Cusco is famed for its rich Andean heritage, Incan history and luxurious hotels, but when it comes to cuisine and recommendable restaurants has always been seen as something of a poor relation to Lima, Peru and South America’s gastronomic capital. Indeed historically it may not quite have been culinarily comparable, but the tide is turning, and this is no longer the case.
In recent years the city has seen a great lot of attention from Peru’s top chefs thanks in no small part to a trending appreciation of the multitude of exotic Andean herbs and corn and potato varieties found in the region. As a result, a host of new world-class Cusco restaurants have been opened and the city has firmly established itself a foodie destination in its own right. Here are 6 of the best Cusco restaurants in Cusco, Peru, tried and tested by our destination experts and sure to satisfy the most educated of palates.
Morena, Peruvian Restaurant In Cusco Main Square
Located near the Plaza de Armas and Cusco Cathedral, Morena Peruvian Kitchen takes on a contemporary twist with its decor and menu. The interior décor is stunning and quirky – a good sign of things to come. If you can find a Peruvian to take you to this place even better. The menu features a number of plates that are basically a modern take on a traditional dish. Having someone to explain what everything is will come in handy when it comes to ordering. Try the anticuchos if you’re feeling adventurous or the aeropuerto if you’re hungry.
Organika Restaurant
The motto in Organika is quality over quantity. This means that this is not the kind of place you should go if you are starving hungry. The food they serve is delicious, locally sourced and delightfully presented but the portions are not huge. Nevertheless, what you do get is worth every penny. The theme for the food here is healthy, Peruvian-Western fusion. The dishes are creative and made with love and they are very vegetarian-friendly.
Green Point is the only place you need to know if you’re on the hunt for some quality vegetarian or vegan food. For 15 soles (US$4.60) you can get the lunch deal (menu del día), which consists of a salad bar, starter, main, dessert and drink. Not bad for less than $5. If the lunch deal doesn’t appeal to you then there is a full menu for you to peruse and choose from.
Jack’s Cafe is everyone’s favorite go-to spot for breakfast and brunch. Huevos Rancheros, Bacon & Egg Sandwich, Caramelized Banana Pancakes, Strawberry & Banana French Toast are just a few of the most popular all-day breakfast dishes. There are also plenty of hearty sandwiches, salads, burgers, coffee and fresh juices.
Inka Grill
Everyone needs a bit of Peruvian comfort food every now and again and Inka Grill does this to perfection. On their menu, you will find International pasta dishes, pizzas, vegetarian options, desserts and traditional Peruvian cuisine. Here, you can try Alpaca steak, Quinoa Soup, Cuy (Peruvian Guinea Pig), among others.
Peruvians love their sandwiches and they know how to do them well. Pankracio serves up delicious sandwiches of monstrous proportions. The menu is not extensive but they have everything you could want and more. Choose from lomo saltado (stir-fried beef), chicharron (pork belly), chicken, chorizo or vegetarian and get ready for a taste sensation. You certainly won’t be hungry after a meal here.
At the end of a long day’s sightseeing in Cusco, what better way to rest your weary limbs and replenish your energy levels and spirits than with a meal at one of the best restaurants in Cusco? If you have any questions about Cusqueñan cuisine or would like more recommendations for places to eat in the city then contact us today.
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