Food & Drink

A Culinary Overview of Peru

Peru’s varied geography creates a pantry unlike anywhere else. The high Andes produce quinoa, over 4,000 varieties of potatoes, and corn in every colour, while coastal kitchens focus on fresh seafood accented by citrus and spice.

In the Amazon, tropical fruits, bold herbs, and exotic river fish abound. National staples include ceviche, lomo saltado (a stir-fry of beef, peppers, and onions), creamy causa layered with potatoes and avocado, and the classic pisco sour cocktail. 

All around the country, regional specialties range from hearty Andean soups to the rich stews of the jungle, each reflecting the landscapes and cultures that created them.
 

Unique Peruvian Dining Experiences

An authentic food journey in Peru is as much about where you eat as what’s on the plate. Wander Andean markets piled high with native produce and medicinal herbs. Sample tangy tiraditos in a coastal cevicheria, sip a perfectly balanced pisco sour in a lively bar, or share a traditional pachamanca feast slow-cooked underground. A trip to Peru would not be complete without sampling Cuy (Guinea Pig) - it is a local speciality that is often enjoyed on special occasions.

In the Sacred Valley, enjoy a farm-to-table lunch with views of ancient Inca terraces, or join a cooking class led by Quechua hosts for an intimate cultural exchange. In the Amazon, discover the unexpected flavours of river fish wrapped in banana leaves. For more on Peru’s food and customs, see our Peru travel tips and etiquette guide.

Peruvian Wine and Spirits

Peru’s drink culture is as distinctive as its cuisine, with indigenous grape varietals like Quebranta and Torontel forming the base of its iconic pisco. The country’s vineyard region, Ica, offers sun-drenched landscapes perfect for producing both wine and spirits. 

Travelers can enjoy vineyard tours that trace the journey from vine to bottle, visit pisco distilleries to learn the craft behind the national drink, or indulge in a sunset tasting paired with regional small plates. 

“The pisco sour is Peru’s national cocktail—smooth, citrusy, and perfectly balanced,” says Destination Specialist Osvaldo Gonzalez. Whether enjoyed in a rustic bodega or a sleek Lima lounge, these flavours are an essential part of the Peruvian experience.

Dining Etiquette in Peru

Meals in Peru are often about connection as much as flavour. In many households and traditional restaurants, dishes are served family-style, encouraging conversation and sharing. In the highlands, dinner may be served early to match the slower evening rhythm, while coastal cities like Lima often dine later into the night. 

Tipping is not mandatory, though a small gratuity for good service is always appreciated. In rural areas, hospitality can be deeply personal, so accept any food or drink offered as a sign of respect. 

Dining rituals also connect to Peru’s rich cultural heritage, from market blessings to celebratory feasts. For more on the customs that shape these traditions, explore our guide to Peruvian cultural traditions.

Accommodating Dietary Needs in Peru

Peru’s culinary diversity makes it surprisingly accommodating for travelers with specific dietary needs. Vegetarian and vegan diners will find a wealth of options, from quinoa salads to hearty stews made with local vegetables, legumes, and Andean grains. 

Gluten-free travelers can enjoy naturally wheat-free staples like potatoes, corn, and rice, though care is needed in rural areas where cross-contamination is more likely. In coastal cities, plant-based ceviche variations are increasingly popular, while high-end restaurants in Lima and Cusco often offer tailored menus on request. 

Communicating preferences in advance ensures that even the most specialized diets can be met without sacrificing flavour or authenticity.

Plan Your Peruvian Culinary Adventure

A journey through authentic Peru is also a journey through its kitchens, markets, and farms. Imagine starting your day with a guided tour of a bustling Andean market, selecting fresh produce alongside local chefs, and then transforming it into a traditional meal during a hands-on cooking class. 

For a more intimate experience, private-chef dinners can be arranged in boutique hotels or haciendas, pairing seasonal dishes with select Peruvian wines and pisco cocktails. Food-focused itineraries can also include coastal seafood tours, Amazonian tasting menus, or farm-to-table experiences in the Sacred Valley. 

Book your custom Peru food and wine journey with Goway to blend cultural immersion with unforgettable flavors.

 

FAQs 

Why is Peruvian food so different?

Peru’s cuisine blends Indigenous ingredients with Spanish, African, Chinese, and Japanese influences, creating a unique fusion of flavours found nowhere else. Its varied geography, from coast to mountains to jungle, adds exceptional diversity to the national menu.

What is Peruvian street food?

Street food in Peru ranges from fresh ceviche and anticuchos (grilled meat skewers) to picarones (sweet potato doughnuts) and tamales. These quick, flavourful dishes offer an authentic taste of local life.

What is Peru’s national dish?

Ceviche, made with fresh fish marinated in lime juice, onions, and aji peppers, is Peru’s national dish and a must-try for any visitor.

What is the signature cocktail of Peru?

The pisco sour is a smooth, citrusy cocktail made with pisco brandy, lime juice, simple syrup, egg white, and bitters. It is the most iconic drink in Peru