The Arequipa Cuisine in Lima, Peru
Arequipa, the white city and Its culinary legacy
Arequipa, known as the White City for its buildings made of white volcanic stone (sillar), stands out not only for its architectural beauty but also for its rich gastronomy. Iconic dishes such as rocoto relleno (stuffed hot pepper), escribano (a traditional salad), pastel de papas (potato pie), and costillar frito (fried ribs), along with traditional desserts like queso helado (frozen cheese dessert), represent the culinary identity of this region.
Arequipean Flavors That Win Over Lima
In Lima, the capital of Peru, Arequipean cuisine has found a special place in numerous restaurants that serve these traditional dishes, bringing the essence and flavor of Arequipa to both local diners and visitors. These establishments are known for preserving traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients, offering an authentic Arequipean culinary experience.
A historical and cultural heritage that transcends time
Arequipa was founded on August 15, 1540, under the name Villa Hermosa de Nuestra Señora de la Asunta, in honor of Francisco Pizarro, one of the Spanish conquerors. In 1541, King Charles V granted it the title of city. Long before that, in 1170, the region was visited by the Inca Mayta Cápac, who recognized the importance of this land. The name Arequipa comes from the Quechua phrase Ari – que – pay, reflecting its ancestral roots.
Arequipean cuisine in Lima
Lima, as Peru’s gastronomic capital, warmly embraces the culinary richness of all its regions—and Arequipean cuisine is no exception. Arequipean restaurants in Lima offer a direct window into the authentic flavors of the White City, with traditional dishes that preserve their original essence and charm. From the bold heat of rocoto relleno to the refreshing sweetness of queso helado, these venues have become meeting points for those seeking a unique and history-filled gastronomic experience without leaving the capital.
EL ROCOTO
One of the most representative Arequipean restaurants. The menu includes dishes like rocoto relleno, ocopa arequipeña, sarza de patita, costillar dorado, and Arequipean sancochado on Thursdays and Fridays, among others.
Location: Av. Aviación 4907, Santiago de Surco, Lima – Peru
Phones: 01 4483040 / 977322743
Reservations: Call the numbers provided
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm / Sunday, 8:00 am – 5:30 pm
EL CHARACATO DE ORO
Serves delicious Arequipean cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, featuring iconic dishes like rocoto relleno and adobo, especially on Saturdays and Sundays.
Location: Av. Aviación 3101, San Borja, Lima – Peru
Phone: 01 6934538
Reservations: By phone or walk-in
Hours: Every day, 8:00 am – 5:30 pm
EL RINCONCITO AREQUIPEÑO
One of the best restaurants to enjoy iconic Arequipean dishes like costillar frito, malaya, chupe de camarones, cuy chactado, pisco sours, and the delicious queso helado.
Location: José Bernardo Alcedo 514, Lince, Lima – Peru
Phone: 01 4716484
Reservations: By phone or walk-in
Hours: Daily, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
LOS BALCONES DE AREQUIPA
Invites you to enjoy the delicious cuisine of the White City in a pleasant setting. House specialty: ocopa arequipeña, among others.
Location: Av. Circunvalación 2550, San Luis, Lima – Peru
Phone: 977644363
Reservations: By phone or walk-in
Hours: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
LA OLLA AREQUIPEÑA – RÍMAC LOCATION
This spot offers the true taste of typical Arequipean food with excellent quality. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of dishes from the southern city.
Location: Av. Bravo Rueda 214, Rímac, Lima – Peru
Phone: 994779818
Reservations: Walk-in only
Hours: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
LA OLLA AREQUIPEÑA – SANTA ANITA LOCATION
Enjoy the authentic taste of White City cuisine. The menu includes seafood and fish dishes in addition to typical Arequipean cuisine, all in a very pleasant atmosphere.
Location: Av. Francisco Bolognesi 1060, Santa Anita, Lima – Peru
Phone: 934659904
Reservations: By phone or walk-in
Hours: Every day except Tuesday, 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
EL PREGÓN
This restaurant has been offering Arequipean food and tradition for 30 years. Enjoy a delightful menu, with a house specialty of locro de pecho arequipeño.
Location: Av. Arnaldo Márquez 1616, Jesús María, Lima – Peru
Phones: 01 4600350 / 933710709
Reservations: Call the numbers provided
Hours: Daily, 9:00 am – 6:00 pm