Looking for the best restaurants in Cusco? Look no further than the vibrant culinary scene that this ancient city has to offer. Cusco is home to some of the finest restaurants in Peru, with a diverse array of cuisines that cater to all tastes and preferences. From traditional Peruvian dishes to international fusion cuisine, Cusco has it all. The restaurants in Cusco are known for their exquisite flavors, impeccable service, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. So, whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two, a family-friendly restaurant, or a fun night out with friends, Cusco’s best restaurants have got you covered. And, of course, no visit to Cusco would be complete without a visit to Chicha by Gaston Acurio – one of the city’s most renowned culinary hotspots.
1. Organika Restaurant
One of the ways in which altitude sickness in Peru can affect it is by making your digestion slower and heavier. Considering that Cusco is 3,400 meters above sea level, the healthier and lighter you eat, the better, especially the first few days. For this reason, we cannot think of a better place to eat in Cusco than Organika, a small restaurant specializing in organic and local food, with a wide range of vegetarian dishes as well. It is about a 5-minute walk from the Plaza de Armas, and its interior terrace is luxurious.
Regarding the menu, they have veggie pizzas, soups, chicken, trout, pasta, salads and even a lot of delicious desserts. At the time of publishing this article, Organika is also the fifth most valued restaurant in Cusco on TripAdvisor.
2. Pachapapa Restaurant
Pachapapa, which means “father sky” in Quechua (the “made earth” would be Pachamama) is one of the best restaurants in Cusco. In this restaurant you will be able to choose between the most representative typical Peruvian dishes such as ají de gallina, causa, ceviche and chicharrones. In addition, it is one of the few restaurants in the area that has a clay oven, so it also offers delicious roast meats, including guinea pig, and even pizzas.
Pachapapa is located in an old house, next to the square in the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas. It is a cozy and traditional place with a charming patio. It opens every day, from 12 to 22 hours.
3. Ñaupa Restaurant
This is a spectacular restaurant. Its menu is based on typical Peruvian dishes but with an international touch. It won us over with its soups (especially the quinoa one) and its stone-cooked meats, which are still cooked on the stone. Both options are ideal against the evil of Cusco.
4. Chicha Restaurant by Gaston Acurio
In Plaza Regocijo, one of the most beautiful in Cusco, is located one of the most famous restaurants in the city, Chicha. The extremely famous chef Gaston Acurio has many establishments, both in Peru and abroad. All the restaurants serve signature cuisine of the highest quality, using local and seasonal products.
The restaurant Chicha in Cusco is specialized in Andean cuisine, so important in the culture and gastronomy of the whole country.
5. Cicciolina Restaurant
Cicciolina restaurant is located in a beautiful colonial-style mansion, very close to the Archbishop’s Palace and the Twelve Angles Stone and just a 3-minute walk from the Plaza de Armas. This restaurant has Mediterranean style. Its main stars are the tapas and homemade pasta, always with a little Peruvian touch, of course. It is a little more expensive than other restaurants where to eat in Cusco.