The 12 Best Restaurants In Cusco: Great Places To Eat In Cusco

Looking for the best restaurants in Cusco to satisfy your taste buds during your visit to this ancient city? Here is a list of what we consider the top 12 places for a great meal — plus some honorable mentions.

Now, Cusco has a wide selection of restaurants to choose from, ranging from traditional Peruvian cuisine to international fusion dishes, so our list is hardly exhaustive. However, our top 12 picks offer a range of culinary experiences, from elegant fine dining to casual and trendy spots. No matter which restaurant you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable culinary experience in Cusco, one of the best places for food in South America.

Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse

Uchú, which means chilli pepper in the native Quechua language, was established in 2013 by our personal favorite restaurateurs chef Erick Paz Gallegos and Eli Schumacher.

Nestled behind ancient adobe and Inca stonework walls, Uchu is conveniently located just a short walk from Cusco’s Plaza de Armas and the charming Plaza Nazarenas, where some of Cusco’s finest hotels — including the Belmond Monasterio and Palacio Nazarenas and Inkaterra La Casona — are located.

If you are meat lover, Uchu is a must-visit for a delightful lunch or dinner experience. The interior features bold turquoise walls adorned with clay and straw adobe panels, complemented by velour banquettes. The three dining rooms are illuminated by flickering candles and futuristic silver-bauble lights hanging from the rustic wooden beams.

Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse’s menu is centered around its specialty: high-quality cuts of beef, alpaca and Sicuani grass-fed lamb cooked on slabs of hot volcanic rock. The restaurant offers a variety of beef cuts, including rib-eye, sirloin, and tenderloin.

Try the succulent BBQ ribs prepared with traditional, spicy elderberry or honey mustard sauce.

In addition to meat dishes, the menu features a selection of seafood dishes, including grilled octopus and ceviche. The parmesan and lime shrimp and pan-seared trout are outstanding! Vegetarian options are also available, such as quinoa salad and vegetable stir-fry.

The restaurant also boasts a unique feature — a glass wine cellar that houses an extensive collection of wines from Peru and around the world. Guests can choose from a wide selection of red and white wines to pair with their meal.

Price Range

The price range of Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse is considered to be moderate to high. The average cost of a meal for two people, including drinks, is around $60 to $80 USD.

Location

Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse is located on Calle Palacio within walking distance from most of the major tourist attractions in the city. Here is the full address:

• Address: Calle Palacio N° 761, Cusco, Peru
• Phone: +51 84 242850

LIMO Cocina Peruana & Pisco Bar

For those looking for a romantic setting, Limo Cocina Peruana is a great option. Offering a highland take on coastal Nikkei cuisine, a traditional fusion of Peruvian and Japanese flavors, Limo uses the finest local ingredients.

Located just beside the cathedral, Limo stands as one of Cusco’s most popular restaurants. This exquisite setting is perfect for savoring a pre-dinner drink while the sun gracefully sets behind the majestic mountains.

Try the Nikkei style fish dishes at LIMO

Limo is renowned for its exceptional ceviche and delectable fish dishes, but its culinary offerings extend far beyond that. In addition to authentic Peruvian cuisine, the menu offers innovative fusion dishes that showcase the finest local ingredients. Indulge in the succulent grilled alpaca seasoned with fragrant rosemary or savor the flavors of quinoa risotto.

Limo’s reputation for its pisco drinks is well-deserved, adding an extra touch of delight to your meal. As a delightful departure from the usual bread offerings, the basket of native potatoes with accompanying sauces serves as a starter. The tiraditos, delicately sliced fish reminiscent of sashimi, effortlessly melt on the tongue, leaving a lingering impression.

Other standout dishes include avocado and prawns, covered with parmigiana scallops, shrimp furai and avocado, topped with spicy sour togarashi scallops, the fusion of lomo saltado with Japanese udon noodles and the paiche amazon fish grilled filet marinated in miso and passion fruit.

