When it comes to culinary capitals of the world, Lima holds its own among giants like Paris, Tokyo, and New York. With its vibrant food scene blending indigenous ingredients, colonial traditions, and modern innovation, Lima is a true paradise for food lovers.
Ready to plan your perfect culinary adventure? Here are the top 10 restaurants in Lima you can’t miss:
Central (Barranco)
Consistently ranked among the World’s Best Restaurants, Central is a true Peruvian institution. Chef Virgilio Martínez crafts a tasting menu that journeys through Peru’s diverse ecosystems — from the Pacific Ocean to the Amazon.
Must-try: The 16-course tasting menu exploring altitudes and ecosystems.
Maido (Miraflores)
Craving Nikkei cuisine? Chef Mitsuharu Tsumura’s Maido blends Japanese techniques with Peruvian flavors in a way that’s absolutely unforgettable.
Must-try: 12-course Nikkei Experience menu — pure fusion brilliance.
Astrid y Gastón (San Isidro)
Founders Gastón Acurio and Astrid Gutsche sparked Peru’s gastronomic renaissance.
Their historic hacienda setting, beautiful presentation, and deep Peruvian flavors make it a must-visit.
Must-try: Guinea pig confit (an elevated take on traditional cuy).
Rafael (Miraflores)
A stylish, art-filled restaurant where creativity meets comfort. Chef Rafael Osterling’s menu offers international flavors with strong Peruvian roots.
Must-try: Crab ravioli in a rocoto butter sauce.
La Mar (Miraflores)
Looking for the best ceviche in Lima? La Mar, also from Gastón Acurio, offers the freshest seafood around, in a vibrant, casual setting perfect for lunch.
Must-try: Trio of ceviches and a pisco sour.
El Mercado (Miraflores)
Another seafood haven, but with an open-air market vibe. Chef Rafael Osterling’s second Lima spot offers dynamic, ever-changing seafood creations.
Must-try: Tiradito de pescado (Peruvian sashimi).
Isolina (Barranco)
Step into a traditional Peruvian tavern where hearty criollo dishes reign.
Isolina offers a delicious deep dive into Peru’s home-style comfort food.
Must-try: Seco de asado de tira (beef stew with cilantro sauce).
Osso (La Molina/San Isidro)
Carnivores rejoice!
Chef Renzo Garibaldi’s Osso is Lima’s premier butcher shop and steakhouse rolled into one.
Must-try: Bone marrow and a perfectly grilled ribeye.
ámaZ (Miraflores)
Bringing Amazonian ingredients to Lima, ámaZ is a beautiful, exotic dining experience focusing on native plants, river fish, and rare flavors.
Must-try: Paiche fish served with yucca.
La Picantería (Surquillo)
At La Picantería, you sit at communal tables and order the “catch of the day” — whole fish cooked any way you want.
It’s lively, authentic, and proudly Peruvian.
Must-try: Whole fried fish with a side of ají amarillo sauce.
Final Thoughts
In Lima, eating isn’t just a meal — it’s an adventure through Peru’s cultural, historical, and ecological diversity. From award-winning tasting menus to soulful street eats, every dish tells a story.
Book your table, loosen your belt, and dive into one of the world’s most exciting food scenes.
