Restaurants in Lima

For a true fine dining experience, the elaborate three-hour-long tasting menu offered by this prestigious stalwart of novoandina (modern Andean) cuisine takes diners on a culinary journey through Peru with 29 innovative dishes created with the freshest of ingredients. Those wanting a more casual meal and cocktails should book in at La Barra instead.

You'll need to book early to bag a table at Chef Virgilio Martinez's joint as it's one of the world's best restaurants. The menu celebrates the biodiversity of Peru, taking inspiration from coast to jungle to create seductive dishes such as purple corn-infused octopus and suckling pig. Sustainably sourced fish and fresh herbs from the rooftop garden add further flavour.

Right on the pier, this Victorian-style restaurant is worth a visit for its spectacular location alone. Come for a cocktail in the bar at sunset or sample its menu of exquisite seafood and daily specials. Go hungry to full by enjoying dishes such as crayfish risotto, chicken stuffed with prosciutto, or scallops sautéed with chilli.

This elegant restaurant has an extraordinary setting amid the 1st-century ruins of the archaeological complex Huaca Pucllana. Seated at white-clothed tables, diners enjoy sophisticated cuisine, such as corvine fish with a red quinoa crust and medallions of alpaca with corn soufflé, against a backdrop of Pre-Columbian ruins. Sit outside for just a drink and a light meal. 

This sought-after ceviche eatery from the don of Peruvian cuisine, Gastón Acurio, puts a contemporary twist on the traditional Peruvian cevicheria. As well as serving ceviche, there are seafood soups and many other fishy specialties. It's got a no-reservation policy and, true to the cevicheria tradition, only opens for lunch. Go early or late to avoid the queue. 

Owned by star chef Rafael Osterling, this inviting bistro is set in a bright townhouse buzzing with modish diners. Both Peruvian and Mediterranean flavours are on the menu. Wild mushrooms tagliatelle and prosciutto pizza jostle with grilled langoustine and lomo saltado (succulent sautéed beef). Fans can also try Osterling's other Lima outpost El Mecardo, open for lunch only.

Wooden tables, a well-trodden chequered floor and bottles along the walls give some idea of the ambience in Queirolo – a rustic tavern where Old World simplicity is key to its charm. Cheap Peruvian staples, sandwiches, piqueos (small plates) and a decidedly local crowd are in good supply, and the place boasts some of the best pisco around.

With walls festooned in football memorabilia, flags, black-and-white photos and vintage posters, this laid-back cevicheria oozes character. The 'Singing Frog' is always packed with locals and travellers alike, who linger over its menu offering a staggering assortment of ceviches, tiraditos (similar to sashimi) and other sublime seafood ensembles. Portions are generous and there are often weekend queues at lunchtime.

Take away some tasty treats from this simple, local favourite that's been around since the 1950s. A wide range of cerviche and other Peruvian classics are served in small portions – ideal for those keen to try a range of dishes. Grab a chicha morada (non-alcoholic drink made from purple corn), and take your pick. It can get busy, so turning up ahead of the lunch rush is wise.