Top 5 Places to Eat in Lima

Written by Sandra Frank, Jose Quispe
04/08/2025
Bustling day at Plaza Mayor showcasing vibrant colonial architecture and palm trees in Lima, Peru.
Cristian Salinas Cisternas, Pexels

Lima's dining scene is a vibrant blend of traditional Peruvian flavors and innovative modern cuisine, earning it a reputation as a global culinary hotspot.

1. Central

Cuisine: Contemporary Peruvian

Dining at Central is an immersive journey through Peru's diverse ecosystems, presented through meticulously crafted tasting menus. Each dish highlights unique ingredients sourced from various altitudes, from the Pacific coast to the high Andes and Amazon. The experience feels like an artistic exploration of Peru’s natural bounty, with beautiful presentations and attentive staff explaining each element. It is housed in a spacious building in Barranco, offering an elegant yet minimalist atmosphere.

Price: PEN 1045 - 1630 per person (approx. $267 - $418 USD) for tasting menus, excluding drinks.

Getting There: Located at Av. Pedro de Osma 301, Barranco. A taxi ride is recommended from central Miraflores, typically costing between PEN 15-25 (approx. $4-7 USD).

2. Maido

Cuisine: Nikkei (Peruvian-Japanese fusion)

Maido offers a unique culinary adventure where Japanese precision meets vibrant Peruvian ingredients. The Nikkei Experience tasting menu is a highlight, but an à la carte option provides flexibility. Expect innovative dishes that showcase the best of both cultures, with fresh seafood playing a leading role. The atmosphere is upscale and modern, and the service is exceptional.

Price: Nikkei Experience tasting menu from PEN 559 (approx. $140 USD); à la carte dishes from PEN 35-89 (approx. $9-23 USD); vegetarian tasting menu around PEN 350 (approx. $87 USD).

Getting There: Situated at Calle San Martin 399, Miraflores. It is often a short taxi ride from most points within Miraflores, or potentially walkable depending on your starting location.

3. Kjolle

Cuisine: Contemporary Peruvian

Kjolle, led by chef Pía León, shares a vision similar to Central in celebrating Peru's ingredients but offers a more relaxed and informal dining experience. The tasting menu, like Central's, traverses Peru's biodiversity, yet the dishes are often presented with a rustic, comforting feel. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality Peruvian culinary journey in a comfortable setting.

Price: Tasting menu from PEN 988 (approx. $260 USD); à la carte options are also available.

Getting There: Located in the same building as Central at Av. Pedro de Osma 301, Barranco. A taxi ride is the most convenient way to reach it from Miraflores.

4. Isolina Taberna Peruana

Cuisine: Traditional Peruvian / Criolla

Isolina feels like stepping into a classic Peruvian tavern, serving hearty, home-style 'criolla' dishes with generous portions designed for sharing. The ambiance is casual and vibrant, reflecting a true local dining experience. Must-try items include the 'sangrecita con camote frito' and generous 'lomo saltado' portions. It's a fantastic spot to experience authentic, traditional Peruvian comfort food.

Price: Entrees range from PEN 39-96 (approx. $10-25 USD); sandwiches around PEN 24 (approx. $6 USD).

Getting There: Found at Av. San Martin 101, Barranco. It is easily walkable from Barranco's main square and a short taxi ride from Miraflores.

5. Mercado Nº1 de Surquillo

Cuisine: Authentic Peruvian street food and fresh produce

This bustling local market offers a vibrant glimpse into daily Peruvian life and provides an exceptional opportunity for authentic, affordable street eats. Explore stalls brimming with fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood. Many vendors prepare dishes on the spot, offering fresh ceviche, anticuchos, and other local favorites. It's an immersive experience for those looking to taste Peru's culinary roots at a very low cost.

Price: Very affordable, with meals often costing under PEN 40 (approx. $11 USD).

Getting There: Located at Avenida Paseo de la República & Narciso de la Colina, Surquillo. It is a convenient 10-minute walk from Parque Kennedy in Miraflores.

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