We were in the Inca capital and carefully chose the top restaurant, bar, and cafe signs in Cusco. Take note of these recommendations to ensure tasty meals during your trip!
If you’re looking to enjoy good food during your journey, it’s a good idea to explore this comprehensive guide featuring recommendations for restaurants, bars, and cafes in the city. Peru is renowned for its delicious cuisine, so it’s no surprise that we’ve compiled the top dining spots in Cusco for you to try.
Understand that there are various traditional dishes worth sampling, beginning with the renowned Ceviche made from raw fish marinated in lemon and flavorful seasonings, and accompanied by the signature Pisco Sour, a cocktail crafted from pisco, a traditional spirit, and lemon. In fact, indulging in both together is highly recommended. 😉
Here is a guide to the food scene and top dining spots in Cusco, along with useful information on prices and locations for various times of the day.
In this article, you will find:
- Cusco Cuisine – Traditional Meals
- Places to dine in CuscoMAP Coffee and RestaurantCicciolina El TupayInka GrillLimoCafé RiccharyMolly’s Irish Bar & Restaurant CuscoMistura GrillPapacho’sOrganika Bakery & Coffee
- Text: Cafe and Restaurant called MAP
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- The Tupay Text
- Inka Grill – Rewrite the text
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- Rich Coffee
- Molly’s Irish Bar and Restaurant in Cusco
- Grilled combination
- Paraphrase: Information about Papacho’s
- Organika Bakery & Coffee
- Dining establishments in Cusco
- Establishments serving alcoholic beverages in Cusco
- Cafes in Cusco
- What is the price of dining in Cusco?
- Where to dine in downtown Cusco
- Where to find affordable dining options in Cusco.
- Where to dine in Cusco during the evening.
- Where to have lunch in Cusco.
- Activities to engage in while in Cusco
- Accommodation options in Cusco
- View additional recommendations regarding Cusco.
- Commonly Asked Questions
- MAP Coffee and Restaurant – Coffee and Dining Establishment
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- Coffee Ricchary – Rich Coffee
- Molly’s Irish Bar and Restaurant in Cusco
- Grilled Combination
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- Organika Bakery & Coffee
Cusco Cuisine – Traditional dishes
Peruvian gastronomy is well-known globally, particularly for its renowned dishes like Ceviche and Pisco Sour. However, there are numerous other foods and beverages in Cusco that add to the richness of the cuisine and are worth experiencing during your visit.
Lomo Saltado is a popular dish served in many restaurants, consisting of beef fillet strips cooked with peppers, tomatoes, onions, and potatoes. Another commonly available meat option is Alpaca meat, which is lean and considered healthy due to its low fat content. The flavor and texture of Alpaca meat may be reminiscent of Brazilian dried meat.
Moreover, Cuy meat is widely recognized, although not everyone dares to try it as it is essentially the indigenous guinea pig. Typically served baked, Cuy can be found in upscale restaurants, bars, and even roadside eateries. If you prefer not to eat adorable animals, there are other options available such as chicken or trout dishes.
In terms of beverages, besides Pisco Sour, I suggest you sample Chicha Morada juice. Made from purple corn and flavored with clove and cinnamon, it is refreshing and readily available. Similarly, Inca Kola soda is a well-known brand exclusive to Peru.
Finally, it’s worth noting the traditional Coca tea, which assists in improving blood oxygen levels and aiding the body in adjusting to the high altitude of Cusco. This tea is readily available in hotels and restaurants, has a mild and pleasant flavor, and does not require any sweetening. Additionally, rest assured that it has no side effects or hallucinogenic properties.
