6 Things to Order off a Peruvian Menu

Curious about what to order at a Peruvian restaurant but don’t know where to start? With help from Peruvian locals, this guide highlights six must-try dishes that showcase the rich flavors and cultural depth of Peru’s culinary scene. From the tangy freshness of chicha morada to the comforting boldness of ají de gallina, each dish comes recommended by people who know the cuisine best. Whether you’re a first-time diner or looking to expand your palate, this article will help you order like a pro. Dive into Peru’s vibrant food culture and discover the dishes that locals love—and that you’re sure to enjoy too.

Featuring

Michelle

Patrick

Oxana

1. Anticuchos de Vaca (Beef Heart Skewers)

“They were popularized by Afro-Peruvian communities who would often only have access to off cuts of meat, and therefore had to find a way to make them tender and tasty.” – Patrick

2. Chicha Morada (Purple Corn Drink)

“It’s one of our national drinks. Chicha as a whole has its roots in pre-Colombian civilizations or even older. The acidity will blend all of the flavors together to create one of the most unique drinks I’ve ever had.” – Michelle

3. Chupe de Camarón (Shrimp Chowder)

“It is velvety, rich, and warming while also highlighting the unmistakable taste of the camarón.” – Patrick

 

4. Ají de Gallina (Chicken in Huancaína Sauce)

“This incorporates so much of Peruvian cuisine, including the famous huancaína sauce. When I was small, this was a dish we would have every week on repeat.” Oxana

5. Tacu Tacu con Salsa de Mariscos (Rice & Bean Patty with Seafood)

“Tacu Tacu is a mixture of leftover rice and beans that is pan-fried in an oval shape so that it gets a crispy skin. The outside skin is smoky and crispy while the inside is soft and creamy. I like to pair it with Salsa de Mariscos, a very complex seafood-based sauce that is used in a plethora of Peruvian coastal dishes.” Patrick

6. Picarones (Sweet Potato & Squash Donuts)

“If you like donuts, you are going to love this. It tastes like pumpkin bread met a donut” Oxana

These Peruvian dishes were all incredible—and there’s still so much more to explore! My subscribers also recommended trying Papa Rellena (Meat-Filled Potato Patties), Lomo Saltado (Steak Strips over Fries), and Tallarines Verdes (Spaghetti with Spinach & Basil Pesto). I hope this gave you a deeper look into Peru beyond what you might already know, and a real appreciation for its rich, flavorful cuisine. If there’s a Peruvian restaurant near you, I highly encourage you to check it out and try these dishes!

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