Peruvian gastronomy: from street food, huariques, to 5-fork restaurants

There is something that makes all Peruvians proud, it is the gastronomy of our country, which has been earning a place among the best gastronomies in the world for almost 2 decades when the gastronomic boom in Peru began, thanks to the work and dissemination of renowned chefs such as Rafael piqueras and Gastón Acurio.

Causa a la limeña. Photo by Alvaro Israel Francia Pino on istockphoto.

The development and positioning of Peruvian gastronomy is mainly due to the work of farmers and the privileged territory that allows us to grow a great diversity of products under different climatic conditions, nature, soils, etc. In addition to thousands of years of cultural influence, ancestral agricultural techniques, legacy of traditional recipes, creativity, development of a demanding palate and other factors.

One of the most widely-consumed foodstuffs in Peruvian cuisine. Photo by BDphoto on istockphoto.

Among the most outstanding dishes of Peruvian gastronomy are ceviche, lomo saltado, ají de gallina, chicken casusa, pachamanca, rice with duck, among others. However, Peru has more than 500 typical dishes, which makes it possible to eat 1 different dish during the year.

Typical dishes of  Peru. Photo by Tomas Llamas Quintas on istockphoto.

No matter where you eat, you will always find a variety of dishes and unique flavors that will delight the palate of most. On the streets of Lima we find men and women selling their best dishes, between traditional and modern fusions, at super affordable prices. We also have the typical huariques, which are small and little-known places, but very popular among people who visit them regularly, since they are characterized by specializing in certain traditional dishes. The gastronomic offer in Peru is very varied, which is why we find restaurants of various categories, specialties, budgets, and even themes.

Anticuchos and pisco sour in a traditional restaurant. Photo by Lorenasam on istockphoto.

Despite the so-called “Gastronomic Boom”, it is also important to reflect on the problems of inequality in the right to healthy eating in vulnerable communities, for which it is necessary to implement public policies that ensure access to good quality food for all.

Recently, Peru was recognized for the twelfth time as the best culinary destination in the world, at the “World Travel Awards 2024”. Which makes it a very attractive destination for any traveler who enjoys knowing and trying new flavors and ancestral recipes, in addition to visiting tourist attractions.

Ají de gallina. Photo by Natalie Rocfort on istockphoto.

Do not hesitate and plan your trip to this country so diverse in nature and culture, which awaits you with open arms and a table laid out to try one of the best cuisines in the world. Remember to be a responsible traveler and let’s positively impact the destinations and communities we visit.