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5 Of The Best Lima Food Tours

Want to experience authentic local cuisine without breaking the bank and without the hassle of reservations? Would you like to learn about Peruvian food in a practical way? Are you curious about the culture of Peru and it’s culinary traditions and you’d like some guidance on where to start exploring? Try a Peruvian food tour in the capital city, Lima.

Food tourism in Peru is big business. In 2019 Peru was named the world’s leading culinary destination for the 8th year running . The UN World Tourism Organization says that over 40% of visitors to the country are there to experience the food as their first priority. With attractions like Machu Picchu, soaring mountain ranges, tropical jungle, and surf beaches, as ‘competition’, food tourism has made huge progress in Peru.

Chef Gaston Acurio is often credited with being the person that most influenced the current upward trend in interest in Peruvian gastronomy. In 2014 the Wall Street Journal named Acurio as the person most responsible for the increased popularity of his native cuisine. Acurio is involved in promoting tourism and culinary vacations in Peru and he has laid the groundwork at an international level.

But what options are available to visitors who want an all-in-one introduction to Peruvian cuisine , or who are short on time and possess only a basic knowledge of where to start their food journey? The answer is a ‘Food Tour’, a touristic experience that has really taken off in Lima in the last 5-10 years.

Peru features prominently in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants every year and almost all of these restaurants are located in Lima . On the 50 Best Latin American Restaurants list, positions 1, 2, and 7 are occupied by Lima eateries. Why does Lima have that makes it such a special culinary destination ? The essential gastronomic experience that is Lima, the capital of Peru, is based upon centuries of immigration from countries with important culinary heritages (Spain, China, Japan), incredible indigenous foods unique to this country, and a booming economy.

Peruvians, and especially residents of Lima, are fiercely proud of their cultural heritage. Peru’s ‘gastronomic status’ is a source of national pride. Sure, Paris is the food capital of the world, the Italians have made an art form out of durum wheat and New York and London offer the widest range of food options anywhere. But nowhere will you see such joy and pleasure in the preparing and the eating of local food as in Lima.

We talked to 5 companies that have created a way for tourists to experience a wide range of Peruvian foods in different settings without having to worry about logistics. Lima food tours are fast becoming one of the biggest ‘must-dos’ for tourists visiting the country and we talked to our friendly guides about how they have created and adapted their businesses around this ever-growing trend.

They also give us a few tips on where to find the best ceviche and tell us what their favourite Peruvian dish is.

Lima Food Tour Companies, in no particular order: 1 . Lima Gourmet Company 2. Lima Tasty Tours 3. Delectable Peru 4. Alternative Peru 5. Exquisito Peru

Lima Gourmet Company

Barranco, Colina 107, Lima, Peru | Phone: +51 1 4466829

Coming in at no.1 on Tripadvisor’s list of Lima tours (of any type) is probably enough to secure a solid stream of customers for the Lima Gourmet Company . But team LGC has obviously been busy with its marketing efforts. Securing the top results in Google for the main search keywords is also a sign of a business which understands the market. Positive reviews from The Huffington Post and other publications have helped the brand become one of the most recognized.

The company has focussed on delivering a quality service since 2011 and it has paid off. Samantha Lewis from Lima Gourmet Company tells us how the business is trying to change the image of Lima as just a transition point for tourists on the way to the likes of Cusco and Machu Picchu. One of Lima’s greatest assets is its culinary history and status as ‘food capital’ of Latin America. Many tourists arrive in the country unaware of the amazing range of eateries hidden away in corners of the city. Samantha and her team help improve the city’s image through education about its delightful food and culture.

• How long has the company been in existence? We began running food tours in Lima starting in December of 2011. We are just about to celebrate 5 years in business .
• What was the impetus for starting your food tour business? We started the business as we found that most travelers on their way to Machu Picchu, the Amazon, and other destinations had to spend at least a day in Lima. The idea was to diversify from the traditional tourism circuit and provide an alternative that involved the excellent food that Lima offers at a time when Lima was consolidating internationally as a major culinary capital .
• What has been the biggest challenge in growing your business? As with any new business, getting people to know that you exist and trust your brand was challenging at the beginning. It required a lot of patience and investment both in time and money to get to the point where we are today.
• Which countries represent most of your client base? At the beginning, clients were mainly North American, however, now we have a very diversified clientele from Chile to China and everywhere in between.

