgeable service improves the overall dining experience.

Why it's in the top 20: Rafael's mastery of Peruvian-Italian fusion cuisine has earned it a loyal following.

Best Plates: Lobster ravioli, tiradito with Andean herbs.

• Address: Calle San Martín 300, Miraflores, Lima, Péru
• Website: https://rafaelrestaurante.pe/

6. Isolina

Cuisine: Traditional Peruvian

Isolina, located in the Bohemian Barranco district, serves hearty, traditional Peruvian comfort foods. This restaurant offers generous portions of traditional dishes such as ají de gallina and lomo saltado. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, ideal for families and large groups.

José del Castillo, Isolina's chef, was inspired by his mother, Isolina Vargas, who owned La Red, a renowned Lima culinary institution from 1981 to 2009. In honor of her legacy, Castillo opened Isolina, where he revives and celebrates Lima's beloved traditional recipes.  Isolina's ambiance is relaxed yet vibrant, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors looking to sample authentic Peruvian flavors in a welcoming setting.

Why is it in the top 20? Isolina is well-known for serving authentic, traditional Peruvian cuisine.

Best Plates: Beef heart skewers, pork ribs stewed with Andean herbs.

• Address: Av. San Martín 101, Barranco
• Website: https://isolina.pe/en/home/

7. Cosme

Cuisine: Contemporary Peruvian, International Fusion

Cosme offers a modern take on Peruvian cuisine with international influences, resulting in a menu that is both innovative and traditional. Cosme, located in the vibrant San Isidro district, is known for its creative dishes that combine Peruvian flavors with international techniques. The restaurant's casual-chic atmosphere makes it ideal for both casual dining and special events. The interior is sleek and modern, with an open kitchen where visitors can watch the chefs at work.

Why it's in the top 20: Cosme’s fresh approach to fusion cuisine, combined with top-notch service and a trendy atmosphere, has made it a favorite among Lima’s young food enthusiasts. Its ability to elevate traditional Peruvian dishes with a global twist sets it apart from more classic eateries in the city.

Best Plates: Cosme Burger, Octopus Anticucho, Causas Tasting.

• Address: Av. Tudela y Varela 162, San Isidro 15073
• Website: https://cosme.com.pe/

8. Amoramar

Cuisine: Contemporary Peruvian Fusion

Amoramar, located in Barranco's artsy district, combines Peruvian and international flavors. The restaurant is known for its vibrant outdoor terrace and sophisticated yet casual atmosphere. Seafood is a standout here, and the dishes are inventive without losing sight of tradition.

Amoramar is known for its modern take on traditional Peruvian ingredients, particularly seafood. Each dish is carefully crafted, combining local ingredients with modern culinary techniques while retaining the essence of Peruvian cuisine. The restaurant's atmosphere is casual yet elegant, making it a popular choice for both Lima foodies and international visitors looking for an authentic yet avant-garde dining experience.

Why it's in the top 20: Amoramar’s chic setting and inventive dishes make it a popular choice for foodies and locals alike.

Best Plates: Octopus carpaccio, ají de gallina with truffle. (puedes alargar un poco este hablando de la experiencia y el menu

• Address: Av. Pardo y Aliaga 672, San Isidro 15073
• Website: https://www.amoramar.com/

9. Osso

Cuisine: Steakhouse

Carnivores, this one's for you. Osso is a top steakhouse in Lima, known for its high-quality cuts of meat and expertly grilled dishes. The restaurant prides itself on sustainability, using only the finest local meats.

Osso's menu offers a variety of expertly prepared dishes, including succulent burgers, artisanal sausages, premium cuts of beef, and much more. From dry-aged steaks to inventive charcuterie, every cut of meat is carefully chosen and aged to perfection, resulting in exceptional flavor and tenderness.

Why it's in the top 20: Osso is a meat-lover’s paradise with an emphasis on high-quality, sustainable ingredients.

Best Plates: Tomahawk steak, house-made sausages.

• Address: Av. Santo Toribio 173, Torre Real 6
• Website: https://osso.pe/

10. Siete

Cuisine: Mediterranean-Asian Fusion

Siete, located in Barranco, serves a distinct blend of Mediterranean and Asian flavors, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The ambiance is hip and youthful, making it a popular choice for foodies seeking a unique menu.

Chef Martins creates inventive modern Mediterranean-inspired dishes with an Asian twist, set to a carefully curated soundtrack of various musical genres. Highlights include the catch-of-the-day tiradito with ginger, razor clams, and vermouth, as well as sweetbreads served with apple puree. The menu features a variety of fresh pasta options, including pumpkin ravioli and duck ragu pappardelle, as well as the renowned oozing cheesecake, a must-try dessert.

Why it's in the top 20: The inventive dishes and cool atmosphere make Siete a must-visit.

Best Plates: Pumpkin ravioli, catch-of-the-day tiradito.

• Address: Jr. Domeyer 260, Barranco
• Phone: (+51 1) 966 320 855

11. Statera

Cuisine: Contemporary Peruvian

At Statera, Chef André Patsias modernizes Peruvian cuisine by combining traditional ingredients with cutting-edge techniques. The tasting menu takes diners on a journey through Peru's diverse landscapes, featuring ingredients from the coast, highlands, and Amazon.

