As many of you already know, I love food. I’ve enjoyed meals at several of the world’s most renowned restaurants, such as Mirazur, Osteria Francescana, L’Enclume, and Le Manoir. My main reason for traveling to Peru was the food: I’ve long had a deep appreciation for Peruvian cuisine and wanted to experience it firsthand. It didn’t disappoint. Thanks to the guidance of a local Travel Agency Peru, I was able to discover some of the best restaurants in Cusco hidden gems and iconic spots alike. In fact, it far exceeded my already high expectations. Therefore, my intention was to tell you about the highlights I visited restaurants in Cusco and explain why you should do the same.
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1. Morena Peruvian Kitchen
This was my first dinner in Cusco, and it set the bar incredibly high. Even without a reservation, I was lucky enough to get a spot at the bar. The atmosphere is elegant yet relaxed, with warm lighting and locally inspired decor. The staff was warm and welcoming, eager to explain each dish in detail.
Start with a passionfruit pisco sour it’s bold, tropical, and perfectly balanced. For food, I went with a trio of starters: Guacamole del Huerto, Croquetas de Choclo con Queso, and the unforgettable Trout Ceviche. Each dish brought a burst of fresh flavor and thoughtful presentation. If you’re into food that feels both comforting and elevated, Morena is a must. Prices are mid to high range, and worth every sol.
2. Chicha por Gaston Acurio
Run by Peru’s most famous chef, Gaston Acurio, Chicha is a celebration of local ingredients and culinary traditions. It’s upscale without being pretentious. The Lucuma Tortellini was a surprising highlight sweet and savory with a silky texture.
Pair it with a traditional Inca Kola and enjoy the flavors of Peru in a beautifully curated setting. The wine list is also impressive, showcasing South American varietals. Book ahead, especially in high season. It’s ideal for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
3. Pachapapa
Nestled in the charming San Blas neighborhood, Pachapapa offers a rustic courtyard, wood-fired oven, and a menu full of regional classics. I went for the Chicken Causa and some piping-hot empanadas, finishing with a quinoa cookie that I still think about.
They also serve traditional dishes like alpaca steak and cuy (guinea pig), for those feeling adventurous. It’s a great lunch spot if you’re wandering around San Blas. You’ll get traditional flavors in a relaxed and scenic atmosphere.
4. Museo del Pisco
This is more than a restaurant it’s a pisco lover’s paradise. Their cocktail menu is full of inventive twists on classics, and the food doesn’t fall behind. I ordered ceviche (obviously), and Tequeños with guacamole, both of which hit the spot.
Try their tasting flight of piscos to appreciate the subtle differences between regional varieties. It’s perfect for pre-dinner drinks, date night, or a casual night out with friends. The vibe is lively, with music in the evenings and knowledgeable bartenders.
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5. Qura
This spot blew me away on my first day in the city. Known for their healthy, fresh menu, Qura is a hidden gem near the Plaza de Armas. I had roasted tomato and avocado toast with poached eggs, a mango smoothie, and a coca tea that helped ease the altitude symptoms.
They also offer gluten-free and vegetarian options, with colorful dishes served on handmade ceramic plates. Light, nourishing, and stylish Qura is ideal for brunch or a late breakfast. Great for remote workers too, thanks to its calm atmosphere and WiFi.
6. Aulita
Aulita is a tiny, artsy café just steps from the Aranwa Boutique Hotel. My friend Pia and I went here for a slow breakfast before our Sacred Valley tour. Service was slow, but the food made up for it: scrambled eggs with Andean cheese, fresh juice, and hearty bread.
The decor is boho and cozy, with plants, mismatched chairs, and art on the walls. It’s also a great spot for locally roasted coffee and homemade pastries. Go with time to spare and soak in the calm. Many locals stop by for takeout coffee.
7. L’Atelier Café Concept
Hidden up a hill in San Blas, L’Atelier is a tiny café attached to a concept store. I came for a slice of carrot cake and ended up staying for the peaceful vibe and scenic view. Add a cup of coca tea, and you’ve got the perfect break from sightseeing.
Their small but refined menu includes veggie quiches, herbal infusions, and homemade granola. The attached boutique sells handmade jewelry, textiles, and ceramics perfect for picking up a meaningful souvenir.
8. Cercanía Pan y Café
Located on a quiet street behind the main square, Cercanía is a gem for anyone who loves baked goods. Their blueberry muffins are packed with fruit, and their breads are perfect for a picnic or early snack.
They also offer sandwiches, strong coffee, and vegan sweets in a quiet, minimalist space. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite or looking for a place to journal your travels, Cercanía feels like a warm hug in café form.
9. Green Point
If you’re looking for a plant-based culinary experience, Green Point is a must-visit. Located in the San Blas neighborhood, this vegan restaurant offers beautifully plated dishes with bold flavors. The sushi rolls with quinoa and avocado are standout favorites, and their vegan ceviche made from mushrooms and coconut is a refreshing twist on the classic.