Both of our tours in Lima are equally popular, the Day Tour and the Evening Tour. The Day Tour is more popular with people that enjoy markets and cooking classes , whereas the Evening Tour is more laid-back, and about enjoying the foodie experience and like-minded company in a new place.

What are your typical tours like? We offer two tours, both of them are approximately five hours long . The idea is not only to try different restaurants, but also to see different parts of the city. We cover the most iconic dishes, such as cebiche , anticuchos and causas , but also incorporate gourmet, Peruvian novelties such as food from the Amazon.

Are your clients already knowledgeable about Peruvian food, in general? About 50% have had some kind of experience with Peruvian cuisine before reaching us. Latino clients are very familiar with our cuisine, but are always surprised by the freshness, quality and diversity of our ingredients. North Americans and the rest of the world have heard about the reputation Lima has garnered as a foodie haven and are amazed by the quantity and quality of top restaurants in the city .

What’s the most gratifying part of running a food tour business? The most gratifying part of running food tours is that through our work, we are helping to change the image that Lima once had as an ugly, boring city with nothing to do and nothing to see. The way we incorporate food on our tours involves culture, history, and even architecture. It has served as a way to rebrand the city as an exciting, attractive destination . So much has changed in the last five years that we now see people coming to Lima just for a weekend to eat!

What is your favourite Peruvian food? It’s so difficult to pick just one dish when there are such a variety of dishes to be found in Peru. Our favorite has to be adobo , or a type of spicy pork stew, from Arequipa . The stew is marinated overnight so the flavors are out of this world. Traditionally, at the local picanterías where the dish is found, only the chef tending the pot knows the exact recipe. It’s also said to be an amazing hangover cure after too many pisco sours . It’s true Peruvian soul food.

Where can the best ceviche be found? To find the best cebiche, it truly depends on what you have in mind. For a classic take on the dish, respecting traditional recipes, Isolina is the place to go. They serve old-style Peruvian dishes and make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time 50 years to this trendy corner. If, however, you are looking for a bit more excitement, try the Amazonian plantain cebiche at Amaz, or the Japanese Nikkei fusion cebiche at El Mercado . If you just can’t decide, you can always check out Cala for a cebiche tasting platter with different styles.

Lima Tasty Tours

Av. Almirante Grau 1113 Of. 107 Barranco, Lima | Phone: +51 958 313 939

The  Lima Tasty Tours  company was founded by Arturo Rojas, a highly experienced tour guide who has an infectious enthusiasm for the food of his native country. The business started as a hobby to entertain friends but has since come a long way and Arturo’s tours are now a highly sought after experience for foodies.

Lonely Planet describes the business as “Excellent gastronomic tours, with tailored options and insider access to lesser-known culinary treasures, available in English.”

Melissa Salgado and Arturo Rojas, who run the company, told us about their biggest challenge in the business: finding experienced guides. They noted how the majority of their customers are already fans of Peruvian food before they arrive in Lima as tourists. Such is the power of Peruvian food worldwide. In a short period of time, the national cuisine has exploded in popularity internationally , creating a skills gap where local tour guides with experience and passion for the food are hard to find.

• How long has Lima Tasty Tours been in operation? Lima Tasty Tours has been on the tourism market since 2010 but it is a formal company in Peru since 2013.
• Why did you start your food tour business? The founder Arturo Rojas was leading tours all over South America for 7 years and realized that every person he met that had visited Peru talked excitedly about Peruvian food. As Arturo worked in the farming industry from a young age and had an insight into how locals dine he decided to try offering traditional and tasty local food  to people from all over the world, in the form of food tours. Rojas began by creating tours for his friends and then graduated to offering tours to tourists and other locals alike.
• What has been the biggest challenge in growing the business? The biggest challenge is finding the right people for the company with the passion, knowledge, and love for sharing Peruvian food. This form of tourism is still very young.
• Where do most of your clients come from? Most of our clients are from the US, followed by English and Spanish speakers from all over the world.
• What is the most in-demand tour that you offer? Our most popular tour is Que Rico . This tour offers the chance to experience the most touristic areas of Lima and sample different hidden local spots . The most traditional appetizers, desserts, drinks, dishes plus seasonal fruits are found in our visit to the local market.
• How are your tours structured for visitors? Our food tours are made for a maximum of 6 clients, so everyone can enjoy the experience. The tours start and finish in our clients’ hotel. Tours begin by 9:30am when rush hour is finishing. Food samples are chosen in places that are 100% safe and clean for our clients, and the tastes are designed for the Limeño ( someone from Lima )  palate, so muy rico ! The market we visit is where they interact and experience a shopping day with locals. Same for the restaurants. The idea is to walk and eat like a Limeño for a day . At the end of the tour they won’t forget the experience and great taste of Lima.
• Are your clients already knowledgeable about Peruvian food, in general? I would say that 70% of them have already had Peruvian food near where they live, so they are excited for more.
• What’s the most meaningful and enjoyable part of running a food tour business? More than just being a food tour business, we feel like we are part of this new wave of promoting Peruvian food in the world . We don’t doubt that we will conquer every palate. The most gratifying part is the recognition of the whole food chain in this business starting with our lovely farmers, their amazing products, and the market vendors always sharing a smile with us. I love to hear at the end of the tour, “I will look for Peruvian restaurants in my town.”
• What is your favourite Peruvian food? You know that this is one of the hardest questions in my life, but I can answer it like this: arroz con pato in Chiclayo, Saralawa (corn soup) in the andes, ceviche in Trujillo, grilled fish with cocona spicy sauce in the Amazon, anticuchos and picarones at 7 pm in Lima.
• Where can the best ceviche be found? As I said before I get the best ceviche in Trujillo , but here in Lima, the best ceviche can be found in Tia Julia restaurant  in Chorrillos. Lima Tasty Tours organized everything for the documentary about Julia’s ceviche life story .

