Summary
Food experts Rosemary and Claire of Authentic Food Quest share their favourite Cusco restaurants where you can eat like a local and enjoy an authentic Peruvian dining experience.
Cusco is considered the second gastronomy city in Peru after Lima, known for its extraordinary cuisine from the Peruvian Andes.
Unsurprisingly, Machu Picchu and the Inca ruins garner the most attention. However, we believe that dining at local Cusco restaurants and experiencing traditional food is the most fulfilling way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
5 Authentic Cusco Restaurants
Peruvian cuisine is renowned worldwide for its mouthwatering flavors. In fact, for six consecutive years, Peru has been honored as the “World’s Leading Culinary Destination.”
In Cusco, the local culinary scene is greatly influenced by the geography of the Andes. Expect to find a plethora of native ingredients, including various potatoes, corn, quinoa, and special herbs. The local meats include chalaca, alpaca, and traditional pork dishes, among others.
As you explore Cusco, here are the top five authentic restaurants to savor local gastronomy.
1. Mercado San Pedro for Caldo de Gallina
Mercado San Pedro, or San Pedro Market, is a vital hub in Cusco. It is the ideal place to discover local ingredients and the wonderful flavors of the Peruvian Andean diet.
Upon entering San Pedro Market, you’ll be immediately immersed in the vibrant local atmosphere. Unlike sanitized markets in America or Europe, this market boasts lively noise, unique scents, and vivid colors.
Head to the gastronomy section, filled with locals enjoying their lunch, and join in! Line up for the local specialty, Caldo de Gallina. This delightful soup features a rich broth, hearty pieces of boiled chicken, onions, carrots, spices, ginger, and noodles. Prepared fresh on-site, you won’t want to miss this local favorite during your visit to Cusco.
Address: Cascaparo, Cusco
Hours: Open daily, 6:00 am – 8:00 pm
Tip: Visit for lunch and don’t hesitate to eat with the locals!
2. La Cusqueñita for Chiriuchu
Chiriuchu is Cusco’s Iconic Festive Dish
The origins of Chiriuchu can be traced back to the Inca Empire, when villagers traveled to Cusco with their culinary specialties to participate in religious celebrations.
Today, Chiriuchu is prepared primarily during the month of June, coinciding with the Corpus Christi festival.
In Quechua, “Chiriuchu” means cold and spicy. The dish features various ingredients sourced from Peru’s coast, highlands, and Amazon rainforest, including seaweed, fish roes, guinea pig, charqui (jerky), potatoes, corn cakes, cheese, and rocoto. Everything is beautifully arranged and topped with spicy peppers.
Outside of June, the best option to savor this festive dish is at a traditional restaurant. We recommend La Cusqueñita, a pikanteria (a traditional meat restaurant) beloved by locals. This cozy eatery specializes in regional traditional dishes.
La Cusquenita
Address: Ave Tullumayo No. 227, Wanchaq, Cusco
Hours: Monday – Saturday, 11:00 am to 5:00 pm & 6:30 pm- 11:00 pm; Sundays, 11:00 am to 5:00 pm
Tip: Pair your meal with the local Chicha beer.
3. Cuyeria Sabor Moqueguano for Guinea Pig
Believe it or not, this is a popular Peruvian delicacy.
Visitors to Cusco often have mixed reactions to Cuy (guinea pig), a unique culinary experience from the Andes. While many people worldwide view guinea pigs as pets, in Peru, the practice of consuming guinea pig dates back to ancient times.
In fact, ancient Peruvians commonly included this high-protein, low-fat meat in their diets.
Several restaurants in Cusco feature cuy on their menus, often aiming to attract curious tourists. However, for an authentic experience, make your way to Cuyeria Sabor Moqueguano, a local restaurant renowned for this delicacy.
Hidden in a residential area, this local gem only offers one dish: Cuy, prepared either al horno (baked) or chactado (fried). Opt for the traditional Cuy chactado.
The decor is rustic, featuring wooden tables and chairs, creating a warm atmosphere. Expect to see families with children enjoying Cuy together.
Cuy is served whole, complete with the head, feet, and teeth, so prepare for an adventurous dining experience. As you indulge, the first bite is delightfully crunchy, revealing a well-seasoned skin underneath. Although there’s not much meat to be found, the flavor and experience are truly unique to Andean culture.
Address: 28 de Julio, Tercer Paradero, Cusco
Hours: Open daily, 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
Tip: Visit on a Sunday for lunch, but arrive early as the restaurant often runs out of cuy.
4. Los Toldos Chicken
Cusco’s Celebrated Peruvian Style Roast Chicken
Pollo a la Brasa is not just any rotisserie chicken; it’s a celebrated Peruvian dish. This “finger-lickin’ good” chicken even has its own holiday, celebrated on the third Sunday in July, known as “Día del Pollo a la Brasa”.
Los Toldos Chicken is regarded as one of the best pollerias (restaurants specializing in this dish) in Cusco. Conveniently located just a short walk from the main Plaza de Armas, this cozy eatery invites you to enjoy a delicious meal.
Indulge in perfectly seasoned, mouthwatering chicken served with papa fritas (fries) made from flavorful Peruvian potatoes. A fresh salad bar is also available to complement your meal.
Join the locals and savor the chicken with your hands for an authentic experience. Don’t leave Cusco without trying this iconic dish!
Address: Calle Almagro 171, Cusco
Hours: Open daily from 12:15 pm to 11:00 pm
Tip: Enjoy a Pisco Sour, Peru’s national drink, alongside your meal.
5. Chicha – by Gastón Acurio
Experience Andean Gastronomy by Peru’s Most Celebrated Chef.
From the creative mind of prominent chef Gastón Acurio comes Chicha, a restaurant named after a traditional Peruvian corn-based beverage. If you’re eager to try regional Andean cuisine crafted by one of the country’s top chefs, this dining establishment is a must-visit.
Situated within walking distance of the Plaza de Armas, Chicha occupies the second level of a historical building featuring charming blue-painted balconies. Enjoy breathtaking views overlooking the bustling Plaza Regocijo.
The menu boasts classic Peruvian offerings, including ceviche, causa (a popular Peruvian potato starter), and various local staples like rocoto relleno, alpaca, and regional pork delicacies.
If you haven’t had the chance to dine at Gastón Acurio’s flagship restaurant in Lima, Astrid & Gastón, visiting Chicha offers an opportunity to enjoy local cuisine with an elegant twist.
Address: Plaza Regocijo 261, 2do piso, Cusco
Hours: Open daily, 12:00 pm – 11:30 pm
Tip: Reservation in advance is recommended.
Embark on an unforgettable culinary journey and immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Cusco, where each restaurant offers a unique taste of traditional Peruvian cuisine! Discover the best ways to experience local food by exploring these remarkable dining options.