Price Range

The price range at LIMO Cocina Peruana & Pisco Bar is considered to be in the mid- to high-range for Cusco. The average cost of a main dish is around USD $20-$25. The amazing cocktails at the Pisco Bar range from $10-$15 USD. The cost of a meal for two people, including drinks, will run you anywhere from $50 USD to $176 USD.

Location

LIMO Cocina Peruana & Pisco Bar is located on the second floor of Portal de Carnes, overlooking Cusco’s main square.

• Address: Portal de Carnes N° 236, 2nd Floor, Plaza de Armas, Cusco
• Phone: +51 84 237 791

El Tupay Restaurant – Luxury Belmond

El Tupay Restaurant, located within the luxury Belmond Hotel Monasterio, offers a fusion of international cuisines with a Peruvian twist for a very elegant culinary experience.

El Tupay, meaning “meeting” in Quechua, is situated in the refectory of the restored 16th-century monastery. At the helm of El Tupay is Chef Jorge Baqua, who uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create classic recipes like mushroom risotto and vegetable fettuccine, confit duck and chateaubriand. The menu also features Peruvian favorites, showcasing the country’s rich culinary heritage. Chef Baqua’s love for food and haute cuisine shines through in every dish.

The foie-gras terrine with fig compote is a particularly fabulous French-inspired starter.

Chef Baqua himself takes the time to speak to diners, adding a personal touch to the meal. To top it all off, desserts are made “live” at a table in the corner, providing a unique and interactive experience for guests.

Don’t miss the Tupay Restaurant Opera Nights on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturdays. Enjoy great food and classical music with the excellent acoustics of the room.

Price Range

Tupay is one of the pricier restaurants in Cusco, with starters running around $35 and entres upwards of $40, but the service is nothing short of excellent, as you would expect from a Belmond-owned property.

• Address: Nazarenas N° 337, Cusco
• Phone: +51 84 604000

Chicha por Gastón Acurio

Chicha por Gastón Acurio stands as one of Cusco’s most renowned restaurants, nestled on Plaza Regocijo. Led by the esteemed Peruvian chef, Gastón Acurio, this establishment offers a delightful fusion of traditional Peruvian cuisine with a modern twist. The cozy and welcoming atmosphere, adorned with vibrant décor, sets the stage for a remarkable meal.

With an open kitchen that allows you to observe the skilled chefs in action, Chicha showcases the rich flavors and indigenous ingredients of the Andes, transporting your taste buds on a trip through Peru’s culinary heritage. Whether you’re seeking an introduction to highland cuisine or simply looking for a delectable meal in Cusco, Chicha por Gastón Acurio is an absolute must-visit.

Traditional Peruvian Cuisine with Gaston Acurio’s Signature Touch

Chicha serves as a culinary haven for those seeking authentic Peruvian flavors in Cusco. The restaurant presents a tantalizing array of traditional Peruvian fare at more affordable prices compared to some of Acurio’s other renowned establishments.

The menu celebrates time-honored recipes crafted with native ingredients sourced from across the country, skillfully blending the flavors of Peru’s highland regions with contemporary culinary techniques. Indulge in the causa, a delightful combination of mashed native potatoes topped with trout, avocado, quail’s egg, and a touch of hot red pepper. Or savor the grilled octopus accompanied by pickled radish and delicate micro herbs.

The selection of soups, salads, and appetizers are standouts, such as quinoa croquettes and Andean ceviche. If you’re lucky, your visit will coincide with their appetizer special, Pekin Cuy (a crispy guinea pig served in the style of Pekin Duck).

Main Dishes: Explore an array of meat, seafood, and vegetarian options, including grilled alpaca, trout seasoned with Andean herbs, and a satisfying vegetable stir-fry. For dessert, indulge your sweet tooth with traditional Peruvian treats like alfajores (shortbread cookies filled with dulce de leche) and picarones (sweet potato and pumpkin doughnuts).