Delectable Peru

Phone: +51 979 134 542

Delectable Peru certainly has one of the best-named tour companies operating in Lima at the moment. Founder Ericka La Madrid, a passionate foodie, set up the business after living in the USA. On returning to Peru Ericka realized that there was potential for a culinary experience business which highlights one of Peru’s greatest sources of pride and identity, its food. Delectable Peru was born 6 years ago and has been serving visitors interested in Peruvian food ever since. Tours are tailor-made, designed to accommodate the culinary interests of individual clients and groups. And if your luck is in, you might just meet the legend himself,  Gaston Acurio .

• How long has Delectable Peru been serving the tourist market in Lima? I started my culinary tour company 6 years ago when I returned back home from the USA.
• What was the genesis for your food business? I was amazed by the transformation of our food scene and started exploring Lima’s new restaurants and meeting their chefs.
• What has been the biggest challenge in growing the business? In any business, there are always lots of challenges. In our case, we need to stay updated with the new spots in Lima and trying to offer something unique.
• Where do most of your customers come from? Most of the time, customers come from the US due to my network connections, through family and friends. But I have given tours to many people from all over the world, such as the Philippines, Australia, Holland, China, and Japan. Clients include travel reporters , chefs , and restauranteurs looking for wanting inspiration for new culinary offerings. I feel I all can relate to anyone about food in one common language. We are all foodies after all.
• What is the most popular tour and why? Peruvian Classic Experience Tour is probably the most popular as that tour offers most of the Peruvian dishes that people like to try.
• What is the general format of your food tours? We can accommodate groups for either mid-morning or early evening depending on time availability, and depending on what kind of culinary experience desired.

• What’s the most gratifying and enjoyable part of running a food tour business? I am passionate about my country and the promotion of our rising culinary scene.  We are constantly trying new restaurants, meeting new chefs, and traveling around Peru and beyond to stay updated on the various ingredients used and those who prepare them. Recently, I have also been a guest speaker on culinary tourism at Peruvian universities and even at the UN’s World Health Organization International Forum of Food Gastronomy held here last April in Lima.
• What is your favourite Peruvian food? I will give this funny answer from one of my friends who is a chef: “Well my favorite dish is the more profound (or deepest) one because it contains more food”. There are so many to choose from!

Alternative Peru

Av. La Fontana #1109, La Molina, Lima | Phone: +51 971 269 423 (WhatsApp)

The Ceviche preparation display of Alternative Peru ’s Lima food tour is the highlight for most customers, says co-founder Natalie, a Belgian native. The tour introduces visitors to a wide range of meats, cheeses, fruits, and even alcoholic beverages from Peru.

Alternative Peru offers an alternative view of the city of Lima and a socio-cultural tour as part of the full-day package offered to tourists. The attention-grabbing tag-line for the tour is “Eat and Experience Lima in ways you’ve never imagined” and the mix of authentic local food sampling and interaction with locals from the poorest neighbourhoods of Lima is certainly a unique experience.

Alternative Peru’s website discusses ‘responsible tourism’ and the benefits that local communities receive from tours that visit them. If you would like to give something back to the local communities where the market-sellers, cooks, cleaners, and food producers live and help deliver your gastronomic experience, this might be the tour for you.

