This city isn’t just a gateway to Machu Picchu; it’s a culinary hotspot that deserves its own spotlight. With an array of spots ranging from cosy cafes to bustling markets, you’re in for a real treat. Let’s wander through the cobbled streets and discover where to eat in Cusco!
Where to Stay in Cusco
Personally, I’d recommend staying around the San Blas area or close to the main square (Plaza de Armas); check out some amazing accommodation options below:
Food Tours in Cusco
- Peruvian Cooking Class and Local Market in Cusco: Explore a local market in Cusco, then take a workshop on Peruvian cuisine during this 4-hour culinary experience. Learn about the functions of traditional Andean kitchens and local specialities from a professional Peruvian chef. Tastings, meal, and drinks are included.
- High-End Peruvian Cooking Class & San Pedro Market Guided Visit: Learn to prepare high-end Peruvian cuisine from market to table alongside a professional chef with this Peruvian cooking class. After shopping at a local market with a food-loving guide, head to a colonial-style home to prepare a 3-course lunch or dinner featuring classic items like ceviche, Pisco sours, and quinoa cooked to perfection. Polish off your meal with fresh fruits and local coffee.
- Curious Monkey Cusco- Eat the Streets, Walking Food Tour: Snack and sightsee on this small-group Cusco street food tour limited to 10 people or fewer. Try favourite local dishes like papas (potatoes), meats, and sweets, and even chat with the street food vendors to learn more about their goods. Between bites, learn about Cusco history as you walk around the city.
Traditional Peruvian Foods to Try in Cusco
Ceviche – You can’t talk about Peruvian cuisine without mentioning ceviche. This iconic dish is made from fresh fish marinated in tangy lime juice, spiced with chilli, and seasoned with onions and cilantro. It’s refreshing, flavourful, and a perfect testament to Peru’s mastery of simple ingredients. While more typical of coastal regions, Cusco’s versions, often using trout, are a delight.
Lomo Saltado – A stir-fry that perfectly represents the fusion of Peruvian and Asian (especially Chinese) cuisines. Tender strips of beef are cooked with onions, tomatoes, and aji amarillo (yellow chilli pepper), then mixed with soy sauce and served with rice and fries. It’s a hearty dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavour.
Aji de Gallina – A creamy, spicy chicken stew that’s as comforting as it sounds. The sauce, made from milk, bread, and yellow chilli peppers, creates a rich texture that coats shredded chicken, often served over potatoes or rice. It’s a dish that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for Cusco’s cooler evenings.
Cuy – No culinary exploration in Cusco would be complete without trying cuy, or guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish. It’s usually served whole, roasted or fried, and has a unique taste that’s been a staple of Peruvian diets for centuries. While it might be a leap for some travellers, it’s a genuine part of the local cuisine and worth trying for the adventurous eater.
Quinoa – A grain that’s been cultivated in the Andes for thousands of years and a staple of Peruvian cuisine. It’s incredibly versatile, appearing in soups, salads, and even as a side dish similar to rice. Its nutty flavour and high nutritional value make it a must-try, showcasing the ancient roots of Peruvian culinary traditions.
Chicha Morada – To wash down your meals, try chicha morada, a sweet beverage made from purple corn, fruits, and spices. This non-alcoholic drink is a favourite among locals and visitors alike, offering a refreshing break from the usual soft drinks and a taste of Peru’s pre-Columbian past.
Anticuchos – Skewers of marinated meat (traditionally beef heart), grilled to perfection, are a popular street food throughout Peru. They’re often served with boiled potatoes and aji sauce. This dish is a testament to the Peruvian ability to turn simple ingredients into something utterly delicious.
Pisco Sour – No culinary tour of Cusco, or Peru at large, would be complete without indulging in the iconic Pisco Sour. This beloved cocktail is a staple of Peruvian culture and a must-try for any visitor. Made from Pisco (a grape brandy that is a source of national pride), freshly squeezed lime juice, simple syrup, egg white, and a dash of Angostura bitters, the Pisco Sour is a masterclass in balance and flavour. The frothy top, created by the egg white, adds a smooth texture that complements the sharpness of the lime and the warmth of the Pisco beautifully.
Where to Eat in Cusco
After staying there for a month it’s safe to say we sampled our fair share of Cusco restaurants (some of which we sampled multiple times!). From more fine dining experiences to local food markets, here’s my list of top eats in Cusco:
Avocado: An Ode to the Creamy Green
First up, Avocado. Yes, that’s the name, and it’s exactly what you’re hoping for – a relaxed cafe dedicated to the mighty avocado. This little spot is a dream come true for anyone who believes that avocados make everything better. We actually ate here on three separate occasions so clearly it’s pretty great! Foods to try here are the avocado burger, any of the avocado toasts, and the avocado pasta (sounds odd, but it was pretty bloomin’ delightful). It’s the kind of place where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Plus, it’s pretty wallet-friendly, which is always a bonus.