Price Range

Chicha por Gastón Acurio offers a mid-range gastronomic experience, with prices that are higher than some of the more casual eateries in Cusco but remain affordable for most travelers. Main dishes range from approximately $15 to $27 USD, while starters and side dishes range from about 20 to 40 soles ($6 to $12 USD). Desserts typically cost around 20 soles ($6 USD). Please note that prices may vary depending on the season and ingredient availability.

Location

Situated in the heart of Cusco’s historic center, Chicha por Gastón Acurio is on the second floor of a colonial-era mansion, overlooking the intersection of Calle Plaza Regocijo and Calle Choquechaca. If you’re staying in the San Blas neighborhood, a pleasant stroll will bring you to Chicha’s doorstep.

• Address: Plaza Regocijo N° 261, 2nd floor
• Phone: +51 84 240520 / 981409971

Kion Peruvian Chinese

Located just a block away from Cusco’s main square, Kion Peruvian Chinese stands out as a unique and high-end ‘Chifa’ restaurant. ‘Chifa’ refers to Peruvian Chinese cuisine, which emerged from the fusion of Cantonese elements brought by Chinese immigrants and local Peruvian ingredients and traditions. Kion Peruvian Chinese takes this fusion to new heights, offering a delicious food that combines the best of both worlds.

Kion’s interior has the aesthetic of 1950’s Hong Kong with a modern twist that showcases the Cantonese culture. The upmarket and elegant decor sets the stage for a memorable culinary journey.

To embark on your culinary adventure at Kion, start with their delectable Dim Sum, bite-sized portions served in steamer baskets or on small plates to share. At Kion, the Dim Sum selection is a true delight for the senses.

One standout dish is the ‘Buti Kion,’ mini sandwiches made with steamed bread called ‘Min Pao’ and filled with succulent roast duck, pork or Chi Jau Kay (crispy chicken). The slight spiciness of meat perfectly balances with the sweetness of the bread and the crunchy texture of the onion.

Kion Restaurant Main Courses: Traditional and Innovative

Kion Peruvian Chinese takes traditional Peruvian recipes and infuses them with a ‘chifa’ touch. One such example is the classic Peruvian ‘lomo saltado’ served with Chinese pancakes. The tender beef, stir-fried with ginger, hoisin, oyster, and soy sauce, is accompanied by crunchy vegetables, all to be wrapped in the delicate Chinese pancakes. This fusion of flavors creates a mouthwatering dish that perfectly marries tradition with innovation.

Duck lovers will be in for a treat at Kion. Their Pekin duck is prepared to perfection, with a crispy exterior and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness on the inside. The Ti Pa Kay is another must-try dish that showcases the versatility of ingredients: a dark meat chicken filet, filled with peach, golden Inca berry, pineapple, yellow chili and tamarind sauce.

The Kion Experience: Fresh, Local, and No MSG

At Kion Peruvian Chinese, they pride themselves on using the best and freshest ingredients available. Kion does not use MSG (monosodium glutamate).

Price Range

The entres range from approximately $10 to $20 USD, while appetizers and dim sum range from about 20 to 40 soles ($6 to $12 USD).

Location

Kion Peruvian Chinese is located just up the block from Cusco’s main square, above a jewelry shop.

• Adddress: Calle Triunfo N° 370, 2nd floor
• Phone: +51 84 431862

Cicciolina Tapas Bar & Restaurant

Cicciolina is a fine dining establishment that blends European and Peruvian flavors. Located near the Plaza de Armas, on the corner of Calle Palacio and Hatunrumiyoc, within view of the famous 12 angle Inca stone, this restaurant offers a sophisticated atmosphere. The menu offers a range of dishes, from seafood to pasta to grilled meats. Try the blue cheese and marinated fig pizza or the goat’s cheese and roasted tomato creation. The extensive wine selection, featuring South American wines for all budgets, complements the culinary offerings at Cicciolina.

This restaurant was for years a beloved fixture in the Cusco food scene, known for its warm atmosphere, Mediterranean influences, and exceptional cuisine. It has only gotten better with its recent move around the corner on Calle Palacio.