• How old is your company Alternative Peru? We started in September 2014.

• What has been the biggest challenge in growing the business? Reaching people while on a small budget (competing with the big tour operators) and making sure that they know it’s safe to go off the beaten path in Lima with us.
• Where do most of your clients come from? Most of our clients are from Anglo-Saxon countries with the greater majority from the US, then Australia, NZ, Canada and the UK.
• What is the most popular part of your food tour and why? The ceviche demonstration ! The local lady at the market that prepares the ceviche has a great personality and of course, ceviche is the best known Peruvian dish among visitors (and also because it’s just delicious).
• What is the format of your food tour  ? Our tour consists of 2 parts. At 10:30 am, we meet the tourists at the central meeting point. From there, we walk to a local, authentic market outside of Miraflores. Visitors try all kinds of fruits, cheeses, liquors, juices, sweets, side dishes, and food from the 3 regions of Peru (Costa, Sierra, and Selva) including of course ceviche. There’s plenty of food and visitors are more than satisfied when leaving the market. Our guide gives, of course, lots of information on the different foods as well as some other background information about Peru, its people and its traditions in general. At 1 pm, our private transport picks the visitors up and we’ll go even more off the beaten path . First, we will visit one of the largest, and very authentic, cemeteries in the world. After that, we visit one of Lima’s pueblos jovenes or human settlements, where our local guide shows us around her neighborhood. We meet several locals and we learn more about a local social project that does great work in the community. The tour has been developed to be an off-the-beaten path, intercultural experience that is responsible and respectful towards the locals. In addition, the visit supports the local project that is visited on the tour.
• Are your clients already familiar with Peruvian food? Most of them know at least about ceviche and Pisco Sour. Everyone is still surprised about the incredible diversity of the food with the dishes and fruits from the coastal area, the Andes, and the jungle.
• What’s the most gratifying and meaningful part of running a food tour business? Right now, Peruvian food is really conquering the world , so it’s nice to see visitors’ admiration for Peruvian food. But it’s also really nice to still see them surprised at how many different and diverse dishes we have in Peru. Of course, it’s also always funny to see the reactions when we tell them we eat fried guinea pig .

• What is your favourite Peruvian food? My favorite is definitely the delicious chicken dish, Aji de Gallina, but I really love causa (preferably with palta) too. I love ‘ choclo con queso ’ as well.
• Where can one find the best ceviche? Some of the best and cheapest ceviche can be found on local markets, ‘ huecos ’ (hole in the walls, where the locals go) or street carts. For nicer, but still cheaper than Miraflores restaurants, there are really great restaurants on Playa Herradura in Chorrillos . It has the same quality as the Miraflores restaurants but because it’s further away, it’s mainly locals that go there.

Exquisito Perú

Avenida José Larco 880, Miraflores, Lima | Phone: +51 915 155 430

Jessy Caiado runs one of the newest foodie tours in Lima. We talked to him about his tours, his favourite foods, and how the tour business got started.

How long has the company been in existence?

Exquisito Perú launched in February 2018 but have been crafting our project for almost a year prior to the launch date.

What was the impetus for starting your food tour business?

It all started when my mom came to Lima to visit. As we are both foodies, we went to one of the most famous restaurants in Lima and were surprised that the menu was only available in Spanish and English. As my mother only speaks French, the experience wasn’t that great for her as my level of Spanish at that time wasn’t good enough to translate all the exotic things that were on the menu.

As an entrepreneur at heart, I started investigating to see what the food tourism offer was like for French-speaking tourists in Peru in general and realized there wasn’t much, or it was somehow too difficult to find. Also, I thought that in general, I could offer better experiences, whatever the language. I then remembered the time I spent in Madrid literally right before I moved to Peru (1 day layover), where I took a food tour with the fine folks at Devour Tour and how I loved the experience. They have been a great inspiration for Exquisito Perú.

My own personal and professional experience coupled with my passion for Peru and gastronomy, in general, seemed to be the perfect match to launch a food tourism business that would cater to French and English speaking foodies.

What has been the biggest challenge in growing your business?

Like all new business, it takes time until people get to know and trust you. Navigating Peruvian bureaucracy has also been a small headache at the start. It took us a lot of time, which we would have preferred to invest in other aspects of our business. But that’s part of the game!

Which countries represent most of your client base?

So far North America, UK, Germany, and France, but we plan to diversify mid-term.

What is the most popular tour and why?

