Top Local Foods To Try When You Visit Lima

While Lima may not be as recognized for its culinary scene as, say, Italy or France, it still has plenty of variety to offer an adventurous traveling foodie.

Ceviche

Ceviche in Peru is like a national treasure that everyone loves and raves about. Raw fish is marinated in lime, hot chili peppers, onions and salt, with the acid from the marinade “cooking” the fish. Two favorites Lima restaurants where you can find this dish are Punto Azul and Restaurant Sonia.

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Pisco Sour

This centuries-old cocktail has been a favorite in Lima on and off since its inception. Currently a fashionable and favorite drink, a Pisco Sour is made from Pisco, lime juice, egg white and bitters. Head to the Country Club Lima Hotel and the English Bar for the authentic experience.

Pollo A La Brasa

Pollo a la brasa can be viewed as a simple food of the common man, but to those who have tried it, they know it’s some of the best roast chicken you’ll find during your travels. Fatty, well spiced and slow-roasted on a spit, you can find this dish on nearly every street corner, and the small local chains serve it best. This is no time to be squeamish — forgo the knife and fork and dig in with your fingers.

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Cuy

Speaking of squeamish, don’t balk at this next local favorite. Cuy is just another way to say, “fried guinea pig.” The meat may be a little game-y, but if you can’t stand to take a bite of an animal reminiscent of your childhood pet, you may want to visit a guinea pig farming operation, if just for an experience you definitely won’t find anywhere else. Like pollo a la brasa, this dish is best served at one of the local holes in the wall.