Where to dine in Cusco
The top spot for dining in Cusco is within the Historic Centre area, particularly near the Plaza de Armas. This makes it easy to find great places to eat as you explore the city. Alternatively, you can save time by following our suggested eateries in Cusco.
| Where to eat… | Best Places: |
|---|---|
| Breakfast | Organika Bakery & Coffee |
| Lunch | MAP Coffee and Restaurant |
| Dinner | Cyccioline |
| Cheap | Mr. Ceviche |
| Romantic | Morena Peruvian Kitchen |
| Bar bar | Molly’s Irish Bar & Restaurant Cusco |
| near the Plaza de Armas | Clear |
MAP Coffee and Restaurant – A café and dining establishment
Located within the Pre-Columbian Art Museum, the MAP Café and Restaurant offers a delightful culinary experience with a diverse menu showcasing flavors from various regions of the country. I have personally visited and sampled each of the delectable dishes, which are thoughtfully presented with detailed descriptions. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and highly recommend it without hesitation. 🙂
Paraphrased: This establishment is a quiet setting that is open every day from noon to 10 pm, making it perfect for a memorable night out. The restaurant offers the option to reserve a table through Instagram and WhatsApp.
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Cicciolina is a renowned restaurant in Cusco known for its cozy atmosphere, extensive wine selection, diverse appetizers, and well-prepared main dishes. Additionally, it features a tapas bar perfect for enjoying happy hour.
The restaurant is open daily from 12:30 to 9:30 and is situated in the Historic Centre, adjacent to the Plaza de Armas, on the second level of a historic structure. On my initial evening in the city, following a day of hiking, I dined at Cicciolina. Despite feeling tired, I was able to relish a delicious grilled trout and a flavorful rosé wine.
By the way, here’s a tip: during your initial days in Cusco, choose light meals to assist your body in acclimating.
Tupay is a traditional dance from Peru.
Another popular restaurant is El Tupay, where our columnist Bruno Tavares recently dined at the renowned Belmond Monasterio hotel. This exclusive venue is only open three days a week and features a traditional live musical performance with a soprano and a tenor. If you wish to dine here, be sure to make a reservation in advance.
Illuminated by candlelight and adorned with stunning architectural arches typical of the area, the restaurant provides an ideal setting for a romantic dinner for two. While it is a more upscale choice that requires a higher financial commitment, it offers much more than just a meal experience.
Inka Grill – a restaurant specializing in Peruvian cuisine.
Another restaurant that was visited and endorsed by our writer, Bruno Tavares, is Inka Grill. Located in Plaza de Armas and open daily from 1 PM to 10 PM, diners at this establishment have the unique opportunity to enjoy a meal while admiring the main square of Cusco from a special vantage point.
The restaurant is widely known and offers a diverse menu with a range of prices. It includes burgers, salads, appetizers, individual dishes, grilled items, and desserts. Additionally, the bar offers a selection of popular drinks that are expertly made.
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Located directly across from Plaza de Armas, Limo restaurant offers a great option for experiencing Nikkei cuisine, a blend of Japanese and Peruvian flavors. For fans of Japanese cuisine, this restaurant is a must-visit, featuring a variety of sushi, nigiri, maki, poke bowls, a la carte options, hot and cold dishes, desserts, and a well-stocked bar. 😉
The location is highly necessary and provides tasty treats in a simple yet stylish environment. It is open every day from noon to 10 pm.
Rich Coffee
I encountered Café Ricchary on the final day of my journey, while strolling around Plaza de Armas and savoring a meticulously prepared cappuccino made from their own coffee beans. The café is compact in size and appears to be a favorite among locals rather than tourists, which enhances its appeal.
Operating from Monday to Saturday between 8am and 8pm, this coffee shop is a family-owned business that oversees the production and sale of coffee beans and powder in Cusco. They offer handmade coffees, chocolates, and ice creams that customers can enjoy on-site or purchase as gifts. I highly recommend trying them out! 😉
Molly’s Irish Bar & Restaurant in Cusco
Now, those seeking a vibrant bar can head directly to Molly’s Irish Bar & Restaurant Cusco, the city’s most renowned establishment. This venue combines the charm of Irish pubs with Peruvian culture, creating a laid-back ambiance, delicious cuisine, and, notably, exceptional drinks including Irish beers.
We are open Monday to Friday from 11 am to 1 am, and on weekends from 10 am to 1 am. We offer live music, game nights, sports events, and other activities.
Grilled Combination
The restaurant Mixture Grill, situated in Plaza de Armas, serves a menu featuring classic Cusco cuisine, including the popular roasted guinea pig. It is a budget-friendly choice, providing reasonably priced portions for two people.