Their garden patio is perfect for a peaceful lunch, and their desserts (especially the raw chocolate cake) are guilt-free indulgences. Whether you’re vegan or just curious, Green Point impresses with creativity and care.
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10. Cicciolina
For a touch of European flair with Andean ingredients, Cicciolina offers one of the most romantic dining experiences in Cusco. Located just a block from the Plaza de Armas, this wine bar and restaurant serves tapas, handmade pastas, and expertly crafted cocktails in a cozy colonial setting.
Try the alpaca carpaccio or the goat cheese-stuffed ravioli, and pair it with a glass from their extensive wine list. The ambiance here makes it perfect for date night or a special evening out.
11. MAP Café
Hidden inside the courtyard of the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, MAP Café is a fine-dining experience that combines art and cuisine. The glass-enclosed setting offers a quiet, almost ethereal atmosphere, and the menu reflects a contemporary take on traditional Peruvian dishes.
Highlights include the confit of duck with Andean tubers and the Amazonian paiche fish. The tasting menu is ideal for those wanting a deep dive into haute Peruvian gastronomy.
12. Le Soleil
Le Soleil brings French cuisine to Cusco with a Peruvian twist. If you’re craving elegance and indulgence, this intimate restaurant offers classics like duck à l’orange, beef bourguignon, and crème brûlée, all made with local ingredients.
Perfect for a long, luxurious dinner, Le Soleil is also known for its excellent service and thoughtfully paired wine list. It’s a hidden gem for lovers of French gastronomy.
13. La Bodega 138
Sometimes you just want comfort food, and La Bodega 138 delivers just that with a Peruvian touch. This popular pizzeria serves wood-fired pizzas, fresh pastas, and hearty salads. The pizza with Andean cheese and rocoto chili is a local favorite.
It’s casual, friendly, and perfect for families or anyone craving a cozy meal in a relaxed setting. It also has a good selection of local craft beers.
14. Yaku
Yaku is an elegant rooftop restaurant and bar located above the luxurious El Mercado Hotel. With panoramic views of Cusco, Yaku specializes in modern Peruvian cuisine with international influence. The grilled octopus and the quinoa risotto are both excellent, and the cocktail menu is creative and seasonally inspired.
As the sun sets over the city, there are few better places to unwind with a pisco cocktail in hand.
Bonus: Where to try street food in Cusco
While restaurants shine in Cusco, the street food scene also deserves attention. Head to the San Pedro Market, where you’ll find everything from fresh fruit juices and cheese-stuffed tamales to anticuchos (grilled beef heart skewers) served straight off the grill.
Try a warm api (purple corn drink) with a picarón (sweet potato doughnut) in the evening, and you’ll understand why locals love these humble stalls. Street food in Cusco is safe, tasty, and gives you a direct window into everyday life.
What to eat in Cusco: Iconic dishes
If it’s your first time in Cusco, these are a few dishes you shouldn’t miss:
- Cuy chactado: Crispy fried guinea pig, a traditional Andean delicacy.
- Adobo cusqueño: A rich pork stew marinated in chicha de jora.
- Olluquito con charqui: Native root stew with dried alpaca meat.
- Chiri uchu: A ceremonial dish often eaten cold, especially during Corpus Christi.
- Quinotto: Quinoa risotto, a modern fusion favorite.
Many of the restaurants listed above offer their own unique spin on these classics.
Where to find local ingredients
If you’re inspired to bring the flavors of Cusco back home, head to local markets like San Pedro or Wanchaq Market. These bustling hubs are filled with regional ingredients: vibrant potatoes, quinoa varieties, exotic fruits like lucuma and chirimoya, and aromatic spices like huacatay. Some stalls also sell packaged products perfect for travel think Andean salts, dried chili peppers, and coffee from the jungle.
Talking to vendors is also a great way to learn about how locals use these ingredients, and many are happy to offer cooking tips or preparation ideas. It’s a flavorful way to extend your culinary adventure beyond the plate.
When is the best time to eat out in the restaurants in Cusco?
While Cusco has restaurants open year-round, your overall experience can change depending on the season. The dry season (May to September) is perfect for enjoying terraces and rooftops like Yaku or L’Atelier. Evenings can get chilly, so always carry a warm layer if you’re dining outdoors.
During festive seasons like Inti Raymi (June) or Semana Santa, many restaurants offer special menus inspired by traditional dishes. Reservations are strongly recommended during these times, as Cusco fills with both local and international travelers.
A final bite of Cusco
Cusco offers some of the best food in the world, and this list of the best restaurants in Cusco truly provides you with the ultimate Peruvian culinary experience! During my stay in Cusco, I didn’t experience a single unhealthy food, and there’s something for everyone, no matter your tastes or preferences.