As you step into Cicciolina, the inviting and cozy ambiance of the colonial building will immediately put you at ease, with wide wooden plank floors and the walls adorned with black and white photos and original colonial-era frescos protected by panes of glass.

Cicciolina Restaurant Specializes in Great Tapas

Cicciolina prides itself on offering a fusion of flavors that combines local produce with international influences, resulting in a truly remarkable meal. The menu has a variety of options, ranging from traditional Peruvian entres to imported tapas that feel like they were brought straight from the Spanish Basque country.

For starters, don’t miss the causa with guinea pig, a Peruvian dish made with layers of mashed potatoes, avocado, and a filling of tender guinea pig meat. The BBQ scallops in a soy sauce with crispy garlic, ginger, and lime are a true delight for seafood lovers. The salads at Cicciolina are also worth trying, with their fresh and vibrant ingredients that showcase the best of local produce.

When it comes to main courses, Cicciolina offers a range of options that cater to different tastes. The Tagliolini with squid ink and prawns is a favorite among diners, with its rich flavors and perfectly cooked pasta. The beetroot ravioli filled with pesto and mushrooms is a vegetarian delight, while the osobucco in a beer sauce with pumpkin raviolis is a comforting and hearty choice. For those looking to try something unique, the tender fillet of alpaca with 4 pepper sauce is a must-try.

Formal Dining and a More Relaxed Bar

Cicciolina offers two distinct culinary experiences: the formal restaurant area and the more informal tapas bar area. In the dining room of the restaurant, you can expect impeccable and friendly service, adding to the overall enjoyment of your meal. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure that every guest feels welcome and well taken care of.

If you prefer a more casual setting, the bar at Cicciolina offers a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy your meal at a slower pace. While the service may be slightly slower around the bar, the food remains the same, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.

Price Range

The main dishes range from approximately $18 to $25 USD, while the tapas appetizers start at around $6 to $15 USD).

Location

The restaurant moved in December 2021 into the second floor of a beautifully restored colonial mansion on the corner of Calle Palacio and Hatunrumiyoc.

• Adddress: Calle Palacio N° 110, 2nd Floor, Cusco
• Phone: +51 84 255763

Cicciolina Cafe

Cicciolina Cafe, the sister restaurant of the well-known Cicciolina, is a cozy Italian restaurant located at the end of Calle Ruinas. The restaurant offers homemade pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas, as well as a selection of wines from around the world. The ambiance is rustic and intimate, with stone walls and a fireplace. Don’t miss the ravioli di zucca, margherita pizza, and tiramisu.

Informal Dining with Mediterranean Flavors

For more casual meals, head to Baco. Baco caters to high-end travelers, backpackers, and budget-conscious diners alike who are looking for a special night out. The menu focuses on Mediterranean flavors using local ingredients. Start with a mezza of mariscos, which includes delicious BBQ’d prawns, calamari, octopus, and scallops. The piqueos, or tapas, offer a delightful selection of mini ceramic pots filled with delights such as buttery prawns, spicy chorizo in tomato sauce, or charred veggies with chimichurri sauce. The thin, crusty gourmet pizzas are a highlight, and don’t miss the tender alpaca in a light wasabi butter or the perfectly cooked beef in mushroom sauce.

• Adddress: Calle Ruinas N° 465, Cusco
• Phone: +51 84 595942

MAP Café

MAP Café, located in the courtyard of the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, is another must-visit restaurant in Cusco. The restaurant boasts an impressive menu of contemporary Peruvian cuisine, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The ambiance is elegant and refined, with white tablecloths, high ceilings, housed in a sleek rectangular glass enclosure, providing a cozy environment on chilly Cusco nights. Don’t miss the potato gnocchi, trout, and quinoa risotto.