• Barranco Ultimate Peruvian Food Tour
• Historic Center’ Street Food Night Tour

So far both are equally popular. Our Street Food Tour in the historic center of Lima tends to be more popular among younger crowds.

What are your typical tours like?

We currently offer three tours but plan to have many more soon. We will start with Lima but we hope that we will be successful enough to develop tours in other regions. Our walking food tours of Barranco and the center of Lima are 4 hours long. While in Barranco tourists can taste the most famous dishes Peruvian gastronomy has to offer ( ceviche , lomo saltado, causa rellena , pisco sour , etc), in the center we focus more on street food (anticuchos, picarones , emolientes drinks ) and things you usually find in tabernas .

We think that these two tours complete each other as tourists can try different types of food while visiting Lima’s most famous districts among visitors. There’s a big cultural and historical component in all our tours, too. We also have a more upscale product where we take clients to dine three different restaurants (one per region!). It also includes a chocolate workshop and a cocktail stop at Carnaval!

And we have pisco, coffee , wine and cheese activities too! Also, it’s important to mention that we partnered with Action Against Hunger Peru to develop our 1 tour = 1 meal program – having an impact, not only on local small businesses, is really important for us. And that’s just the beginning, we will do way more in the future!

What’s the most gratifying part of running a food tour business?

Everyone at Exquisito Perú is highly passionate about Peruvian gastronomy . So, the idea of working hard to show international visitors the richness of this cuisine is very exciting and motivating. The happiness and surprise we generate with our experiences, as self-proclaimed ambassadors of Peru, is what makes us wake up in the morning.

What is your favourite Peruvian food?

It’s a bit boring, but I would say lomo saltado . Not only does it taste so good, it’s also a dish full of history that is for me one of the symbols of the amazing mix of cultures one can find in Peru.

Where can the best ceviche be found?

That’s a hard one! There are so many places with great ceviche! My personal favourite can be found at Barra Maretazo in Miraflores, but every chef has their own touch, which makes it really hard to compare them all. Nanka (La Molina, San Isidro), Al Toke Pez (Surquillo) and Barra Chalaca (San Isidro) are great options too.

Thanks to all of the tour operators that agreed to be part of this blog post. There is enough variety in each of these excellent tours to satisfy the most curious traveler and foodie. If you have time and resources why not check out each one and get the full gamut of Peruvian food tour experiences .

Most of the gastro tours take place in the Miraflores district as this is where the majority of tourist hotels are located.  Most visitors are from the USA with other English-speaking countries making up the majority of the other clients. Tours are bilingual so if you’d prefer the Spanish version then you can request this. Those learning Spanish might avail of the opportunity to learn about something they are interested in while practising their language skills.

Have you taken a tour with any of the companies above? What did you particularly like about the tour? Let us know in the comments below.

Peruvian foodie. I’ve been writing about the food of Peru for over 10 years. Read more about the Eat Peru team here

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YOUR FOODIE ADVENTURE IN LIMA STARTS HERE!

Explore our Lima tasty food tours

THE BEST ULTIMATE PERUVIAN ALL-INCLUSIVE LOCAL TASTY FOOD TOURS IN LIMA

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local spirit and feeling. This is more than just a tasty food tour. Our Lima tasty food tours are like a nice walk with local friends filled with delicious tastings and captivating stories.

Our knowledgeable tour guides take you to the most renowned food spots in Lima, exploring the diversity of Peruvian flavors, and discovering local hidden gems where the food takes center stage.

You definitely won’t leave hungry! – Small Group Experience! Check out all of our Food & Culture Tours below and book one today!

Secrets Revealed

Peruvian cooking class & market tour, immerse yourself in this peruvian cooking classes hands-on tour of lima’s stunning oceanside. led by a culinary expert, explore the local market, uncovering exotic ingredients you’ve never seen before..

If you love tasty food, interesting facts, and cultural experiences in a small group setting then this food tour suits you perfectly! Lots of local unique tastes in a neighborhood off the beaten path.

Unforgettable, nazca lines & huacachina experience, fly over the mysterious nazca lines, enjoy a traditional lunch, and get to know the impressive huacachina oasis, ride buggies over the giant dunes, and enjoy the incomparable desert sunset..

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Mind-blowing food

Mouth-watering dishes have been selected by locals, our family, friends and foodies. Our tours include a selection of traditional dishes in hidden gem restaurants. These scrumptious dishes will make you a fan of Peruvian food, guaranteed!

