Food Tour Lima

Lima, the capital of Peru, is a culinary destination like no other. The city’s unique blend of indigenous, European, African, and Asian flavors has resulted in a diverse and mouthwatering cuisine that has earned international recognition. From street food to fine dining, Lima’s food scene offers something for every taste bud.

Ceviche is an iconic dish of Peru, and Lima is the perfect place to try it. The city’s location on the Pacific coast provides access to fresh seafood that is essential to the dish’s preparation. The traditional recipe involves marinating raw fish, typically sea bass or flounder, in a mixture of lime or lemon juice, onions, chili peppers, and salt. The acidity of the citrus juice “cooks” the fish, giving it a firm texture and tangy flavor. Ceviche is typically served with corn and sweet potato, which provide a balance to the spicy and acidic notes of the dish.

While ceviche is a classic dish, chefs in Lima are constantly innovating and adding their own twists. Some restaurants serve ceviche with exotic fruits, such as passion fruit or mango, or substitute the traditional fish with seafood like octopus or shrimp. The best way to experience ceviche in Lima is to visit one of the many cevicherias in the city, which specialize in this dish and offer a range of variations to satisfy all palates.

Lima’s street food scene is a cultural phenomenon that offers an explosion of flavors, colors, and aromas. Street food in Lima ranges from the traditional to the exotic, and is served from carts, stalls, and food trucks across the city. One of the most popular street foods is anticuchos, skewers of beef heart that are marinated in vinegar, garlic, and spices, and then grilled over charcoal. The dish has its roots in the Andean region of Peru, and was adopted by the Afro-Peruvian community in Lima.

Another classic street food is tamales, which are made by wrapping corn dough around a filling of meat, vegetables, or cheese, and then steaming the packets until they are cooked. Tamales are typically served with aji, a spicy sauce made with chili peppers and herbs, and can be found in various forms throughout the city. Picarones, a sweet snack made of pumpkin and sweet potato dough that is deep-fried and served with molasses syrup, is another popular street food that is perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth.

Eating street food in Lima is not only an opportunity to experience the city’s flavors, but also to interact with its people and culture. Street vendors are often friendly and proud of their creations, and will happily share their stories and traditions with curious visitors.

Lima’s fine dining scene has grown exponentially in recent years, attracting foodies from all over the world. The city’s chefs are known for their creativity and passion for using local ingredients and techniques, resulting in a culinary experience that is both sophisticated and authentic. Some of the most acclaimed restaurants in Lima include Central, Maido, and Astrid y Gaston, which have been recognized by the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list and the Michelin Guide.

Central, led by chef Virgilio Martinez, is known for its use of native ingredients from different regions of Peru, such as quinoa, coca leaves, and Amazonian fruits. The restaurant’s tasting menu is a journey through the country’s diverse landscapes, flavors, and cultures. Maido, headed by chef Mitsuharu Tsumura, offers a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, combining traditional dishes like tiradito (a type of ceviche) and sushi with innovative twists. Astrid y Gaston, founded by the renowned chef Gaston Acurio, features contemporary interpretations of classic Peruvian dishes, such as ají de gallina (chicken in a creamy chili sauce) and causa (a potato-based dish).

Lima’s fine dining scene is not limited to traditional Peruvian cuisine, as many chefs are incorporating international influences into their menus. For example, Osso, a restaurant that specializes in grilled meats, offers a range of Argentinean-style cuts, while IK, a restaurant focused on Nikkei cuisine, combines Japanese and Peruvian flavors in innovative ways.

Beyond the food, Lima’s fine dining scene is also characterized by its stunning settings and impeccable service. Many restaurants are housed in historic buildings or offer breathtaking views of the city or the ocean. The service is often personalized and attentive, creating a memorable dining experience that goes beyond the food itself.