Furthermore, there are vegan and vegetarian options available, along with pasta, pizzas, a variety of beverages, and desserts. The establishment operates daily from 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM.
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Papacho’s is another great bar option in Cusco, offering delicious food at affordable prices. Situated in Plaza de Armas, this restaurant has received high ratings on TripAdvisor. Their specialty is burgers, with choices available for vegans, vegetarians, and those with gluten allergies, as well as delicious sundaes.
The bar is open every day from noon to 10 pm and also provides delivery service. This is a convenient option for days when you’re feeling tired at the hotel and prefer not to go out.
Organika Bakery & Coffee
Continuing our list of suggestions for dining in Cusco, we have Organika Bakery & Coffee, a delightful café situated conveniently near Plaza de Armas. Perfect for a morning meal, this bakery offers a variety of tasty and freshly prepared dishes in a charming and inviting setting.
The establishment is open daily from 7 AM to 10 AM, offering a variety of freshly made breakfast items such as pastries, breads, empanadas, salads, pancakes, smoothies, coffees, teas, and more. It is the perfect spot to kick off your day on a positive note!
Eating establishments in Cusco
Certainly, the most notable feature of Capital Inca is its coverage of the different dining options in Cusco. With a wide range of diverse and high-quality gastronomy available, we have compiled a list below that includes various restaurant recommendations in Cusco, detailing different price ranges and highlighting the top locations for dining in the city. Take a look at our curated list:
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- MAP Coffee and Restaurant
- Grilled Combination
- The Tata’s Orchard
- Rewrite: Peruvian Kitchen called Morena
- “Organika” – Text.
- “Al Lomo Fino” – At the Fine Loin
- Adriano’s Trattoria
- Chick – A young bird
- Ceviche Meat & Wine Co is the name of the establishment.
- The individual named Mr. Ceviche
- Chakruna Burgers made with native ingredients.
Places to drink in Cusco
The bars in Cusco are perfect for having a great time at night. They are cozy and offer delicious food and excellent drinks, making them a great choice for travelers who want to unwind with friends while enjoying good prices. Be sure to explore our suggested options.
- Molly’s Irish Bar and Restaurant in Cusco
- Papacho’s Text
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- Bar of Ukukus
- The Factory Sports Bar
Cafés in Cusco
There are many cafés in Cusco that are great for beginning your day with a lovely breakfast or ending your afternoon with a tasty baked treat. Below, we have compiled some of the top and most highly recommended options.
- Ricchary Coffee
- Jack’s Coffee – A coffee shop owned by Jack.
- “Three Monkeys” – A trio of primates
- The Valeriana bakery creates baked goods.
- Coffee Dwasi can be paraphrased as “Dwasi Coffee”.
- Organika Bakery & Coffee
What is the price of dining in Cusco?
The typical cost of a lunch or dinner in Cusco is around R$ 50, but it can vary depending on the specific dish, location, and time of year. You may come across both cheaper and more costly options.
If you opt for restaurants closer to the Historic Centre, such as in Plaza de Armas, you can expect slightly higher prices, which may vary based on the dish chosen and whether you are visiting during the low or high season.
Additionally, it is important to mention that the prices listed on the menus are typically displayed in soles (S./) or US dollars (US$), so it’s important not to mix up the tip when settling the bill. 😉
Text: Where to dine in downtown Cusco
For those seeking a variety of dining options such as restaurants, bars, or cafes in the heart of Cusco, the Plaza de Armas is the prime location with a concentrated selection. Here are some recommended establishments in the area that fulfill this criteria.
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- Rich Coffee
- Molly’s Irish Bar & Restaurant in Cusco
- Grilled Combination
Where to find affordable dining options in Cusco
If you want to dine out without spending a lot of money, it’s recommended to visit the bars and restaurants in Capital Inca. These establishments are highly regarded for their delicious food and reasonable prices.
- “Mr. Ceviche” can be rephrased as “Mister Ceviche.”
- Chakruna Indigenous Burgers
- Molly’s Irish Bar & Restaurant Cusco
- Grilled Combination
- The Tata’s Orchard
Where to dine in Cusco during the evening.