Friendly Guides

Our food tour guides have superb food knowledge, cultural expertise, great senses of humor, and superior customer service, and are extremely excited to share their knowledge with you! You will have a friend in Lima for culinary experiences.

Support Local Business

We are proud to support small, local family-run businesses on our Lima tasty food tours, they provide the feeling of a personal touch that prioritizes quality over profit. We can’t wait to introduce you to them and enjoy the flavors of Peru.

History through Food

This is more than a food tour. It’s a glimpse into the real Peru: good eats while discovering cool facts about the city’s evolving history, tradition and ever-changing architecture. We share the story behind the bites of each unique neighborhood.

Local & Intimate

Discover off-the-beaten path locations within a small group setting.  Over the years we have come to realize that groups with a maximum of 6 people allow everyone to have a more complete experience with every step and every bite.  Bon appétit!

Attention to Detail

We are excited that you are visiting Lima!  Our team goes the extra mile to give you personalized assistance and suggestions to help you make the most of your time while visiting Peru. We want to contribute to your food experiences around Peru.

What are people saying about our Lima tasty food tours?

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Lima Ultimate Peruvian Food Tour in Artsy Barranco

• Adult $89 USD
• Under 18 $79 USD

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Emblematic flavors in latam's coolest neighborhood.

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One of the best Food Tour’s I’ve been on

Best food tour, super tour, a fantastic tour from a local guide, very, very good tour, what is included.

• Tasting of 14 flavors
• Licensed expert guide
• Dedicated travel support while you are in Peru
• For Private Groups only: pick up and drop off included (for LIM Airport or Callao cruise terminal, please reach out before booking)
• For Shared Groups only: pick up and drop off not included

Additional data

• This tour is not recommended for people with reduced mobility (stairs)
• Please note that we do not mix languages in our Shared Group Tours – make sure that you select the right time slot, whether you speak English or Spanish. If you require the guide to speak another language, please book a Private Tour. For the comfort of the group, be it shared or private, guides will not be providing their service in multiple languages simultaneously.
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• Degustación de 7 platos peruanos

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Where do we meet.

• Plaza San Francisco, Barranco
• Group food tour: 9:30, 11:00, 15:00, 17:00 / Private food tour: anytime

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• 1800 - 333 5578
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• Deutsch ( German )
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Let yourself be seduced by the unique flavors and aromas of Peruvian cuisine on our gastronomic tours. From tasting in traditional markets to learn how to make a perfect ceviche, we will take you to different spots to learn about the origin of its ingredients and taste the most emblematic and exquisite dishes.

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Lima Mentor is Peru’s foremost provider of tours specializing in the City of Lima – its sights, its history, its culture and its tastes.

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Food Tour Lima

Taste authentic and delicious Peruvian flavors!

Food Tour Lima takes place in the diverse capital city of Peru. Lima is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of dining options and a rich culinary culture. The city’s cuisine is heavily influenced by the indigenous, Spanish, and Asian cultures, creating a unique and flavorful blend of flavors and ingredients. Some must-try dishes include ceviche, a popular seafood dish made with raw fish marinated in lemon or lime juice, and lomo saltado, a stir-fry dish made with steak, onions, tomatoes, and potatoes.

In Food Tour Lima visitors sample traditional Peruvian dishes such as ají de gallina, a creamy chicken stew made with chili peppers, and papa a la huancaína, a potato dish served with a spicy cheese sauce. Lima is also home to a thriving street food scene, with vendors selling a variety of tasty and affordable dishes. With its delicious and diverse offerings, Lima is the perfect destination for food lovers looking to experience the best of Peruvian cuisine.

Why book with us?

Authentic tour

Back in 2017 we were the only company doing tours in Barranco and the first one creating a food tour in this district.

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Food tours in lima.

Street food tour in Market n° 1 from Miraflores

Price: 49 USD

Wake up early to come to the famous Market n° 1 located just next to Miraflores district

3-hour food tour in Barranco district in Lima

Price: 59 USD

Take the guesswork out and join this small group food walking tour through Lima’s favorite district

Private food walking tour in the historic center of Lima

Price: 99 USD

Live an excited time eating foods of your preference while learning about Peruvian culture

Lima, the capital of Peru, is a culinary destination like no other. The city’s unique blend of indigenous, European, African, and Asian flavors has resulted in a diverse and mouthwatering cuisine that has earned international recognition. From street food to fine dining, Lima’s food scene offers something for every taste bud.

