Peruvian food for tourists is often one of the biggest surprises when arriving in the country. Many travelers land in Peru thinking about Machu Picchu, but end up remembering their trip for an unforgettable ceviche, a perfectly served lomo saltado, or a gastronomic experience shared with locals.
“
Many travelers arrive in Peru for the landscapes, but end up remembering the trip because of the food.
”
In this guide you will discover what to eat in Peru for the first time, which are the most famous Peruvian dishes, and how to experience Peruvian gastronomy in an authentic and safe way, especially if this is your first visit.
Why is Peruvian food so famous around the world?
Peruvian gastronomy stands out for a unique combination: biodiversity (coast, highlands, and jungle), native ingredients (potato, corn, chili peppers, quinoa), and cultural influences from Indigenous, Spanish, African, Chinese, and Japanese traditions. The result is a diverse and deep cuisine, where each dish reflects history and territory.
- Regional variety: seafood flavors on the coast, ancestral cuisine in the Andes, and Amazonian dishes in the jungle.
- Unique ingredients: chili peppers, native potatoes, corn varieties, and fruits not found the same way elsewhere.
- Cultural fusion: chifa (Peruvian-Chinese) and nikkei (Peruvian-Japanese) as part of everyday life.
What to eat in Peru for the first time (dishes that never fail)
Peruvian ceviche: the first big impact
Ceviche is Peru’s flagship dish. It is prepared with fresh fish, Peruvian lime, red onion, and chili pepper (sometimes optional). Its flavor is citrusy, fresh, and intense.
“
Most travelers hesitate before the first bite of ceviche… but after the second, they understand why Peruvian food is so famous.
”
Tip for tourists: try it at lunchtime and in recommended places. If you don’t tolerate spicy food, ask for the chili on the side.
Lomo saltado: the universal favorite
Lomo saltado combines stir-fried beef, onion, tomato, soy sauce, French fries, and rice. It is an excellent first choice because it mixes familiar flavors with authentic Peruvian seasoning.
Ají de gallina: mild, creamy, and perfect to start
Ají de gallina is often one of the most recommended dishes for tourists. It is creamy, flavorful, and usually mildly spicy. If it’s your first time, it’s a safe bet.
Anticuchos: Peru’s street food experience
Trying anticuchos (grilled marinated skewers) is experiencing the real Peru, especially in markets and night street stalls. They are usually made with beef heart and an intense marinade.
Rocoto relleno: for adventurous travelers
A typical dish from Arequipa. Rocoto relleno is spicier and more intense. If you like spicy food, it can be one of the most memorable dishes of the trip.
Most famous Peruvian dishes among tourists
In addition to the classics, many travelers fall in love with these Peruvian dishes:
- Causa limeña: mashed yellow potato layered with various fillings.
- Arroz con mariscos: a favorite for seafood lovers.
- Pachamanca: traditional Andean earth-oven cooking with meats and tubers.
- Chupe de camarones: a hearty soup typical of southern Peru.
- Tallarines verdes: pasta with Peruvian-style basil sauce.
Peruvian food by region: what to try in each area
Peruvian coast
The coast is ideal for seafood dishes like ceviche, tiraditos, and rice with seafood. If you visit Lima or other coastal cities, take advantage of the freshness of fish and shellfish.
Andean highlands
In the highlands, cuisine is heartier and more ancestral. Here, traditional techniques stand out, along with dishes perfect for cold climates, such as soups, stews, and preparations like pachamanca.
Amazon rainforest
The jungle offers different and lesser-known flavors: juanes, tacacho with cecina, and Amazonian fish. If you want something truly different, you’ll find it here.
Gastronomic experiences in Peru for travelers
Beyond eating at a restaurant, many people remember their trip for authentic experiences such as:
- Visits to local markets to learn about ingredients and try traditional food.
- Peruvian cooking classes to learn how to prepare dishes like ceviche.
- Pisco tastings with cultural and historical context.
- Guided food tours through traditional neighborhoods (ideal if it’s your first time).
These experiences don’t just feed you—they help you understand Peru through its everyday culture.
Real tips for tourists trying Peruvian food
- Start with mild dishes and then explore more intense flavors.
- Ask about spice levels: many places can adjust or serve chili on the side.
- Combine tourist and local options: try recommended restaurants and also markets with a guide.
- Stay well hydrated and try traditional drinks like chicha morada.
Is Peruvian food safe for tourists?
Yes. Most travelers enjoy Peruvian gastronomy without issues by following basic recommendations: choose places with good reputations, prefer recommended restaurants, and for market or street food experiences, go with a guide or reliable recommendations.
Real traveler experience in Peru
This article has been prepared by Conde Travel, an agency specialized in tourism and gastronomic experiences in Peru, in collaboration with local guides and feedback from international travelers.
- Experience: recommendations based on real routes and experiences with tourists.
- Expertise: a practical approach for those visiting Peru for the first time.
- Authority: content aligned with travel experiences and local culture.
- Trust: transparent advice focused on safety and authenticity.
Note: if you have allergies or dietary restrictions, always consult with the restaurant and your guide. Most places can adapt if informed in advance.
Experience Peruvian gastronomy with Conde Travel
At Conde Travel, we believe that food is one of the best ways to get to know a country. That’s why we design gastronomic experiences for travelers seeking authenticity, culture, and flavor: markets, guided routes, and local recommendations.
Discover Peru through its food and turn your trip into an unforgettable experience.
