A Foodie’s Guide to Cusco: Best Restaurants, Markets & Local Dishes

If you’re anything like me, exploring a new destination means eating your way through it. And Cusco is a foodie’s dream come true. Between colorful markets, traditional Peruvian dishes, and world-class restaurants, there’s no shortage of flavors to fall in love with.

When I arrived in Cusco, I expected to find amazing history and culture. What I didn’t expect was how much I’d fall in love with the food. Whether you’re sipping fresh juice at a local market, trying Andean classics like lomo saltado, or enjoying a modern twist on traditional dishes, Cusco will surprise you at every bite.

Here’s everything you need to know about eating your way through Cusco — from the best local dishes and restaurants to where to find authentic street food and coffee spots.

The Flavor of Cusco: Why This City is a Food Lover’s Dream

Cusco is a city where the past and present blend beautifully — and that’s especially true when it comes to its food. Traditional Andean recipes are passed down through generations, but you’ll also find innovative chefs creating modern Peruvian cuisine with local ingredients.

Expect dishes filled with native potatoes (there are over 3,000 varieties in Peru!), giant corn kernels, quinoa, and alpaca meat. Altitude even plays a role in the flavor — ingredients cook differently at 11,000 feet, giving dishes a unique texture and taste you won’t find elsewhere.

Must-Try Traditional Dishes in Cusco

You can’t visit Cusco without trying at least a few of these local favorites:

• Lomo Saltado: Stir-fried beef or alpaca with onions, tomatoes, and fries — a perfect fusion of Peruvian and Chinese flavors.
• Aji de Gallina: Shredded chicken in a creamy yellow pepper sauce, usually served with rice and potatoes.
• Cuy (Guinea Pig): A traditional Andean delicacy often reserved for special occasions — definitely for the adventurous eaters! I tried it fried but I wish I had tried it the traditional way. Don't worry, you don't have to get it with the head still attached unless you choose to.
• Trucha (Trout): Fresh from the nearby Andes lakes, usually grilled or fried.
• Choclo con Queso: Simple and delicious — giant Andean corn with a slice of local cheese.
• Chicha Morada: A refreshing non-alcoholic drink made from purple corn, cinnamon, and fruit.
• Inka Kola: Peru’s famous bright-yellow soda that tastes like bubblegum — love it or hate it, you have to try it once! I unfortunately didn't love it, but I'm not a big soda-drinker either.

Tip: Many restaurants in Cusco offer set “menu del día” options at lunchtime — they’re affordable, filling, and a great way to sample traditional dishes.

Top Restaurants in Cusco

Cusco’s food scene has something for everyone. From cozy local spots to upscale dining experiences, here are a few standouts:

Chicha by Gastón Acurio
Run by one of Peru’s most famous chefs, this spot celebrates traditional Andean ingredients with a modern twist. Try the alpaca steak or the quinoa risotto.

Pachapapa
Located in the charming San Blas neighborhood, Pachapapa is perfect for trying wood-fired Andean specialties in a courtyard setting. The clay oven pizzas and trout are amazing.

Cicciolina
A small-plate restaurant known for its tapas-style menu and cozy vibe. Their fusion dishes and cocktails are perfect for a relaxed evening out.

Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse
An upscale steakhouse serving sizzling meats on volcanic stone plates — a must for carnivores.

Green Point
A local favorite for vegan and vegetarian travelers, with creative plant-based takes on Peruvian classics.

Traveler Tip: Reservations are recommended for dinner at most popular spots, especially during high season (June–August).

Exploring San Pedro Market: A Local Experience

If you want to experience Cusco like a local, San Pedro Market is a must. It’s loud, colorful, and full of energy — a sensory overload in the best way.

Wander through rows of vendors selling everything from fresh produce and cheeses to handwoven textiles and souvenirs. You’ll find juice stands blending tropical fruits, stalls serving soups and empanadas, and even a few adventurous snacks (fried frogs, anyone?). It can be intimidating, but I promise it's worth visiting, and eating at if you're up for it.

Tips for Visiting San Pedro Market:

• Go early for the freshest produce and a less crowded experience.
• Bring small bills — many stalls don’t have change for large notes.
• Stick to cooked foods and bottled drinks if you have a sensitive stomach.

Street Food & Local Eats

Cusco’s street food is delicious and surprisingly varied. If you’re willing to try a few things outside the main tourist spots, you’ll find some gems:

• Anticuchos: Grilled meat skewers, often made with beef heart — smoky and flavorful.
• Tamales: Corn dough filled with chicken or cheese, wrapped in banana leaves.
• Churros: Warm, crispy, and dusted with sugar — perfect for an afternoon snack.

Street food in Cusco is affordable and tasty, but always make sure food is hot and freshly cooked. And while I love street food, it's often what causes people to have an upset stomach, so use your best judgment on whether you want to try street food.

Best Cafes and Coffee Spots in Cusco

Need a caffeine fix between sightseeing stops? Cusco’s cafe culture is thriving, thanks to Peru’s excellent coffee-growing regions.

• Three Monkeys Coffee: Great locally sourced beans and a cozy atmosphere.
• Café Loco: Tucked above the Plaza de Armas with an incredible view — ideal for digital nomads or people-watching.
• The Meeting Place Café: A community-driven spot known for hearty breakfasts and friendly vibes.

Whether you’re looking for a place to work, relax, or sip something warm, Cusco’s coffee scene won’t disappoint.

Tips for Enjoying Food in Cusco

• Start slow. Let your stomach adjust to the altitude before diving into heavy meals.
• Drink bottled or filtered water.
• Support local eateries. Some of the best meals come from family-run spots off the main streets.
• Try a cooking class or food tour. It’s a fun way to learn about Peruvian ingredients and culture.

Savoring Cusco One Bite at a Time

Cusco may be known as the gateway to Machu Picchu, but it’s also a destination where food tells the story of the Andes — its people, traditions, and history.

From market snacks to fine dining, every meal in Cusco is a chance to taste the local culture. Whether you’re a foodie at heart or just love discovering authentic flavors when you travel, Cusco’s food scene is guaranteed to leave you inspired (and very well-fed).