Ceviche, the king of Lima’s cuisine

Ceviche is an iconic dish of Peru, and Lima is the perfect place to try it. The city’s location on the Pacific coast provides access to fresh seafood that is essential to the dish’s preparation. The traditional recipe involves marinating raw fish, typically sea bass or flounder, in a mixture of lime or lemon juice, onions, chili peppers, and salt. The acidity of the citrus juice “cooks” the fish, giving it a firm texture and tangy flavor. Ceviche is typically served with corn and sweet potato, which provide a balance to the spicy and acidic notes of the dish.

While ceviche is a classic dish, chefs in Lima are constantly innovating and adding their own twists. Some restaurants serve ceviche with exotic fruits, such as passion fruit or mango, or substitute the traditional fish with seafood like octopus or shrimp. The best way to experience ceviche in Lima is to visit one of the many cevicherias in the city, which specialize in this dish and offer a range of variations to satisfy all palates.

The explosion of flavors in street food

Lima’s street food scene is a cultural phenomenon that offers an explosion of flavors, colors, and aromas. Street food in Lima ranges from the traditional to the exotic, and is served from carts, stalls, and food trucks across the city. One of the most popular street foods is anticuchos, skewers of beef heart that are marinated in vinegar, garlic, and spices, and then grilled over charcoal. The dish has its roots in the Andean region of Peru, and was adopted by the Afro-Peruvian community in Lima.

Another classic street food is tamales, which are made by wrapping corn dough around a filling of meat, vegetables, or cheese, and then steaming the packets until they are cooked. Tamales are typically served with aji, a spicy sauce made with chili peppers and herbs, and can be found in various forms throughout the city. Picarones, a sweet snack made of pumpkin and sweet potato dough that is deep-fried and served with molasses syrup, is another popular street food that is perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth.

Eating street food in Lima is not only an opportunity to experience the city’s flavors, but also to interact with its people and culture. Street vendors are often friendly and proud of their creations, and will happily share their stories and traditions with curious visitors.

Lima’s fine dining scene

Lima’s fine dining scene has grown exponentially in recent years, attracting foodies from all over the world. The city’s chefs are known for their creativity and passion for using local ingredients and techniques, resulting in a culinary experience that is both sophisticated and authentic. Some of the most acclaimed restaurants in Lima include Central, Maido, and Astrid & Gaston, which have been recognized by the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list and the Michelin Guide.

The best restaurant of the world is in Lima

Central, led by chef Virgilio Martinez, is known for its use of native ingredients from different regions of Peru, such as quinoa, coca leaves, and Amazonian fruits. The restaurant’s tasting menu is a journey through the country’s diverse landscapes, flavors, and cultures. This restaurant is now the number 1 of the 50 best restaurants of the world, which converts Lima is the culinary capital of the America.

What customers have said about us

We were definitely not wrong in choosing this tour in Barranco because it was honestly great. We ended up so happy and full that we could easily roll down back to our hotel. This food tour is definitely a 10/10.

I had tried Peruvian food before and loved it. This food tastes too good to live without it. On my first day in Peru I decided to take this culinary tour to learn a little more about the history of Peruvian gastronomy.

This food tour was a revelation! From the iconic Lomo Saltado to the rich historical insights, every moment was a delight. A must for foodies exploring Lima’s vibrant culinary scene. Recommend it!

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Lima Food Tour - Secret Food Tours

Did you know Lima is considered to be the culinary capital of Latin America? We'll share with you the best Peruvian food and introduce you to this unique culture. Our tour focuses on showcasing the diversity of sustainable and delicious food within our country. As an added benefit, we'll show you how to find the best local shops and restaurants, and provide you with many other great local tips to make your experience truly memorable. By booking our Secret Food Tours: Lima, you'll enjoy a variety of local Peruvian favorites.

On our Secret Food Tour: Lima, you'll enjoy a variety of local Peruvian dishes. We'll take you through the small, secret streets of Lima for a Peruvian gastronomy tour in the historic area of Barranco.

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Lima Food Tours : 12+ Best Local Tours and activities | Peru 2023

In Lima, every step reveals another facet of the city’s rich history, which encompasses not only Spanish and Portuguese colonial presence but also waves of Japanese and Chinese immigration. The result? Lima is a true melting-pot. Exploding with artistic, culinary and architectural affluence, Lima has earned the reputation as one of the most exciting cities in the world.

Want to discover the best of what Lima has to offer? If so, check out our curated list of Lima food and walking tours. We’ll lead you to the best afternoon pisco bar, around the most impressive Incan stonework, while sidestepping tourist traps as you fulfill your adventures.