Why it's in the top 20: Statera stands out for its creative take on Peruvian ingredients, providing a unique fine dining experience.

• Address: Av. Mariscal La Mar 463, Miraflores 15074
• Phone: (+51 1) 973 030 458

12. Kjolle

Cuisine: Contemporary Peruvian

Pia León, wife of Central's Virgilio Martínez, runs Kjolle, which offers a unique take on Peruvian cuisine. While Central focuses on biodiversity at different altitudes, Kjolle emphasizes the variety of native Peruvian ingredients. The colorful dishes are as visually appealing as they are tasty.

Kjolle's tasting menu typically includes dishes that highlight native Peruvian ingredients, with a focus on seasonality and sustainability. Each course is expertly paired with local beverages, such as artisanal cocktails or natural wines, to elevate the overall experience. The menu is constantly evolving to reflect the freshest and most exciting ingredients available. The à la carte menu includes dishes such as sea bass and clams, which combine the delicate, flaky texture of seabass with the briny, succulent taste of fresh clams, and cow rib, which highlights the rich, tender flavors of slow-cooked cow rib, enhanced by Kjolle's distinct approach to flavor and presentation.

Why it's in the top 20: Kjolle provides a fresh and vibrant take on Peru’s culinary heritage, earning it global recognition.

Best Plates: River shrimp with macambo, Andean tubers with forest mushrooms.

• Address: Av. Pedro de Osma 301, Barranco
• Website: Address: https://www.kjolle.com/en/default.html

13. Malabar

Cuisine: Amazonian Peruvian Fusion

Malabar, by chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, brings the flavors of the Amazon to Lima. With a menu centered on exotic ingredients from the jungle, including fruits, fish, and herbs, this restaurant offers a dining experience unlike any other in Lima.

Why it's in the top 20: Malabar’s commitment to Amazonian ingredients and sustainable sourcing makes it one of the most unique restaurants in the city.

Best Plates: Pirarucu fish with Amazonian herbs, ceviche with camu camu.

• Address: Av. Camino Real 101, San Isidro 15073
• Website: Address: malabar.com.pe

14. Maras

Cuisine: Contemporary Peruvian

Maras, located inside the luxurious Westin Hotel, is well-known for its modern take on traditional Peruvian cuisine. Chef Rafael Piqueras emphasizes local ingredients, presenting them in a sophisticated manner that complements the restaurant's upscale atmosphere.

The restaurant's chic interior, which includes plush seating, contemporary décor, and soft lighting, creates an atmosphere of understated luxury that encourages diners to unwind and savor the experience. The ambiance is ideal for special occasions, business dinners, or a memorable night out, providing an exclusive yet welcoming atmosphere. At Maras, attention to detail is essential, from the carefully curated wine list to the beautifully plated dishes that arrive at your table.

Why it's in the top 20: Maras offers an elegant dining experience with a focus on innovation and local flavors.

Best Plates: Sea bass with Amazonian spices, suckling pig with Andean potatoes.

• Address: C. Amador Merino Reyna 589, San Isidro 15046
• Phone: 962 382 609

15. Costanera 700

Cuisine: Peruvian-Japanese Fusion

Costanera 700 is one of Lima's top Nikkei restaurants, serving a delectable fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors. The seafood here is extremely fresh, and the sushi is among the best in the city. The atmosphere is elegant yet relaxed, making it ideal for both lunch and dinner.

The restaurant sources the freshest fish and shellfish directly from Peru's Pacific coast, ensuring that each dish is packed with flavor. While the menu offers a diverse range of options, from traditional tiraditos to inventive sushi rolls, each dish is meticulously crafted to reflect the harmonious union of two culinary worlds. Costanera 700's emphasis on freshness, quality, and technique has earned it a spot among Lima's best dining establishments, especially for those who appreciate the fine art of Nikkei cuisine.

Why it's in the top 20: This restaurant is a pioneer in Nikkei cuisine and continues to deliver outstanding fusion dishes.

Best Plates: Nikkei-style ceviche, grilled squid with ginger sauce.

• Address: Jr. Manuel Tovar 179, Miraflores 15074
• Website: costanera700.pe

16. Mayta

Cuisine: Contemporary Peruvian

Chef Jaime Pesaque's Mayta is a stylish, modern restaurant that combines Peruvian ingredients with international techniques. Mayta's dishes are refined but full of bold flavors, distinguishing it from the rest of Lima's fine dining scene.

From ceviches and tiraditos made with fresh seafood to inventive takes on traditional Andean ingredients, each dish at Mayta is meticulously prepared to deliver bold flavors and visual appeal. Don't miss out on the Cuy—confited guinea pig served with grilled mamey, accompanied by a rich demi-glace and a roasted vegetable purée—or the risotto de chupe, which incorporates the flavors of a popular Arequipa dish—spicy shrimp stew—into risotto. Aside from delectable dishes, Mayta has one of Lima's best pisco bars.

Why it's in the top 20: Mayta’s inventive approach to Peruvian cuisine has earned it a spot on Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants list.

