10 Must-Visit Restaurants in Cusco - Peru

This isn't your typical "Best Of" list—rather than just listing popular eateries, we've researched each restaurant, engaged with their chefs, and delved into their culinary philosophy. This list explores the gastronomic delights of Cusco, highlighting spots that not only offer scrumptious food but also unique experiences that go beyond the plate.

Chicha by Gaston Acurio

Chicha, situated just a block from Plaza de Armas on the west side of Plaza Regocijo, is more than just a restaurant—it's a gastronomic tour de force in Cusco. Helmed by the internationally renowned Chef Gaston Acurio, whose flagship Lima restaurant Astrid y Gaston sits on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, Chicha offers an affordable yet high-quality taste of Peru's culinary diversity. The restaurant boasts a variety of menus including a regional menu, a set chef’s menu, and a tasting menu that features three appetizers, three entrées, and two desserts. If you're dining on a chilly night at 11,000 feet, the signature Chicha soup made from four kinds of beans and topped with pork rib cracklings comes highly recommended.

The core of Chicha's offerings is a sophisticated blend of traditional Peruvian dishes, from causa and ceviche to adobo and cuy—otherwise known as guinea pig. One standout dish is the grilled octopus with pickled radish and micro herbs. For those with a hearty appetite, the pork chicharron with native potato fries and herby huacatay sauce is a must-try. Even the pizzas feature a uniquely Peruvian twist, topped with alpaca meat. While the restaurant primarily focuses on meat-centered dishes, vegetarians have a few options, including a sweet potato tortelli that balances savory and sweet with its sage butter. Reservations are recommended to fully enjoy this iconic culinary experience in Cusco.

Morena

Morena, located on the north side of the Plaza de Armas, is the epitome of Peruvian culinary artistry. Reservations are highly recommended at this establishment, renowned for its array of traditional Peruvian dishes. Guests are treated to a trout appetizer, accentuated by chalaquita—a counterpart to Mexico's pico de gallo. The menu generously features huancaina, a creamy, mild yellow chili pepper sauce, and uchucuta, a spicier counterpart made with hot rocoto peppers.

For diners looking for variety, the restaurant offers an impressive selection of appetizers, each one a classic staple of Peruvian cuisine. With clear markers for vegetarian options extending from soups to a delightful quinoa risotto, Morena makes inclusivity a priority. The ambiance is inviting, characterized by bright interiors and comfortable wicker chairs, perfect for unwinding after a long day. Round off the experience with their delectable desserts, cocktails, or tea.

Cicciolina

Situated upstairs in one of Cusco's most historic buildings is Cicciolina, a restaurant that has garnered attention from The New York Times for its excellent culinary offerings. Reservations are recommended to enjoy the eclectic mix of Peruvian and Mediterranean flavors, punctuated with global influences like wasabi and mango chutney. Their beet ravioli and chicken in wild mushroom sauce are crowd favorites. Wine connoisseurs will be pleased with Cicciolina's extensive selection, sourced from South America, Europe, and Australia. For those less versed in wine, the well-trained staff offer impeccable guidance. The restaurant offers a luxurious yet cozy atmosphere, including a bar with a panoramic view of the Plaza de Armas.

Calle del Medio

Tucked away on the west side of the Plaza de Armas, Calle del Medio provides an unrivaled view of the Cusco Cathedral, particularly enchanting in the evening light. Inside, the restaurant flaunts an incredible bar, making it an ideal location for enjoying a sundowner. The menu is a harmonious blend of classic Peruvian and international dishes. Highlights include the pumpkin risotto and the 24-hour lamb shank.

Calle del Medio also offers the unique advantage of being a comfortable place to catch a sports game, a rarity in Cusco. With excellent service and a relaxed environment, it stands as a go-to for both NFL and NBA playoffs. Steer clear of the sports bar La Fábrica, notorious for its hectic atmosphere and abysmal service, and choose Calle del Medio for a far more satisfying experience.

Inka Grill

Inka Grill, established in 1998, was a trailblazer in Cusco's culinary scene and holds an esteemed location in the iconic Plaza de Armas. This flagship restaurant offers an eclectic menu that fuses international and Peruvian flavors, featuring standout dishes like comforting bird soup and innovative quinoa risotto. With options ranging from pastas, pizzas, and sandwiches to vegetarian choices and decadent desserts, the menu creatively reinterprets global classics. Over fifteen years of gastronomic excellence is backed by a dedicated team, all wrapped up in a welcoming atmosphere. Inka Grill remains an enduring dining classic in the heart of Cusco, making it an unmissable culinary destination.

Carpe Diem

When the pizza craving strikes in Cusco, head to Carpe Diem. The interior is adorned with classic Italian pizzeria memorabilia, and the menu features an extensive list of pizzas with perfectly fermented dough. Don't miss their Taormina pizza or their house-made pasta offerings like fettuccini and ravioli. Round off your meal with their tableside tiramisu, prepared with fresh espresso.

Incanto

Incanto, once the palace of Inca Túpac Yupanqui, now serves as a cozy spot combining Italian and Peruvian cuisines. Located across the main Cusco plaza on Santa Catalina Angosta Street, it's known for its wood-fired oven, homemade pasta, pizzas, and breads. The fusion of Italy's squid-ink tagliatelles with Cusco's local ingredients showcases a unique gastronomic blend. The ossobucco with buttery mash potatoes, paired with a selection of wines, offers an unforgettable dining experience in Cusco.

Jacob’s

Located in the San Blas neighborhood, Jacob's offers a diverse selection of craft beers. Their tasting menu allows you to experience how altitude can affect beer flavor. The establishment is a two-story affair with live music most nights and also houses Green Point, a renowned vegan restaurant with a bakery.

Sakana Cevisushi

If you're looking for gourmet ceviche or interested in Nikkei cuisine, Sakana is your spot. They offer both a classic ceviche and a unique "Ceviche Andino" made with local trout. For non-fish eaters, they provide causa options as well. Open only for lunch, Sakana is a top pick for quality ceviche in Cusco.

Cusqueñísima

Best Local Picantería: Avenida Alfredo Yepez Miranda, Magisterio
For an authentic Cusqueñian meal, Cusqueñísima in the Magisterio neighborhood is the place to be. It's a picantería offering traditional fare based on age-old recipes. Most dishes are spicy, and their soups are the show-stealers. For a sweet and savory combo, start with the chupe de pera, followed by the spicy rocoto setas.

Conclusion

Exploring Cusco's culinary scene is much like traversing its cobblestone streets—full of unexpected twists, steeped in tradition, and unforgettable. From high-end establishments helmed by world-renowned chefs to cozy corners offering a blend of Peruvian and international fare, Cusco provides a gastronomic journey that's as enriching as its cultural and historical landscapes. With each restaurant offering something unique—from indigenous flavors to innovative fusions—dining in Cusco is not just a meal but an experience worth savoring. Whether you're in town for a quick visit or planning an extended stay, these restaurants serve as culinary landmarks that help you navigate the rich tapestry of Cusco's food culture.