Quickie Report: Long Weekend in Lima
Eating my heart out in Peru's capital.
Lima is usually overlooked and seen as a stepping stone before heading to Machu Picchu, but if you are planning to go to Peru, I urge you to stay a couple of extra days and visit Lima—for your stomach’s sake!
I was looking at flights and saw that the tickets for economy seats from Miami (a 5-hour flight) were $250, so I decided to ask my sister and brother to meet me there for a long weekend of fun.
🏨 Where I stayed
Costa del Sol is a 4-star hotel in the quiet but posh San Isidro neighborhood. I booked it for approximately $90. It's not too fancy but modern and clean. Plus, it has several amenities that were a highlight: a decent gym (can’t miss leg day) and an incredible complimentary breakfast buffet. The location is great, too.
👩🍳 Eating in Lima
To be completely honest, all we did was eat our hearts out (it was intended to be an eating holiday, and it truly was), so I’ll focus on sharing memorable meals.
In between meals, we just strolled through Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro, which are very walkable neighborhoods with lots of designer shops and little cafes. If you plan to go to Lima and want to explore things to do, feel free to message me, and I’ll send you a more detailed list. But let’s focus on food!
El Mercado de Rafael is a Laid-back and fun space with creative spins on Peruvian seafood specialities. I really liked their tiraditos and rice.
Pescados Capitales: Their speciality is fish, and it shows. The octopus with olives was the most decadent thing I’ve tasted in a while. I’m also amazed at the prices. We got so many plates, and for the three of us, it cost $200—a total steal as this restaurant is considered high dining. A truly special place
La Lucha Sangucheria: Every culture has some sort of sandwich, and Peru’s version is called “sanguches.” The last time I ate there was 12 years ago. I remember going to this hole-in-the-wall spot after partying and having a memorable meal. A decade later, I was so glad the sandwiches were still incredible.
It’s no hole-in-the-wall anymore, as they have grown into a chain, but the essence is still there. My choice this time? Pork belly. Here’s a tip: ask for as many sauces as possible and try them all.
Edo Sushi: Nikkei food combines classic Japanese cuisine with Peruvian influences. A friend who lives in Lima urged me to visit this unassuming spot, and I was blown away by the quality of the fish. We ordered a mix of classic Japanese sashimi and Nikkei dishes, and everything was outstanding. For an omakase-style meal, we paid $100 for the three of us. Isn’t that crazy?
Other places I went to that I didn’t take pictures of (I’m a bad blogger and was too hungry) but deserve all accolades:
Costanera 700: Another Nikkei restaurant focusing on fresh sashimi and whole grilled fish.
Pardo’s Chicken: Broiled Chicken is a Peruvian institution. At this restaurant, we had the best broiled chicken and Anticuchos (chicken hearts, lungs, and sweetbreads in sticks).
Some restaurants in Lima that I’ve tried in other places of the world and deserve a spot on this note:
La Mar: From renowned Gaston Acurio, I’ve been to this restaurant in Miami, and it’s incredible. I chose not to go to the one in Lima because I have it closer to where I live, but it’s worth the reservation.
Osaka: This is another Nikkei restaurant. I have also been to the one in Bogota, so I didn’t go this time. But highly recommended.
Love that you had a spontaneous casual eating weekend with your siblings!! I really like Nikkei dishes, and all the ceviche to be had here!
That looks like so much fun! Glad you had a good time!!