People know Cusco for its Incan ruins, beautiful landscapes, and rich history. But did you know it also has amazing Asian food? Many years of migration have influenced Cusco’s food scene with Chinese, Japanese, and Thai cultures. This mix has created unique fusion dishes that combine Asian cooking methods with Peruvian ingredients.
If you want fresh sushi, tasty stir-fried noodles, or spicy Thai curries, you will find something delicious in the Andes. Here’s a guide to the best asian restaurants in Cusco, featuring top-rated restaurants that will satisfy your cravings!
Asian Migration to Peru and Its Culinary Influence
A Legacy of Flavors: The Chinese and Japanese Influence
Asian culture has had a huge impact on Peruvian cuisine. In the mid-19th century, Chinese immigrants arrived in Peru as laborers, working on plantations, railways, and mines. By the early 20th century, Japanese immigrants also settled in Peru, introducing their culinary traditions.
Over time, these influences blended with local ingredients and flavors, creating unique dishes like “Chifa” (Chinese-Peruvian fusion) and “Nikkei” (Japanese-Peruvian fusion). Today, Cusco’s Asian food scene continues to grow, offering authentic flavors with a Peruvian twist.
How Peruvian Ingredients Enhance Asian Cuisine
One interesting thing about Asian restaurants in Cusco is the use of local Andean ingredients. Chefs incorporate these ingredients into traditional Asian recipes. Here are a few examples:
- Quinoa in Sushi Rolls – Some restaurants use quinoa instead of white rice in sushi rolls. This adds a nutty texture and increases protein.
- Ají Amarillo in Stir-Fries – Ají Amarillo is a spicy yellow pepper. It brings a special Peruvian flavor. You can use it in Thai curries and Chinese stir-fries.
- Cuy (Guinea Pig) in Asian Fusion Dishes – Some upscale restaurants use this Andean delicacy in their meals. They create an exciting mix of flavors.
- Chicha Morada Beverages are a traditional drink from Peru. Manufacturers make them from purple corn. Restaurants often serve this drink with Asian meals for a refreshing taste.
Now, let’s explore the top Asian restaurants in Cusco where you can taste these incredible flavors!
Top 5 Best Asian Restaurants in Cusco
1. Kion Peruvian Chinese – The Best Chifa Experience 🌟
📍 Location: Calle Triunfo 370, Cusco
🌟 Best For: Upscale Chifa cuisine
Located just a block from Plaza de Armas, Kion Peruvian Chinese brings the best of Chifa cuisine to Cusco. Inspired by 1950s Hong Kong, this elegant restaurant serves classic Chinese dishes infused with Peruvian flavors.
What makes it special?
- Elegant, vintage-style decor transports you to another era.
- Authentic Chinese flavors with Peruvian twists.
- Extensive menu featuring everything from dumplings to seafood stir-fries.
Must-Try Dishes:
👉 Lomo Saltado Chifa – A twist on Peru’s famous stir-fried beef dish.
👉 Arroz Chaufa – The Peruvian version of Chinese fried rice.
👉 Peking Duck – A crispy, flavorful delight.
🍽️ Perfect for: Travelers looking for a sophisticated dining experience with authentic Chifa flavors.
2. UFO Asian Food – Best Japanese Fusion 🍜
📍 Location: Carmen Bajo 222, Cusco
🌟 Best For: Casual Japanese-Asian fusion
If you’re craving Japanese food with a twist, UFO Asian Food is the place to be. This casual and cozy spot serves a mix of Japanese, Chinese, and Thai dishes. One of the top recommendations is the Yakiudon—a delicious stir-fried udon noodle dish packed with rich flavors.
Why you should go:
- Fast, fresh, and budget-friendly.
- Generous portions.
- Great variety of dishes beyond sushi.
Must-Try Dishes:
👉 Yakiudon – Stir-fried udon with vegetables and protein.
👉 Thai Green Curry – Creamy and packed with fresh herbs.
👉 Sushi Rolls – Fresh and flavorful.
🍽️ Perfect for: Laid-back travelers looking for a quick, satisfying, and affordable meal.
3. Yokomo Restaurant Cusco – Best Sushi Experience 🍣
📍 Location: Plaza San Blas 641, Cusco
🌟 Best For: Sushi lovers
Yokomo Restaurant is a hidden gem in Cusco for sushi lovers. It offers an extensive menu of fresh sushi rolls, sashimi, and other Japanese delights. With a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed dining experience.
Must-Try Dishes:
👉 Dragon Roll – A sushi roll packed with fresh flavors.
👉 Nigiri Sampler – A mix of the best sushi pieces.
👉 Ramen – Warm, comforting, and full of depth.
🍽️ Perfect for: Anyone craving fresh sushi and authentic Japanese flavors in the Andes.
4. Tak Thai – Peruvian Fusion – Best Thai-Peruvian Fusion 🇹🇼
📍 Location: Tecsecocha 474, Cusco
🌟 Best For: Thai food lovers
If you’re in the mood for bold Thai flavors, Tak Thai is a must-visit. They use traditional Thai recipes and combine them with Peruvian ingredients. This creates a unique fusion you won’t find anywhere else.
Must-Try Dishes:
👉 Pad Thai – The classic stir-fried noodle dish with a Peruvian touch.
👉 Green Curry – Spicy, rich, and packed with coconut flavors.
👉 Thai Ceviche – A fresh take on Peru’s national dish.
🍽️ Perfect for: Travelers looking for a fresh take on Thai classics with a Peruvian twist.
5. LIMO Peruano Nikkei – Exquisite Nikkei Cuisine with a View 🍣
📍 Location: Portal de Carnes 236, 2nd Floor, Plaza de Armas, Cusco
🌟 Best For: Nikkei cuisine enthusiasts seeking a blend of Peruvian and Japanese flavors
LIMO Peruano Nikkei is on the second floor of a colonial building. It overlooks Cusco’s main square. The restaurant offers a refined dining experience. It combines traditional Peruvian ingredients with Japanese cooking methods. The restaurant has a stylish atmosphere and a creative menu. This makes it a must-visit place for anyone wanting to enjoy the blend of these two rich food traditions.
What makes it special?
- Stunning Views: Diners enjoy panoramic vistas of the Plaza de Armas, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Innovative Nikkei Menu: A diverse selection of dishes that seamlessly blend Peruvian and Japanese flavors.
- Extensive Pisco Bar: An impressive array of pisco-based cocktails, incorporating exotic fruits from the Andes and the Amazon.
Must-Try Dishes:
👉 Tiradito Nikkei: This dish features thinly sliced fish in a tangy sauce. It combines Japanese sashimi and Peruvian ceviche perfectly.
👉 Lomo Saltado Roll: This is a unique sushi roll inspired by the classic Peruvian stir-fry. It combines tender beef and fresh vegetables.
👉 Quinotto with Seafood: A creamy quinoa risotto mixed with a variety of seafood. It highlights local ingredients with a Japanese twist.
🍽️ Perfect for: Diners looking for a fine dining experience that combines Peruvian and Japanese foods. Enjoy stunning views of Cusco’s historic center.
Explore all top Asian restaurants in Cusco with Explorify Expeditions!
Ready to explore Cusco’s incredible food, culture, and history? At Explorify Expeditions, our local guides will show you more than just the usual tourist spots. They will take you to the best Asian restaurants in Cusco and to hidden gems not found in guidebooks.
