Many travelers search for Food in Lima Peru expecting to find only Michelin-starred fine dining. While we have that, the real magic lies in the everyday seasoning: the corner huarique (hole-in-the-wall), the neighborhood pollería, and the classic cevichería.

In this guide, curated by local experts, we take you on a journey through the flavors that define the soul of Lima. Get ready, because your mouth is about to water.

1. Lima’s Cevicherías

You cannot step foot in Lima without trying Ceviche. It is our flagship dish. In Lima, the fish is fresh (caught that same morning), and the technique is impeccable. But locals don't just live on ceviche; you must also try Leche de Tigre (Tiger's Milk), Jalea Mixta (fried seafood platter), or a Tiradito.

What to order?

• Ceviche Clásico: Fresh fish, lime, onions, ají limo (chili), sweet potato, and corn.

• Arroz con Mariscos: The Peruvian version of paella, but creamier and packed with flavor.

• Chilcano de Pescado: A concentrated fish broth that is famous for "bringing the dead back to life" (a perfect hangover cure).

Where to eat Ceviche in Lima?

• La Mar (Miraflores): For a high-quality experience in a vibrant, world-renowned atmosphere.

• El Verídico de Fidel (Barranco/Miraflores): Famous for its powerful Leche de Tigre.

• Punto Azul: A modern classic with an excellent price-quality ratio.

• Canta Rana (Barranco): Traditional, rustic atmosphere with generous portions and old-school vibes.

2. Comida Criolla (Creole Food): Lima’s DNA

Comida Criolla is the fusion of Spanish, African, and Indigenous heritage. This is "home cooking"—food with deep, spicy, and comforting flavors.

Must-Try Dishes in Lima

• Lomo Saltado: Beef tenderloin strips stir-fried in a wok with onions, tomatoes, soy sauce, and vinegar. Served with french fries and rice. An absolute favorite!

• Ají de Gallina: Shredded chicken breast in a creamy yellow sauce made from ají amarillo (yellow chili), milk, bread, and walnuts.

• Causa Limeña: A cold layered potato cake (mashed yellow potato with lime and chili), usually filled with chicken, tuna, or avocado.

• Anticuchos: Beef heart marinated in ají panca and vinegar, grilled on skewers. Don't be afraid of the cut; it is a tender, smoky, nocturnal delicacy.

Where to eat Creole Food?

• Isolina (Barranco): Old-school recipes served in massive sharing platters.

• El Bolivariano (Pueblo Libre): A historic spot ideal for trying a bit of everything.

• Panchita (Miraflores): From the Gaston Acurio group, perfect for high-quality stews and anticuchos.

• Tio Mario (Barranco): Specifically for the best Anticuchos with a view of the Bridge of Sighs.

3. Pollo a la Brasa: The National Obsession

If you ask a local what they would eat for their last meal, they will say Pollo a la Brasa. It is the most consumed dish in Peru, even surpassing ceviche. It consists of chicken marinated in Peruvian spices and roasted over charcoal (rotisserie style), served with crunchy french fries and salad.

Peruvian Sunrise Expert Tip: The secret is in the sauces. You have to try it with plenty of mayonnaise and, above all, with Ají Pollero (a special yellow chili sauce).

The Best Pollerías

• Pardos Chicken: The most reliable chain. Standard high quality and great service.

• Granja Azul (Santa Clara): The birthplace of Pollo a la Brasa. A historic location just outside the city center.

• Primos Chicken Bar: Known for having perhaps the best french fries in the city.

• Don Tito: A local favorite known for the distinct smoky flavor of its chicken.

4. Chifa (Peruvian-Chinese Food)

Lima has a massive Chinese influence. From this mix, "Chifa" was born. It is not traditional Chinese food; it is Chinese food Peruvianized. The use of the wok is fundamental here.

What to order?

• Arroz Chaufa: Fried rice with eggs, scallions, soy sauce, and various meats.

• Tallarín Saltado: Noodles stir-fried with vegetables and meat.

• Wantan Frito: Fried "wantanes" (wontons) served with a sweet tamarind sauce.

• Kam Lu Wantan: Mix of stir-fried meats, vegetables, pineapple, a little sweet and pink egg, all covered in a distinctive, sweet and sour tamarind sauce. The dish is served over a base of crispy, fried wontons.

Where to eat Chifa?

• Madam Tusan: Modern Chifa with spectacular design and creative dishes.

• Chifa Titi: For purists, considered one of the absolute best in Lima.

• Barrio Chino (Calle Capón): For an authentic street experience in Downtown Lima (Try Wa Lok or San Joy Lao).

5. Breakfasts and Sandwiches

The weekend breakfast in Lima is sacred. Forget cereal; here we eat hearty meals.

• Pan con Chicharrón: Fried pork belly, fried sweet potato, and salsa criolla (onion and lime relish) in a crunchy French bread roll.

• Tamales: Corn dough filled with chicken or pork, wrapped in banana leaves.

Where to eat a delicious breakfast in Lima?

• El Chinito: A legendary sanguchería with over 60 years of history. A must-visit.

• La Lucha Sanguchería: Order a Pan con Chicharrón or a wood-fired turkey sandwich (Pan con Pavo).

• Palermo: Famous for over 50 years for traditional Peruvian sandwiches like chicharrón and jamón del país, tamales, and fresh juices.

6. Traditional Drinks and Juices

To accompany this incredible food, Lima offers unique drinks you won't find anywhere else.

Cold Drinks

• Inca Kola: The "Golden Soda." It tastes like bubblegum and pairs perfectly with Chifa and Creole food.

• Chicha Morada: Made from boiled purple corn with pineapple, cinnamon, cloves, and lime. Refreshing and full of antioxidants.

• Fresh Juices: In markets or juice bars, order a "Surtido" (mixed fruits) or an "Especial" (with milk, carob syrup/algarrobina, and egg).

Hot Drinks and Cocktails

• Emoliente: A medicinal street drink made with herbs, barley, and flaxseed.

• Pisco Sour: The national cocktail. Pisco, lime juice, syrup, egg white, and Angostura bitters.

• Chilcano de Pisco: Pisco, Ginger Ale, and lime. More refreshing and lighter than the Sour.

Where to drink?

• Museo del Pisco: Perfect for tasting different varieties of Pisco.

• Gran Hotel Bolívar: Famous for its "Pisco Sour Catedral" (giant size).

• La Gran Fruta: For the best natural juices made from exotic fruits like Lucuma or Camu Camu.

FAQs about Eating in Lima

Ready to Taste Lima?

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Contact us today and let's design your personalized gastronomic route.