Top 5: Restaurants in Arequipa

Peruvian cuisine is some of the most scrumptious food in South America, and few cities highlight this better than Arequipa. Be sure to check out these chic eateries when in town.

El Tio Dario

El Tio Dario is just as renowned for its garden seating as it is its food. The restaurant is located in the suburb of Yanahuara and offers views of the city’s three volcanoes. The specialty is seafood prepared with gastronomical concepts, so you’re always in for a treat no matter what you order here.

Zig Zag

Zig Zag is arguably the most popular restaurant in Arequipa. The stunning eatery is set across two floors joined together by a spiral staircase, and offers an atmosphere that is both rustic and classical. The cuisine is a fusion of Andean foods, with dishes like ostrich Carpaccio, dry-cured meats and even alpaca.

Chicha

Peru’s most popular chef, Gaston Acurio, runs the kitchen at Chicha. Here you’ll find traditional Peruvian dishes cooked with modern influences, with unique options like stir-fried guinea pigs. The restaurant lies inside a historic building for a classical appeal.

Pasta Cuisine

Pasta Cuisine pushes out pasta dishes that rival anything you’ll find in Italy. A quirky and vibrant atmosphere, friendly staff and plucky locals make it a must when in Arequipa. The eatery is small, and often crowded, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself eating out on the street. Trust us, it’s worth it.

El Fuego de San Antonio

Finally, few places cook steak to perfection the way the chefs at El Fuego de San Antonio can. The restaurant is nothing fancy, and sort of akin to a dive bar in the United States, but it’s packed full of lively locals and the food is perfect for a day spent watching a game on TV.