Those looking to enjoy a delightful evening meal featuring more creative dishes can choose from the following suggestions. These upscale restaurants offer a range of prices to suit different budgets and serve delectable traditional dishes.
- Chick – Young chicken
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- El Tupay es un juego tradicional andino.
Where can I have lunch in Cusco?
And for those seeking a great lunch spot, here are some recommended restaurants worth visiting. We have selected some appealing options that cater to both taste and budget. Take a look:
- MAP Coffee and Restaurant – Coffee shop and dining establishment
- Grilled Blend
- Rewording: Peruvian Kitchen called Morena
- Papacho’s Text
- Ceviche Meat & Wine Co is a restaurant specializing in ceviche, meat, and wine.
Activities in Cusco
Now that you are aware of the top dining spots in Cusco, it’s time to explore the must-see activities in the area. Below, we have listed some key tour recommendations in Cusco that should be included in your itinerary. 😉
- Complimentary guided tour in the Historic Center – Plaza de Armas.
- Cusco’s tourist ticket.
- Incas Sacred Valley Tour
- Exploring Moray and the Maras Salt Mines Tour
- Tour of Machu Picchu including entrance tickets
- “5-Day Itinerary through the Salkantay Trail”
- 4 Day Journey along the Inca Trail
- Vinicunca hiking trail.
- Drive with four-wheel drive at Rainbow Mountain.
- Tour to Humantay Lagoon.
- New Year’s Eve celebration in Cusco
Explore additional tours in Cusco for an essential itinerary.
Accommodation options in Cusco
Certainly, we will continue recommending the top accommodations in Cusco. Given its popularity among tourists, the city offers a variety of lodging choices across various neighborhoods. To assist with your trip planning, you can book a room at one of the hotels in Cusco that we have highlighted.
- Old Mansion San Blas – Priced at $266 per day – Rating of 9.7
- Victoria Hostel is available for daily stays starting at $65, with a rating of 9.2.
- Sonesta Hotel Cusco offers a rate starting from $109 per day, with a rating of 9.1.
- Costa del Sol Wyndham Cusco is available for daily stays starting at $88, with a rating of 8.8.
- Amaru Colonial is available every day starting at $68, with a rating of 9.1.
- Accommodation at El Triunfo Hostel & Apartments starts at $54 per day, with a rating of 9.0.
Explore all the lodging choices available for your stay in Cusco.
Discover additional advice regarding Cusco.
The tips continue! Below, we have provided a list of detailed posts to assist you in organizing your trip.
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- Accommodations in Cusco
- Accommodations in Cusco
- Activities in Cusco
- New Year’s Eve celebration in Cusco
- Exploring Cusco through guided tours.
- Activities to enjoy in Peru
- What items should be brought to Peru
- Suggestions for activities in the Sacred Valley of the Incas
- Accommodations in the Sacred Valley of the Incas
- The Inca’s Sacred Valley
- Guide on reaching Machu Picchu
- Inca Rail – the text is referring to the train service known as Inca Rail.
- PeruRail – the text is referring to the train service in Peru.
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- Accommodation options in Machu Picchu
- Accommodations available in Machu Picchu
- Spending a romantic getaway in Machu Picchu for your honeymoon.
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- Activities to partake in while in Lima
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- Accommodation options in Lima
- Accommodations in Lima
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Do you enjoy receiving recommendations on where to eat in Cusco? Share your favorite spots in the comments and provide suggestions from your own travel experiences!
Commonly Asked Questions
Is tipping necessary in Cusco?
You are not required to leave a tip, or “propina”, at restaurants in Cusco.
What are the recommended food options in Cusco?
Some of the key traditional dishes you should try in Cusco include Ceviche, Lomo Saltado, Cuy, and alpaca meat. Don’t miss out on trying Inca Kola or Chicha Morada to drink, along with a refreshing Pisco Sour. And be sure to sample the renowned Coca tea.
Is dining in Peru costly?
The cost of dining out varies depending on the restaurant you choose, as some places have cheaper dishes for around R $40, while others offer meals starting at R $120. The price range is influenced by factors such as the restaurant itself, the type of food served, and the season (peak or off-peak) of the destination.
