Seafood is central to the Peruvian diet, with traditional dishes such as ceviche. And while Lima is the country’s capital city, it has also earned a reputation as an international gastronomy capital. Fresh seafood is abundant here, particularly in the upscale coastal district of Miraflores. Here, we take a look at the 10 best restaurants in Lima for the seafood lover.
Ceviche is a dish typically prepared from raw fish cured in citrus juices and seasoned with peppers, widely believed to have originated in Peru. Therefore, a trip to Peru’s capital city is not complete without trying the country’s national seafood dish. La Mar in the Miraflores neighborhood is perhaps the most well-known ceviche spot in town, and for good reason. Created by internationally acclaimed chef and Peruvian food ambassador Gastón Acurio, La Mar serves up all sorts of ceviche, from a classic version to a Japanese-inspired fusion with tuna. Address and telephone number: Av. Mariscal La Mar 770, Miraflores, Lima, Peru,+51 421 3365
This small, family-owned restaurant, also located in Miraflores, promises to give an authentic Peruvian dining experience. As you walk into Costazul Seafood Restaurant you’ll be greeted by the owner, Carlos, who will treat you like family. If you’re not sure what to order, try the ronda fria for a taste of four traditional Peruvian appetizers – ceviche, octopus with olives, a seafood salad, and tiradito, a spicy raw fish dish similar to sashimi.
Pescados Capitales has a modern decor and there are two outdoor terraces where you can enjoy a traditional cocktail and some of the freshest fish in the city. Highlights are not limited to the creative ceviches; also worth trying are the seafood fettuccine and the shrimp eggrolls called tequeños. Address and telephone number: Av Mariscal La Mar 1337, Miraflores, Lima, Peru,+51 1 2225731
Puro Peru
Restaurant, Peruvian, Seafood, $$$
At Puro Peru you’ll find a huge assortment of gourmet seafood, allowing you to taste specialties from different parts of the country without even leaving Lima. The kitchen is in the middle of the restaurant, allowing you to watch the chefs work their culinary magic. On Sunday evenings there is also a show featuring traditional dance.
Mirasol is located near the coast in the Chorrillos district of southern Lima. Though it’s a bit off-the-beaten-track, the seafood at Mirasol is definitely worth the trip. The restaurant has a rustic feel and plays up to a nautical theme, with wood accents and local art displayed on the second floor. Owner Andres Rojas, a native of Chorrillos, incorporates many of his family’s recipes into the menu. Try the almejas gratinados,an appetizer plate that combines clams and creamy Parmesan cheese, or the entrées, which make heavy use of uber-fresh seafood, such as swordfish, shrimp, squid and octopus.
El Mercado puts an interesting twist on traditional Peruvian seafood by recognizing its many culinary influences, including Japanese, Chinese, Spanish, and Italian. This is one of the trendiest spots in town. Locals flock here for a ceviche lunch in the shade of the canopy-covered patio. The restaurant is owned by Rafael Osterling, one of Lima’s top chefs.
A meal at Punto Azul may require a wait – usually a line forms around the block during lunch hours. But that’s hardly a surprise as the seafood here is outstanding. The menu is expansive and this restaurant has opened a number of other locations. If you’ve had enough ceviche during your Lima trip, check out the arroz con mariscos, which combines rich flavors with plenty of fresh seafood.
Restaurant Huaca Pucllana is named after the 1,500-year-old archaeological ruins that are located right outside its walls. The restaurant features an outdoor terrace, which provides a view of those ruins: sit here to enjoy one of the best dining spots in the city. The menu features a variety of fish options, such as a seared tuna fillet with a herb crust.
Sonia is a classic Lima restaurant that’s not to be missed. Make your way to Chorrillos for a no-frills ceviche and calamari experience that is sure to please your palate. Lunch here is a loud and lively event, with plates being passed from one patron to the next. As the years have gone by, Sonia’s reputation has continued to grow.
Maido is a Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant headed by chef Mitsuharu Tsumura, who has roots in both countries. His high-end establishment has been named among the best restaurants in the world. If you’re looking to splurge, go for the tasting menu: a 17-course meal that showcases the best of Nikkei cuisine, including sushi, sashimi and ceviche.
