Top 6 Places to Eat in Cusco

Written by Sandra Frank, Jose Quispe
04/08/2025
Aerial view of historic Plaza de Armas in Cusco, Peru with scenic mountains.
Dulce Panebra, Pexels

Cusco's dining scene is a vibrant blend of traditional Andean flavors and innovative culinary concepts, offering a range of experiences from fine dining to budget-friendly options.

1. Morena Peruvian Kitchen

Cuisine: Modern Peruvian

Morena Peruvian Kitchen offers a modern and bright ambiance with a focus on traditional Peruvian flavors presented with a contemporary twist. Situated near the Plaza de Armas, it provides a vibrant atmosphere and is well-regarded for dishes such as alpaca risotto and lomo saltado. Reservations are recommended, especially for those seeking a table with views of the plaza.

Price: S/. 50-100 (approx. $15-30 USD) per person

Getting There: Located on a corner of Plaza de Armas, it is easily accessible by walking from the main square.

2. Chicha by Gastón Acurio

Cuisine: Andean Peruvian

Helmed by the renowned Peruvian chef Gastón Acurio, Chicha is a celebrated restaurant focusing on native and regional Andean ingredients. The interior offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with vibrant decor and an open kitchen concept. Signature dishes include trout tiradito and quinoto with alpaca. Given its popularity and acclaim, booking a reservation well in advance is highly advisable.

Price: S/. 100-200 (approx. $30-60 USD) per person

Getting There: Found on Plaza Regocijo, Chicha is a short walk from Cusco's main Plaza de Armas.

3. Cicciolina

Cuisine: Italian-Peruvian Fusion & Tapas

Cicciolina provides an elegant dining experience on the second floor of a colonial building in the San Blas neighborhood. It features a formal dining room and a more casual tapas bar with open kitchens. The menu expertly blends Italian-style dishes with Peruvian and Mediterranean influences, offering options such as quinoa-encrusted prawns and causa with guinea pig confit. Reservations are a must for the dining room.

Price: S/. 80-180 (approx. $25-55 USD) per person

Getting There: Located in the San Blas neighborhood, it is within walking distance, approximately two blocks from the Plaza de Armas.

4. Pachapapa

Cuisine: Authentic Andean & Traditional Peruvian

Pachapapa offers an authentic Cusquenian dining experience within a charming old mansion and its inviting outdoor courtyard in the San Blas area. Dishes are often prepared in a traditional wood-fired oven and rustic clay pots, featuring local favorites like alpaca steak, cuy (guinea pig), and ají de gallina. The restaurant occasionally hosts live music, enhancing its warm ambiance. Reservations are recommended.

Price: S/. 30-70 (approx. $9-20 USD) per person

Getting There: Situated near Plaza San Blas, it is easily reachable on foot from the central area.

5. Green Point

Cuisine: Vegan Fusion & Plant-Based Peruvian

Green Point is a sanctuary for plant-based cuisine, located in the bohemian San Blas district. The restaurant prides itself on using organic, locally-sourced ingredients, some even from their own garden. The spacious and plant-filled interior creates a serene atmosphere, sometimes complemented by live music. It serves creative vegan interpretations of Peruvian dishes, such as sweet potato ravioli and vegan lomo saltado, appealing to both vegans and those seeking healthier options.

Price: S/. 20-35 (approx. $6-10 USD) per person

Getting There: Found in the San Blas district, it is about a five-minute walk from Cusco's historic city center.

6. Chakruna Native Burgers

Cuisine: Burgers

Chakruna Native Burgers offers a casual and budget-friendly dining option specializing in creative burgers. They provide a variety of veggie burger choices in addition to traditional alpaca burgers. Each meal comes with a side of salad and fries, with numerous customizable toppings available. It is a highly favored spot for affordable and satisfying meals.

Price: S/. 15-30 (approx. $4-8 USD) per person

Getting There: Located at Plazoleta de San Blas 699, it is within walking distance in the San Blas neighborhood.

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