Restaurants in Lima. Lima is the culinary capital of South America. Restaurants in Lima certainly have a high standard and you best believe that there are enough different cuisines to satisfy even the pickiest of palettes.
This article will explore the different cuisines and the best restaurants in Lima so that you can enjoy the most exquisite dishes without having to guess.
If you plan on traveling around Peru check out where to eat in Peru outside of Lima.
For Lima restaurants, read on:
- Best meat restaurants in Lima
- Best Chinese / Chifa restaurants in Lima
- Best Italian restaurants in Lima
- Best Japanese/ Peruvian- Japanese ( Nikkei) restaurants in Lima
- Best Criolla restaurants in Lima
- Best contemporary Peruvian cuisine restaurants in Lima
- Best fish and seafood restaurants in Lima
- Best bar/ lounge style restaurants in Lima
Best meat restaurants in Lima
Who doesn’t love a good steak? While you are in South America it is certainly a must-try. However, there are victories and successes when it comes to Peruvian steakhouses. Check out this list to be sure that you’re visiting a success story.
Carnal
Carnal has a great reputation, and for good reason. Perfectly cooked steaks are a calling card of Carnal, so if you want to get your teeth in some meat this is the spot for you.
Check Out: Our cook in the home of a Lima Chef experience for a truly authentic experience, and to take home a little knowledge of Peruvian cuisine!
El Charrúa
A little out of the center, El Charrua is worth the visit. The slightly less typical Uruguayan steak really shines a light here. There is also no cork fee if you choose to bring your favorite bottle of wine.
Osso Carnicería & Salumeria
If you want to break out of a steak routine but still want some great meat then Osso Carniceria is a great plan. With burgers, tacos, and plenty of other meat-based experiences (and of course, steaks).
If you’re a foodie, why not check out our Farm to Table: Culinary Experience of Peru adventure, or our cooking class in the home of a Peruvian Chef?
El Hornero
Perfect for all kinds of occasions, from closing a business deal to a special occasion and first date. Conveniently located on the outskirts of the trendy Barranco district, this is a great spot to tuck in after a full day of sightseeing.
La Carreta
A beautifully decorated hideaway with history dripping from the walls, La Carreta is an experience waiting to be had. An extensive paired wine list, as well as a beautifully curated menu, awaits you here.
La Cuadra de Salvador Steakhouse
There are two locations of La Cuadra de Salvador Steakhouse, one in the bohemian Barranco district, the other in the business capital of San Isidro. Both offer the beautiful bare wooden decoration in an outdoor styled setting (heating included, don’t worry!).
La Cabrera
This Argentine steakhouse really offers a beautiful journey through the meats of South America. Enjoy detailed explanations of the meat and the wine pairing as you explore through your palette.
El Parrillón de Pablo Profumo
Large portions with a beautiful flavor waits for you at El Parrillón de Pablo Profumo. This beautiful intimate dining experience is a long-loved member of the Peruvian steak circuit and is a great spot for meat lovers to unwind.
Dondoh
Home of Asian Barbeque, Dondoh has some truly exquisite flavors as you sample the fusion food, and of course, it is beautifully plated. This is a great restaurant in Lima for you to really relax and soak up the atmosphere.
La Tranquera
This grill restaurant in Lima takes itself a little less seriously than the others on this list, but it doesn’t compromise quality. Enjoy as many different types of meat as you can think of and a cocktail to boot. People come here to relax and enjoy the food.
Best Chinese / Chifa restaurants in Lima
Chifa is Chinese Peruvian fusion food, and it’s become an extremely popular type of food across all of Peru. It’s certainly something that you should give a try when you visit Lima.
Check Out: Our cook in the home of a Lima Chef experience for a truly authentic experience, and to take home a little knowledge of Peruvian cuisine!
Titi
Open for over 20 years, Titi’s Chifa offers a true fusion style. Specializing in duck as well as more traditional Chinese dishes, Titi’s has something for everyone to enjoy.
