Quick answer: Eat ceviche at lunchtime (cevicherías close in the afternoon), try lomo saltado, causa and anticuchos, explore Nikkei (Japanese-Peruvian) and Chifa (Chinese-Peruvian) food and drink a pisco sour. Book famous tasting menus weeks or months ahead.
Must-try dishes
| Dish | What it is |
|---|---|
| Ceviche | Raw fish cured in lime with chilli and red onion |
| Tiradito | Sashimi-style fish with a spicy sauce |
| Lomo saltado | Beef stir-fry with tomatoes, onions and chips |
| Causa | Layered potato terrine with filling |
| Ají de gallina | Creamy chilli chicken |
| Anticuchos | Grilled beef-heart skewers |
| Picarones | Sweet potato and squash doughnuts |
Where to eat
- Cevicherías in Miraflores and Surquillo for lunch.
- Surquillo Market for fruit and simple stalls.
- Barrio Chino for Chifa.
- Tasting menus in Miraflores and Barranco: some rank among the world’s best restaurants.
Drinks
- Pisco sour and chilcano.
- Chicha morada, a purple-corn soft drink.
- Inca Kola, the local soda.
Tips
- Avoid tap water and ice in very simple places if you have a sensitive stomach.
- A food tour is a great first-day introduction.
FAQ: Lima food
Why is ceviche eaten at lunch?
Tradition: fish is freshest in the morning, so many cevicherías close by late afternoon.
Do I need reservations in Lima?
For famous restaurants, yes, often weeks ahead.
More Lima guides
- Lima travel guide
- 20 best things to do in Lima
- Lima itinerary: 1, 2 or 3 days
- Where to stay in Lima
- Best time to visit Lima
- Lima airport to Miraflores
- Lima to Cusco
- Paracas and Huacachina day trip
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