Morena: Where Peruvian Flavours Shine
Morena Peruvian Kitchen is a real gem, while it’s not super expensive it’s certainly on the higher end of dining in Cusco. It’s the place that made me fall head over heels for Peruvian cuisine, and it’s definitely my favourite restaurant in all of Cusco. Here, you can dive into a world of flavours with dishes that are a vibrant celebration of Peru’s culinary heritage. The alpaca steak? Divine. Lomo Saltado? Amazing. It’s bustling and vibrant and we visited during lunchtime without a booking as we wanted to get the lovely views over Plaza de Armas during the day. I’d recommend getting there for opening time to make sure you get a table as it fills up fast!
ChocoMuseo: Where Chocolate Dreams Come True
Tucked away in the bustling streets of Cusco, there’s a little slice of heaven for chocolate lovers – the ChocoMuseo. It’s more than just a museum; it’s an experience that wraps you up in the sweet, rich world of chocolate in a way you’ve probably never known before.
What really steals the show at the ChocoMuseo is their chocolate-making workshops. It’s not every day you get to play chocolatier, but here, they make that dream a reality. The workshop is a hands-on adventure where you get down and dirty with cocoa beans – roasting, grinding, and finally, turning them into your own chocolate masterpiece. It’s a bit like being a kid again, except this time you’re allowed to play with your food, and the results are seriously tasty.
Pachapapa: A Taste of Tradition
Next, let’s talk about Pachapapa. Nestled in the charming San Blas area, it’s where you go to try something uniquely Andean – like roasted guinea pig. I know, it might sound a bit out there, but it’s a traditional dish that’s been enjoyed for centuries. Dining here feels like a warm hug, with its rustic vibe and hearty, comforting dishes. It’s a must-try for the adventurous eater.
As you can see in the pictures below, yes, we did try the guinea pig! The dish takes an hour to prepare and comes to you presented on the left, but don’t worry, this is only for pictures before it’s taken away and carved for you, as you can see on the right. My honest review of guinea pig? It tasted a little bit like how they smell combined with chicken thigh. Definitely not my favourite meat, but not the worst I’ve tried either.
Qura: Bowlfuls of Joy
Poke bowls have taken the world by storm, and Qura does it right. Think of a bowl packed with all the good stuff – fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavours. It’s the perfect pick-me-up after a day of exploring, especially if you’re looking for something on the lighter side. The laid-back atmosphere makes it a great spot to chill and refuel.
Green Point: Veggie Paradise
For all the plant-based pals out there, Green Point is where you’ll want to be. Tucked away in San Blas, this spot proves that veggie food doesn’t have to be boring. The menu is a creative take on traditional dishes, all made with love and the freshest of ingredients. It’s cosy, it’s welcoming, and it just feels good to be there.
Catfetin: For the Love of Cats and Coffee
Catfetin Cat Café is exactly what it sounds like – a café full of cats! Whether you’re a cat person or just in need of a dose of cuteness, this place has got you covered. Sip on a coffee while making some furry friends; it’s a surprisingly soothing way to spend an afternoon. The vibe is super relaxed, and the cats are the cherry on top.
Pizzeria Trattoria Casa Grande: Your Italian Haven in Cusco
Nestling in the heart of Cusco, Pizzeria Trattoria Casa Grande feels like stumbling into a little piece of Italy right when you least expect it. The moment you step in, the aroma of pizzas fresh from the wood-fired oven hits you – it’s irresistible. Each pizza, with its perfectly charred crust and toppings that sing with flavour, is a slice of heaven. The Margherita is a classic, but if you’re feeling adventurous, their speciality pizzas with unique toppings are nothing short of delicious. Casa Grande is more than just a meal; it’s where every bite tells a story of tradition, passion, and the simple joy of sharing good food with good company.
L’Atelier Café Concept: Breakfast Bliss in San Blas
And just when you thought Cusco couldn’t get any more charming, let me introduce you to L’Atelier Café Concept. Nestled in the heart of San Blas, this tiny café is the epitome of a hidden gem. What sets it apart? The amazing balcony seating that offers a tranquil escape from the bustling streets below, providing the perfect backdrop for a leisurely breakfast.
L’Atelier Café Concept takes something as simple as avocado toast and elevates it to something sublime. Imagine biting into perfectly toasted bread, topped with creamy, ripe avocado, perhaps with a sprinkle of sea salt and a dash of lime – it’s a taste sensation that will start your day off on the right foot. The café’s intimate setting makes it an ideal spot for those moments when you want to take a breath, sip on a well-crafted coffee, and just soak in the vibes of Cusco.
San Pedro Market: The Heartbeat of Cusco
Lastly, we can’t talk about eating in Cusco without mentioning the San Pedro Market. It’s a whirlwind of colours, smells, and tastes. Grab a “mixto” from one of the food stalls, and you’ll get to sample a bit of everything. Follow it up with a fresh juice, and you’ve got yourself a feast. It’s an experience that’s as much about the food as it is about soaking up the local atmosphere.
So there you have it – a peek into Cusco’s culinary delights. From avocado feasts to veggie paradises and traditional treats, this city has a way of making every meal memorable. Whether you’re here for the sights or on a quest to find the best bite, Cusco’s got you covered. Happy eating!