Madam Tusan
Probably one of the most famous chifa restaurants in Lima, Madam Tusan offers dim sum as well as larger plates. The prices are relatively high, but portions are big enough for you to be having leftovers for lunch.
Hou Wha
A cut above the average, Hou Wha offers a slightly more traditional chifa, as well as plenty of side dishes and different Peking dishes for you to try.
O-Mei
Certainly, O-Mei is on the pricier side of the chifas in Peru, but it does offer a little extra quality and delight for the tag. You can enjoy dim sum and more traditional Chinese dishes as well as the Chifa.
Wa Lok
Probably the most authentic dim sum restaurant in Lima, Wa Lok offers Cantonese dishes alongside a healthy mix of Chifa fusion. The setting is more similar to a traditional Chinese banquet hall, so there are no concerns about space.
Royal
Royal offers an all-you-can-eat experience, which is a big pull for many. While it is a fusion restaurant, it sits closer to traditional Chinese dishes. Check it out if you’re hungry!
Salón Capón
Found inside Lima’s Chinatown, Salon Capon is a touch more authentic than the other Chinese restaurants surrounding it. It’s not fancy and it’s not trying to be anything it isn’t. What it is is a no-nonsense Chinese spot offering some incredible dim sum.
If you’re a foodie, why not check out our Farm to Table: Culinary Experience of Peru adventure, or our cooking class in the home of a Peruvian Chef?
Lung Fung
Cheap, cheerful, and a great price to the quality balance. Lung Fung has low prices, a great location, and will satisfy every Chifa desire you have. Be sure to check it out.
Kuo Wha
Another buffet option, Kuo Wha has many choices and offers plenty for each guest to enjoy- all for a great and reasonable price. It’s a great place for you to relax and catch up with some friends.
Best Italian restaurants in Lima
Italian food is a great staple, and it’s something that is enjoyed around the world. If you want to get your fix of the good stuff, this list summarizes some of the best Italian restaurants in Lima. Check them out for your pesto and pizza fix.
La Trattoria Di Mambrino
Found in Larcomar, this restaurant has some of the best views in Lima. Overlooking the ocean with a wide selection of authentic style Italian food, the location alone makes this a worthwhile restaurant to visit in Lima.
San Ceferino
Big portions are part and package of your experience here- as is the incredible interior decorating. Built like a pirate ship with hundreds of bottles of wine and rum covering the ceiling there is a lot to look at and a lot to enjoy while you’re here.
Osteria Convivium
A beautiful place with some truly exceptional dishes. There’s lots of plants and greenery decorating the space and the dishes are well thought out, well-executed, and beautifully presented. This is the perfect date spot in Lima.
Check Out: Our cook in the home of a Lima Chef experience for a truly authentic experience, and to take home a little knowledge of Peruvian cuisine!
Dánica
Simple, elegant, and delicious, Danica has it all. With beautifully put together plates, and a healthy mix of Italian and fusion dishes, Danica really is a great place for travelers and locals alike to enjoy some delicious food from a varied menu.
If you’re a foodie, why not check out our Farm to Table: Culinary Experience of Peru adventure, or our cooking class in the home of a Peruvian Chef?
La Bodega de la Trattoria
Tasty, beautiful, and unassuming dishes await you here. There are several locations of La Bodega de la Trattoria found throughout Lima, so there’s plenty of different spots for you to enjoy this beautiful food.
Don Vito
Don Vito has been in this location for 38 years- which should tell you everything you need to know! Delicious and authentic sauces from Northern Italy as well as nice music and an authentic Italian vibe. A great place to visit.
La Linterna
A cozy spot in the San Isidro district, La Linterna is a popular Italian and pizza place. If you’re looking for a homey, cozy atmosphere then this is the place for you. The portions are large, and the food is delicious!
El Italiano
Found in the historic center of Lima, El Italiano offers an excellent Ossobuco (slow-cooked beef with bones) and really excellent sangria. The ambiance is relaxed and cozy, making the restaurant a great stop after exploring the center.
