Alright, let’s talk about food in Cusco. Peru is famous for its food, and Cusco, sitting high up at around 11,152 feet (3,399 meters), has its own special taste. While you can find dishes from all over Peru and even international food, Cusco adds its own twist. If you want to taste the really traditional stuff, try to be here during big local parties like Corpus Christi or the Cusco Anniversary in June. Oh, and you’ve probably heard about cuy (guinea pig). It’s a classic here. People don’t eat it every day, but it’s a famous local dish. You gotta try it if you’re feeling adventurous!
Here’s a list of places to eat, picked based on what people say and how much they cost.
Where to Grab a Bite in Cusco
Finding good food is part of the travel fun. Cusco has options for different budgets.
Affordable Eats
If you’re watching your money, these spots are great. You can eat well without spending a lot.
San Pedro Market: This is the city’s most famous market. They have food stalls where you can get classic Peruvian dishes. Think like, Caldo de Gallina (chicken soup), Lomo Saltado (stir-fried beef), or Bisteck Montado (steak with an egg). It’s really affordable. A real lifesaver if you’re traveling on a budget. “Que rico!” (How delicious!) is something you might say here.
El Mordisco: This place serves typical Peruvian food. Simple, classic dishes. You can find it at C. San Juan de Dios 298, Cusco 08002.
Nicer Places to Eat
These restaurants cost a bit more, but they offer a different kind of food experience.
Morena Peruvian Kitchen: They do Peruvian food but with a modern touch, mixing tastes from the coast, the Amazon jungle, and the Andes mountains. It’s known for looking very nice inside. Find it at C. Procuradores 320 Plaza De Armas, Cuzco 08002.
Kusykay Peruvian Craft Food: This spot focuses on Peruvian dishes but gets creative with them. They take traditional recipes and give them a modern twist. You can find them near the Main Square at Calle Triunfo 338A, Cuzco 08002.
Cicciolina: This place mixes Italian and Peruvian food. They have dishes inspired by the Mediterranean but use local flavors too. It’s located upstairs at Calle Palacio 110 2do Piso, Cuzco 08002.
Pachapapa: This is where you go for traditional Cusco food. They have classic local dishes like roasted guinea pig and stuffed peppers. It’s in the San Blas area at Carmen Bajo 120 San Blas, Cuzco 08003. It’s got a nice courtyard vibe.
Yaku Restaurant: They serve modern Peruvian food. They take classic dishes and make them new using fresh stuff from the area. Find them at Calle San Juan de Dios 214 Plaza Regocijo, Cuzco 08002.
Options for Vegans & Vegetarians
If you don’t eat meat, or just want something fresh, these places are good bets.
Organika: This restaurant gets ingredients from their own garden in the Sacred Valley. They serve organic food from the farm to your table. It’s a cozy place with creative-looking food. They have fresh things like salads, pasta, and Peruvian-style dishes without meat. It’s in the historic center at Calle Ataud N° 154 Centro Historico, Cuzco. It’s cool that they use their own garden stuff.
Green Point: This place is awesome for vegans and vegetarians. They come up with new ways to make traditional dishes without animal products. Their vegan ceviche and desserts are popular. They also have daily menus that don’t cost too much. It’s got a relaxed feel. Find them at Carmen Bajo 235, Cusco 08003.
A Personal Suggestion
Someone recommended Don Pancho if you really want authentic Peruvian food, especially the criolla dishes, which are sort of like comfort food or everyday favorites in Peru. They said the service is really good, and the food is always tasty. A nice bonus is that it has a balcony looking over the Main Square, so you can check out the view while you eat. It’s located at Calle Portal de Panes 139, Plaza de Armas, Cusco. Trying the criolla stuff there sounds like a solid plan for a real taste of Peru.