Cusco offers a unique dining experience. From alpaca to guinea pig, Peru does not disappoint. Many restaurants feature local foods, and the ingredients are just as diverse and rich as the country they come from. For example, Peru has over 4,000 different kinds of potatoes and is the home to trendy superfoods including quinoa and maca root. Cusco is a small town, but the restaurant options here seem to be limitless. The relative cost of food makes eating at even the nicest restaurants reasonable.
The most popular "must try" dish in Cusco is the cuy (Guinea pig). Named after the sound they make, cuy are a Peruvian delicacy and when cooked properly can be quite delicious. The dish has been a staple in Peruvian diet for about 5,000 years. The entire cuy is often displayed, but the meat is then cut up to be served.
The best way to begin and end every day is with a nice, hot cup of coca tea. Yes, this is the leaf that is used to make cocaine, but it is like comparing cough syrup to meth. This cup of tea tastes similar to a strong herbal tea with an earthy taste, and it should help you with any altitude sickness you may be feeling.
Another way to enjoy the cuisine is at San Pedro Market. It is definitely a unique experience that you will not soon forget. They had a bit of everything in this market from crafty souvenirs to every part of the cow you can think of. This market really opened our eyes and showed us how the people in Cusco really shop and eat.
Top places to to eat in Cusco
1. Pachapapa - located in the San Blas neighborhood surrounded by art shops and small courtyards, this hidden gem is known for having the best cuy in the city. This will not be a quick meal as the cuy takes an hour to bake. We recommend getting there early and taking your time. The quaint patio and rustic decorations make this a perfect place to spend a few hours. The cuy is best as an appetizer or a side to share rather than an entire meal. Don't forget to leave room for dessert, the tres leches cake makes me want to fly back to Peru now.
2. Chicha - This restaurant was a recommendation from a local and it lived up to the expectation. Nestled in a back courtyard, this restaurant may be one of the nicest in Cusco. The authentic meals came in large portions, and coupled with the romantic atmosphere, this would be the perfect place for a date night on your trip.
3. Jack's Café - About two blocks north-east from the Plaza de Armas, this restaurant is a convenient stop while exploring the city. Packed tight with backpackers and explorers, this restaurant always had a wait but was a great place to meet other travelers from across the globe.
4. Creperia & Backpacker La Bo'M - Crepes, in Peru. You read that correctly. This small restaurant offers both sweet and savory crepes made with local ingredients. Enjoy your one-of-a-kind dish while overlooking the city from their balcony. If you are looking to take a break from traditional Peruvian food, this is a great option.
5. Los Balcones Restaurant - this restaurant serves traditional Peruvian dishes with one of the best views in the city. You can enjoy your meal while overlooking the entire Plaza de Armas from their second story balcony. There was a parade going on in the Plaza when we stopped by the restaurant. We were able to escape the crowds and enjoy the show.
All of this delicious food can be washed down with a local favorite, Inca Kola. This bright yellow sugary drink can be found in every convenience store across Peru. I even found it in my local Walmart in Florida.