Antica Pizzería
Artisanal food in a romantic setting. Whether you prefer homemade pizza or the famous osso buco, Antica Pizzería has some great choices for everyone. There are vegan options and delicious desserts.
Best Japanese/ Peruvian- Japanese ( Nikkei) restaurants in Lima
Peru and Japan have strong historical ties- similar to Peru and China. A lot of traditional Peruvian cuisine has roots in both of these countries. However, to get a truly spectacular fusion, travelers should try Nikkei cuisine while visiting Lima.
Maido
Maido is without a doubt one of the best restaurants in Lima, and in Peru as a whole. Time and time again it has been one of the front runners in lists of the best restaurants in the world, and time and time again it has proved to its patrons exactly why it has won its place there.
If you’re a foodie, why not check out our Farm to Table: Culinary Experience of Peru adventure, or our cooking class in the home of a Peruvian Chef?
Osaka
Another fine dining restaurant, Osaka goes from strength to strength. The fish is fresh and so delicately prepared that even the most staunch opponent of fish will fall in love with the dishes. Its beauty, and its grace.
Costanera 700
A restaurant with different sections to offer a more secluded dining experience, Costanera 700 is yet another Japanese restaurant in Lima with incredibly luxurious dishes and a beautiful experience waiting for its guests.
Hanzo Peruvian Japanese Cuisine
One of the best Peruvian Japanese fusion restaurants in Lima, Hanzo offers something for everyone. It’s on the pricier side but has a huge selection of different dishes and culinary experiences for those who choose to dine here.
Edo Sushi Bar
Another regular face on every best restaurant in Lima blog, Edo offers tasting sushi cuts, makis, and more. Edo is the place to visit if you’re looking for tasty authentic Japanese sushi in Lima (with the occasional Peruvian twist).
Matsuei
Lauded time and time again for the international standard of the food they produce, Matsuei offers modern takes on traditional Japanese cuisine- beautifully plated of course. They also have exceptional service, which is not always the case in Lima restaurants!
Toshi Restaurante Nikkei
Toshi offers slightly different dishes, focusing more on main plates than their other Japanese counterparts (although makis and sushi cuts are still available). This food is innovative and beautifully presented. Don’t miss it if you’re looking for a Japanese restaurant in Lima.
Dondoh
Japanese barbeque is the specialty at Dondoh, and oh boy do they do it well! It offers a carefully curated menu with a small selection of meats, as well as a cocktail menu perfect for the food. Dondoh is an amazing spot to indulge yourself.
Ache
With a huge selection of fresh fish, traditional, yet innovative Nikkei cuisine, Ache offers a beautiful understated modern elegance. Come hungry and load up on lots of smaller dishes.
Best Criolla restaurants in Lima
Criolla is traditional Peruvian cuisine- and so the best criolla restaurants in Lima are somewhere that most travelers and visitors of Peru should be aiming to visit. Whichever one you choose is up to you!
Isolina, Taberna Peruana
Huge portions and deliciously authentic dishes are waiting for you in Isolina. With dishes from all over Peru and specializing in the truly criolla, this is a great place to really get a taste of Peru.
If you’re a foodie, why not check out our Farm to Table: Culinary Experience of Peru adventure, or our cooking class in the home of a Peruvian Chef?
Fiesta Chiclayo Gourmet Lima
You may recognize this entry as it appeared in our best restaurants in Peru blog. It’s only right that it would be seen on this list of best restaurants in Lima as well. Come here for good food and a great atmosphere!
José Antonio
With a huge menu and dishes ranging from meat plates to seafood, José Antonio has a selection fit for a king, queen, or Spanish politician (as the name may suggest). 30 years of service has left them well-practiced in the art of dining.
Panchita – Sazón Criolla
If you’ve ever wondered how the grandparents of the famous Peruvian chefs serve their food, this is the place to come. It’s hugely popular and well known and offers huge and beautifully prepared dishes for every palette.