Best Plates: Squid ink rice, lamb with Andean spices.

• Address: Av. La Mar 1285, Miraflores
• Website: https://www.maytalima.com/

17. Panchita

Cuisine: Traditional Peruvian, Creole

Panchita, created by Chef Gastón Acurio, celebrates traditional Peruvian and Creole dishes in a casual, welcoming setting. This restaurant is ideal for those looking to try comforting dishes such as anticuchos (beef heart skewers), tacu tacu (fried rice and beans), and chicharrón (fried pork).

Panchita honors Peru's Creole heritage, which is a diverse blend of indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian influences. The menu reflects this diversity, with traditional Peruvian dishes enjoyed for generations. Whether you're a local looking for comforting tastes from home or a traveler eager to discover Peru's traditional cuisine, Panchita delivers with bold, authentic flavor.

Why it's in the top 20: Panchita offers a hearty and authentic taste of Lima’s Creole cuisine, ideal for travelers seeking local flavors.

Best Plates: Anticuchos, lomo saltado.

• Address: C. 2 de Mayo 298, Miraflores 15074
• Website: https://www.panchita.pe/

18. Mérito

Cuisine: Venezuelan-Peruvian Fusion

Mérito serves an exciting fusion of Venezuelan and Peruvian flavors, with dishes that are both creative and comforting. The chefs use locally sourced, seasonal ingredients to create a menu that surprises and delights. The atmosphere is casual but chic, ideal for a relaxed yet sophisticated dining experience.

The menu features a unique blend of traditional Venezuelan and Peruvian ingredients, expertly combined to create fresh and exciting dishes. Guests can choose from a variety of options, including delicious arepas and empanadas, inventive seafood dishes, savory meat entrées, creative vegetarian options, and delectable desserts that highlight the sweet flavors of both regions. Each plate is meticulously crafted, resulting in a memorable culinary experience.

Why it's in the top 20: Mérito stands out for its creative fusion of two rich culinary traditions.

Best Plates: Arepas with seafood, duck confit with cacao sauce.

• Address: Jr, 28 De Julio 206, Barranco 15063
• Website: https://www.merito.com.pe/

19. Nanka

Nanka is a standout in Lima's restaurant scene, serving not only exceptional contemporary Peruvian fusion cuisine but also demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Nanka, located in the bustling district of La Molina, has built a reputation for its innovative use of organic, locally sourced ingredients, as well as its commitment to reducing the environmental impact of its operations. The restaurant is designed in a rustic yet modern style, reflecting its commitment to sustainability, and has a cozy, inviting ambiance that appeals to both locals and international visitors.

Nanka's menu reflects Peru's biodiversity and culinary heritage, featuring dishes that highlight Amazonian and Andean ingredients while incorporating global influences. The chefs at Nanka strive to create dishes that are not only delicious but also ethical and environmentally responsible. Nanka embodies the principles of sustainable gastronomy, from ingredient sourcing to waste management practices, making it an ideal choice for conscious diners seeking a guilt-free gourmet experience.

Why it's in the top 20: Nanka is renowned not only for its innovative approach to Peruvian fusion cuisine, but also for its strong emphasis on sustainability, making it a pioneer in eco-friendly dining in Lima. Its commitment to serving gourmet dishes made with organic, fair-trade, and locally sourced ingredients distinguishes it in a city known for its world-class dining scene.

Best Plates: Amazonian Tiradito, Nanka's Quinoa Risotto, Octopus with Andean Potatoes, Sacha Inchi Crusted Amazonian Fish

• Address: C. Manuel Bañón 260, San Isidro 15073
• Website: https://www.nanka.pe/

20. El Mercado

El Mercado, created by renowned chef Rafael Osterling, is a lively seafood restaurant that combines Peruvian classics with international influences. Freshness is key here, with daily specials based on the day's best catch.

El Mercado, as the name implies, draws inspiration from the vibrant and diverse markets of Peru, where the freshest ingredients are procured on a daily basis. With a focus on seasonal and sustainable seafood, the restaurant is dedicated to serving only the best. Every time you visit El Mercado, you can expect a unique yet equally thrilling culinary experience because their daily specials are frequently designed around the freshest catch of the day.

Why it's in the top 20: A top contender for seafood lovers, this restaurant delivers exquisite dishes with a modern twist.

Best Plates: Tiradito de ají amarillo, seafood risotto.

• Address: Av. Hipólito Unanue 203, Miraflores 15074
• Website: https://elmercado.pe/

Lima is a culinary paradise just waiting to be discovered, whether you're a foodie looking for Michelin-starred restaurants or you're just looking for the best ceviche on the planet. Lima's restaurants offer a culinary adventure for every palate, from inventive fusions that push the limits of global cuisine to traditional dishes that honor Peru's rich history.

Make reservations at these popular locations in advance of your culinary adventure, especially during periods of high travel demand. Furthermore, why not incorporate your trip to Lima into an amazing experience if you're planning one? At Peruvian Sunrise, we provide specialized tours that will show you the hidden treasures of Lima's thriving culinary scene in addition to taking you to some of Peru's most well-known landmarks.

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