• Address: Nazarenas N° 231, Cusco, Peru
• Phone: +51 84 242476

L’ Atelier Café-Concept

L’ Atelier Café-Concept is a French-inspired cafe located high up in the San Blas neighborhood. When we say “high up” we mean on a narrow, steep cobblestone side street, whose name in Quechua translates to “where the foxes rest.” The restaurant offers a selection of coffee, herbal teas, masala chaï, as well as homemade cakes and tarts. The ambiance is relaxed with a great view of the city.

• Address: Atoqsayk’uchi N° 605 A, Cusco
• Phone: +51 84 248333

La Morena: A Modern Twist on Peruvian Classics

Located in the heart of Cusco with a stunning view of the Plaza de Armas, La Morena is modern, vibrant and delicious. The menu at La Morena features a delightful fusion of traditional Peruvian dishes with a contemporary twist. From appetizers like pastel de choclo, a corn cake topped with Andean cheese, and trout ceviche to alpaca risotto with mushroom and cheese, the dishes are bursting with flavor and made with care. Don’t miss the comforting pumpkin soup with a touch of sweetness from coconut milk.

• Address: Corner of the Plaza de Armas and Procuradores N° 320, Cusco
• Phone: +51 84 265409

Limbus Resto Bar: A Fusion of Flavors

Location, location, mesmerizing location. The Inca considered Cusco the navel of the cosmos, to wit they were something akin New Yorkers. Well, Limbus is kind of like a mini Windows on the World when it comes to the nighttime view it offers of the ancient Inca Capital City. You know you’ve arrived even before you finish the magical stroll through a magnificent. And then you catch sight of that view.

Cusco’s Limbus Resto Bar lives up to its namesake, serving up quintessential Peruvian bar food, generously plated. If you’re looking to celebrate your time in Cusco Limbus is a fun and amazingly situated place to do it. The menu includes ceviche, supercharged salchipapas, anticuchos and alpaca cheeseburgers. Don’t miss the lomo saltado, a classic Peruvian dish of stir-fried beef, onions, and tomatoes served with rice and fries. There are fancier entres, too. If you’re feeling beyond adventurous after a four-day hike on the Inca Trail, they even serve a Peruvian Tomahawk Steak. The extensive cocktail menu, featuring Pisco sours and other creative concoctions, makes Limbus Resto Bar a great spot for an evening of drinks and food.

• Address: Calle Pasñapakana N° 133, Cusco
• Phone: +51 953 755 922

Pachapapa: Authentic Andean Cuisine

For an authentic taste of Andean cuisine, Pachapapa is the perfect choice. Located in the San Blas neighborhood, this restaurant offers a cozy and rustic ambiance. The menu boasts traditional dishes made with local ingredients from the Sacred Valley. Start with a plate of rocoto relleno, a stuffed spicy pepper, or savor the flavors of alpaca stew. Pachapapa is known for its clay oven, where they bake delicious bread and roast meats. Don’t forget to try the traditional Peruvian dessert, picarones, a sweet treat made from pumpkin and sweet potato dough.

• Address: Carmen Bajo N° 120, Cusco
• Phone: +51 84 241318

Jack’s Café: Big American-style Breakfasts

If you’re craving a taste of home while in Cusco, Jack’s Café is the place to go. This cozy corner restaurant, located near the Plaza de Armas, offers a menu filled with comfort food favorites, most notably, its large American style breakfasts. Enjoy a good, hearty breakfast of pancakes or eggs benedict, or indulge in a classic burger for lunch. Jack’s also serves a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. Don’t miss their famous banana pancakes, a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

• Address: Choqechaka N° 509, Cusco
• Phone: +51 84 254606

Just to name a few…

Cusco offers a culinary journey like no other, with a diverse range of restaurants to suit every taste and budget. From traditional Peruvian cuisine to international flavors, the best restaurants in Cusco showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re looking for a fine cuisine, a casual meal, or a taste of home, Cusco has it all. So, immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary scene of Cusco and indulge in a culinary adventure that will leave a lasting impression.

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