Huaca Pucllana
Visiting Huaca Pucllana is an experience- and a hell of a one at that. Set in pre-Inca ruins close to the bustling Miraflores district, Huaca Pucllana is a beautiful spot for travelers to enjoy the finer end of restaurants in Lima without breaking the bank.
El Rincón que No Conoces
A great, off-the-beaten-track lunch spot for tourists who are constantly looking for the less-touristy side of things. It’s particularly famous for its signature Tacu Tere- a twist on the classic tacu tacu enjoyed by Peruvians.
La Picantería
Choose your fish from the selection in front of you- literally. You know it’s fresh and you know it’s for you. The seafood is exquisite and an excellent spot for diners who love the finer things in life.
El Señorío de Sulco
A beautiful location with beautiful dishes, El Señorío de Sulco brings a little of history into the Lima restaurant, right alongside the huge selection of plates and delicious dishes for you to sample.
Best contemporary Peruvian cuisine restaurants in Lima
This section has a lot of the best fine-dining restaurants in Lima on its list. Some of the best chefs in the world have claimed Lima as their home, and they are producing some incredible dishes, restaurants, and fusion cusines. This list is a must for foodies visiting Peru.
Rafael
Rafael is famous. Not just in Peru, but with restaurant lovers across the world. It’s fine dining at its peak and a truly once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience for you to take on while visiting this restaurant in Lima.
If you’re a foodie, why not check out our Farm to Table: Culinary Experience of Peru adventure, or our cooking class in the home of a Peruvian Chef?
Central
Central is created to guide its guests through the different areas of Peru and explore the different cuisines- all with a fine dining experience unmatched by any other restaurant in Lima. In fact, Central is another restaurant that regularly finds itself in the top 10 best restaurants in the world.
Amoramar
A hidden gem in the heart of Barranco, Amoramar offers seafood-heavy dishes. Not quite a fine-dining spot, but certainly beautifully plated dishes, this is a beautiful place for you to enjoy fresh seafood in a modern and upscale restaurant.
Astrid & Gastón
The brainchild of famous celebrity chef couple Astrid & Gaston Acurio, Astrid & Gaston offers beautiful plates across the board. They also recently introduced a brunch menu, which showcases some of the best that they have to offer- for a reasonable price!
La Gloria
Understated decoration may lead you to the wrong conclusion that La Gloria is a low-key restaurant. In fact, the dishes themselves are true works of art. With great service to boot, this is a great restaurant in Lima to take someone to if you want to surprise them.
Cosme
A beautiful selection of different types of dishes, as well as modern and stylish decor. Cosme has a lot to offer its patrons so settle in and get ready to enjoy the ride!
Huaca Pucllana
This is the second time Huaca Pucllana has made it on this list- and for good reason. In case you missed the last entry- Huaca Pucllana is found on the grounds of pre-Inca ruins and offers a modern and delightful take on Peruvian classics, as well as bringing something new to the table each time.
Maras
Great ambiance in the restaurant and of course, beautifully plated dishes and well-balanced flavors. The quality of the dishes is extremely high, so expect prices to be on the higher side- but also expect to truly savor every bite.
Best fish and seafood restaurants in Lima
Restaurnats in Lima are famous for their seafood. One of the largest coastal capitals in the world, Lima has a seemingly endless supply of deliciously fresh fish, and much of the cuisine of the city is based around fish dishes. To come to Lima and not try seafood is to do yourself a huge disservice.
Costanera 700
A Japanese restaurant in Peru, Costanera 700 is one of the favorites of restaurant lovers in Lima. It offers beautifully cultivated and authentic Japanese cuisine, with a Peruvian twist (of course!).
El Mercado
All kinds of different fish and seafood dishes are served here. It’s another brainchild of Rafael Osterling and is another regular feature in the top 50 restaurants lists. It’s designed to offer fine dining at a reasonable price, so drop in while you’re visiting restaurants in Lima!
