Where to Eat in Cusco—Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner + Nightlife
Breakfast In Cusco
Jack’s Cafe
Jack’s Cafe, located at the heart of Cusco, is a cozy and charming place that offers an outstanding combination of Western comfort and culinary excellence. As you stroll through the historic streets, the irresistible smell of freshly brewed coffee will guide you to this inviting cafe. What makes this Cusco breakfast spot top tier is the scrumptious breakfast menu, which includes classic favorites such as fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and perfectly scrambled eggs.
Cafe D’wasi
We recently came across this lovely cafe called Cafe D’wasi in Cusco. It’s a great place to grab an authentic Peruvian breakfast that is full of flavor and sophistication. The cafe has a charming ambiance and offers a delicious range of Peruvian dishes. Its worth noting that all the dishes are prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
They also offer traditional Andean specialties as well as modern interpretations of classic dishes, which is a true celebration of the country’s culinary heritage. The cafe’s commitment to culinary excellence is evident in every dish it serves, from its delicious locally-grown coffee to its savory quinoa omelet.
Mercado San Blas
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and vibrant tapestry of Peruvian culture by visiting Mercado San Blas, a bustling marketplace located in the heart of Cusco. At Mercado San Blas, breakfast is more than just a meal – it’s a sensory experience that celebrates the rich Peruvian gastronomy. From fragrant empanadas and savory tamales to piping hot chicha morada and freshly squeezed juices, the market offers a tantalizing array of traditional dishes to satisfy your taste buds.
Mercado San Blas – Google Maps
Lunch In Cusco
Palacio del Inka
The Palacio del Inka, a former palace, now serves one of the best lunches in Cusco. It provides an exceptional dining experience with breathtaking views of the city. As soon as you enter, you feel like you’ve been transported to a world of luxury and history. One of the reasons for this is that the hotel is adorned with gorgeous colonial-style details, which truly embody Cusco’s heritage.
For many looking for a scrumptious meal, the main highlight is the food. Every dish is a masterpiece, prepared with fresh, local ingredients and a contemporary take on traditional Peruvian flavors. From ceviche to grilled meats, everything is simply delicious.
Palacio del Inka – Google Maps
Inka Grill
Inka Grill prides itself on offering a fusion of Peruvian cuisine, from traditional Andean dishes to contemporary creations influenced by global culinary trends. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty quinoa salad or a succulent alpaca steak, each dish is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality and innovation. With its prime location and mouth-watering menu, Inka Grill invites you to experience the spirit of Cusco while enjoying a memorable dining experience.
Mercado San Blas (for a totally Peruvian experience)
If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Peru, then Mercado San Blas is definitely worth a visit! Located in the heart of Cusco, this bustling market offers a lively and colorful atmosphere where you can find a variety of local flavors and culinary delights. From fresh produce and artisanal crafts to mouthwatering street food, this market has it all.
For those looking to tap into their adventurous side, be sure to try some of the piping hot anticuchos (a type of meat skewer), fragrant pollo a la brasa, refreshing chicha morada, and exotic fruits that are available here. With so many vendors and different foods to choose from, you’re sure to have a memorable dining experience that truly captures the essence of Peruvian cuisine.
Mercado San Blas – Google Maps
Dinner In Cusco
Pachapapa
Housed in a charming colonial building, adorned with traditional Andean decor, Pachapapa is a renowned restaurant that emanates warmth and sophistication from the moment you step inside. The restaurant is celebrated for its commitment to preserving traditional Peruvian culinary techniques while incorporating modern twists that elevate each dish to new heights of flavor and presentation. From succulent grilled meats cooked in a traditional clay oven to delicate ceviches bursting with fresh seafood, every bite at Pachapapa reflects the restaurant’s dedication to culinary excellence.
Chicha
Chicha is a renowned high-end restaurant chain in Peru that takes you on a gastronomic journey through the diverse flavors of Peruvian cuisine. The restaurant has multiple locations across the country, including a prestigious establishment in Cusco. Chicha has gained widespread acclaim for its innovative approach to traditional dishes and its commitment to using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.
The menu offers inventive takes on classic Peruvian dishes and inspired culinary creations that reflect the cultural diversity of the country. Through its authentic variety, Chicha showcases its culinary prowess and dedication to culinary excellence.
La Cusqueñita
Located in the heart of Cusco, this charming eatery invites guests to experience the rich traditions of the region through its vibrant performances and authentic dishes. As you enter La Cusqueñita’s welcoming dining space, you’ll be greeted by the rhythmic beats of traditional music and the colorful costumes of dancers who bring the spirit of Cusco to life.
Additionally, the menu features a tantalizing array of classic Peruvian dishes, prepared with locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking techniques that showcase the flavors of the region. From savory alpaca stews to crispy cuy (guinea pig) served with golden potatoes, each dish at La Cusqueñita is a celebration of Cusco’s culinary heritage.
La Cusqueñita – Google MapsTop of Form
Nightlife In Cusco
Los Perros Bar
Looking for a thrilling nightlife experience in Cusco? Look no further than Los Perros Bar. This cozy bar offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for enjoying some of the best drinks in town. Here, you will be greeted by the friendly owner, Lizka, who is known for her exceptional service. Whether you are planning a night out with friends or a romantic evening for two, Los Perros Bar is the perfect destination. Don’t miss out on this must-visit spot in Cusco!
Republica del Pisco
If you’re a fan of pisco, then Republica del Pisco is a must-visit bar. They offer a wide range of pisco-based cocktails, making it the perfect spot for aficionados who want to discover the diverse flavors of Peru’s iconic spirit. With its specialized focus on pisco, this bar is a unique and exciting addition to any cocktail enthusiast’s list.
Republica del Pisco – Google Maps
Mama Africa Bar
If you are looking for an upbeat space with loads of Latin music and a nightlife experience in Cusco, you will not forget to make your way to Mama Africa Bar. Here, you can experience one of the best show in town while moving to traditional music of Cusco. Overall, this bar is the ideal spot to immerse yourself in the electric energy of Cusco’s nightlife. Plus, be sure not to miss out on their delectable cocktails and local bites, which perfectly complement the lively atmosphere of Mama Africa Bar.
