Peru · tool
Lima food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Lima.
What to eat in Lima
6 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Ceviche
Fresh raw fish cured in lime juice, spiced with chili peppers and onions. It's Peru's national dish, a vibrant explosion of citrus and spice that defines coastal Peruvian cuisine.
Lomo Saltado
A hearty stir-fry of beef strips, onions, tomatoes, and french fries, often served with rice. This classic Chifa (Chinese-Peruvian fusion) dish balances savory, sweet, and tangy flavors.
Aji de Gallina
Shredded chicken in a creamy, slightly spicy sauce made from aji amarillo peppers, walnuts, and bread. It's a comforting and flavorful staple, often served with rice and potatoes.
Anticuchos
Skewers of marinated beef heart, grilled over charcoal. These are a popular street food, offering a rich, smoky, and slightly chewy texture that is deeply satisfying.
Causa Rellena
A layered dish of mashed yellow potatoes seasoned with lime and aji amarillo, typically filled with chicken salad, tuna, or avocado. It's a visually appealing and refreshing appetizer.
Rocoto Relleno
Spicy rocoto peppers stuffed with seasoned ground meat, olives, hard-boiled eggs, and cheese, then baked. It's a flavorful and hearty dish originating from Arequipa but popular in Lima.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Upscale coastal district with a mix of modern restaurants, traditional eateries, and lively public spaces.
Bohemian and artistic, known for its colorful streets, independent galleries, and innovative culinary scene.
Elegant business and residential district with some of Lima's most renowned fine dining establishments and upscale bars.
A more local feel, with vibrant markets offering fresh produce and a growing number of casual eateries and 'huariques' (hole-in-the-wall eateries).
Dietary notes
Peruvian cuisine is heavily meat and seafood-centric. While ceviche is fish-based, many other iconic dishes feature beef, chicken, or pork. Vegetarian and vegan options are becoming more common in tourist areas, but can be limited in traditional eateries; look for dishes featuring quinoa, corn, and potatoes.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is usually around 10% for good service in restaurants, often already included as 'servicio' on the bill.
- •Carry some cash, especially for street food and smaller markets, though cards are widely accepted in most restaurants and larger establishments.
- •Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends.
- •It's polite to try some of the local dishes, even if they seem unfamiliar. Embrace the culinary adventure!
- •Meals are typically enjoyed at a moderate pace; lunch is usually the main meal of the day, often eaten between 1 PM and 3 PM.
Plan the rest of your Lima trip
Food guides elsewhere