La Mar
La Mar is one of the most celebrated ceviche restaurants in Lima. It also often sees long lines for their famous lunch service. It’s recommended that you make a reservation in order to save your time and guarantee you that sweet ceviche.
Pescados Capitales
Beautiful dishes at a reasonable price, Pescados Capitales offers a huge selection of different types of seafood. From classic Peruvian dishes like ceviche to tuna steak, this is a great restaurant in Lima to visit if those in your party want different types of dishes.
If you’re a foodie, why not check out our Farm to Table: Culinary Experience of Peru adventure, or our cooking class in the home of a Peruvian Chef?
Amoramar
A hidden gem in the heart of Barranco, Amoramar offers seafood-heavy dishes. Not quite a fine dining restaurant but certainly beautifully plated dishes, this is a beautiful place for you to enjoy fresh seafood in a modern and upscale restaurant.
Francesco
Boasting a beautiful view of the Malecon and the ocean, Francesco offers perfectly balanced, perfectly executed Peruvian coastal classics. Dish after dish is masterfully prepared and created with love, passion, and experience.
La Picanteria
Choose your fish from the selection in front of you- literally. You know it’s fresh and you know it’s for you. The seafood is exquisite and an excellent spot for diners who love the finer things in life.
La Red
A more upscale spot out of the seafood restaurants in Lima, La Red has the feel of an expensive place to it. The quality matches up to the price list, so there’s no need to worry. You can also enjoy the complete and extensive selection of alcohol here.
Chez Wong
Chez Wong comes recommended by world-famous Peruvian chef Gaston Acurio. Here, the seafood is made in front of you, and you can enjoy the dish fresh as it comes.
Best bar/ lounge style restaurants in Lima
If what you’re looking for is a restaurant in Lima where you can relax with a few drinks, and generally just unwind after a long day then these are some of the best places for you to visit.
Bottega Dasso
A beautiful, intimate little spot for you to enjoy. The food is good but the drinks and the setting for a bar are perfect. A great place to enjoy with a small group of friends or a good spot for a date as well.
Hotel B
Hotel B is elegance in a building. It has been designed as a meeting point for luxury and the bohemian art district where it is located. It offers tasting dishes and is also a great spot for relaxing while feeling good.
Cala
Another spot in the trendy Barranco district, Cala is an upscale place with a delightful cocktail list and drinks menu. There are some nibbles, but it’s a great place to unwind with a glass of wine or a cocktail with friends, colleagues, or family.
La Cucharita
La Cucharita is a tapas bar with relaxed, outdoor seating and a beautiful view of the city. The cocktails are beautiful and the tapas are delicious. This is a restaurant in Lima that you don’t want to miss.
Olé Restaurante
A small and intimate restaurant with a weighted drinks menu, the food, service, and of course, the drinks, are unrivaled. There’s a huge selection of different liquors to try, so make sure that you come sober- and get a taxi home!
If you’re a foodie, why not check out our Farm to Table: Culinary Experience of Peru adventure, or our cooking class in the home of a Peruvian Chef?
Lima 27
Another tapas bar, Lima 27 is a truly fantastic spot to order a bottle of wine or some cocktails, sit back and just enjoy the atmosphere. With indoor and outdoor seating as well as an extensive menu to choose from, there’s something for everyone at this Lima restaurant.
Ayahuasca
Huge with romantic lighting, plenty of unique and classic cocktails as well as an extensive menu ranging from small starters to sharing plates, Ayahuasca is a beautiful spot in Barranco with indoor and outdoor seating alike. Make a reservation for the weekend.
Antigua Bodega DE (La Dalmacia)
Nice food, a good atmosphere, and relaxed seating available. This is a great spot for dinner and drinks as long as you’re looking to keep it a little more relaxed- but still a high-end atmosphere.
LA73
Great food, friendly atmosphere, and service. Come here for some great drinks and a relaxed vibe with some friends. Order the octopus and the pisco sour.