Lima Food Tours

Widely accepted as the gastronomical capital of South America, Lima has a diverse and surprising culinary scene. For a great introduction, you can count on these awesome Lima food tours.

1- Lima Gourmet Company

If your laces are tied and your stomach is rumbling, you’re ready to embark on an adventure with the Lima Gourmet Company . The length of the tours (five hours!) guarantees an in-depth Lima food tour experience. What’s more, you’ll also get to choose between day tours and evening food tours , allowing you to find the tour that will perfectly fit your jam-packed schedule . Of course, different sights means we recommend you try both: Lima under the sun is completely different from a visit under the stars. In any case, both tours feature fun hands-on activities ( DIY ceviche workshop, anyone? ) and a journey that will take you through three neighbourhoods. With Lima Gourmet Company being ranked #1 on Trip Advisor since 2012 , their food tours will definitely be a highlight of your trip.

2- Haku Tours

Looking for something a little more intimate ? Haku Tours highlight a truly local life experience. On their Lima Bizarre Tour , you’ll discover La Victoria , the largest outdoor shopping space in the American continent. Your guide will whisk you through the market – stopping of course for a sweet sample here and there, while explaining Peruvian culture and the history of the market along the way. The heart of the tour is what Lima locals call the Witches’ Market . Once there, you can browse strange specimens and Shamanic objects. You’ll even get your fortune read by a coca leaf reader from the Andes.

Haku Tours limit their groups to a five person maximum . This means you’ll be sure to get an exclusive, personal experience. Not only will you connect with a knowledgeable guide, you might just also make a couple new friends!

3- Exquisito Peru

Exquisito Tours promises you Lima’s most exquisite and unique flavours, presented through an immersive, expert guide experience. Take, for example, their Gourmet Lima food tour. You’ll regale your stomach with a 21-course dinner , featuring fine dining from Lima’s newest generations of chefs. Through this culinary journey, you’ll learn about the three regions of Peru ( selva, sierra, costa or ‘forest, mountain, and coast’). Moreover, you’ll learn about the complex relationship between Peru’s incredible biodiversity and culinary scene . Supporting Exquisito Tours also means practicing ethically-conscious tourism , as they team up with local businesses on their tours, as well as supporting local nonprofit Action Against Hunger Peru.

4- Foodies Peru

Want a Lima food tour hosted by local, well-travelled food experts ? You’ll find yourself in good hands at Foodies Peru. We particularly recommend their Hidden Miraflores Food Tour . As you make your way through the upscale, swanky district to the south of downtown Lima, you’ll get numerous special tastings. Among them, slow-cooked lamb , exotic fruits , ceviche, and chocolate samples from a local chocolate factory. For a memorable experience in Lima, book now on the Foodies Peru site.

5- Free Walking Tours Barranco

No trip to Lima is complete without a visit to its most popular district – Barranco. Indeed, this neighbourhood is recognized for its vibrant nightlife and foodie scene. Let the Free Walking Tours guide your way through the neighbourhood and some delicious eats on their Barranco Food Tour . While you sample fresh produce and meats , and test recipes handed down from generation to generation, a tour guide will recount the history of this beautiful Lima area. If you’re interested in dynamic, refreshing Lima food tours, you can also take a look at their Peruvian Cooking Class .

6- Da Taste of Peru

Da Taste of Peru tours combine an exquisite culinary journey with a deep appreciation of Lima architecture and art . Their tours are also themed, which means that you should take a look at their website to find the perfect tour for you! For intrepid travellers , we recommend the Dare the Unexplored tour. The tour is a great way to discover not only Lima’s historical center, but also the Barranco bohemian district. For more unique Lima food tours, check out their website .

7- Lima Tasty Tours

Lima Tasty Tours considers it their duty to tell the stories of the people behind the food. Indeed, on one of their tours, you’ll benefit from a deep connection with vendors, producers, and chefs with whom you can exchange directly! Their Lima Market tour, for example, is an incredible, in-depth look at busy life of a Peruvian market. You’ll start the tour early – alongside cooking mothers, and local restaurant sous-chefs. Along the course of the six-hour tour , you’ll be treated to over fourteen different samples based on seasonal foods . And of course, you’ll also meet the wonderful, experienced people behind the stalls as well. So if you want to participate directly in the Lima culinary community, Lima Tasty Tours are truly the one for you.

8- Peruvian Aventure Tours

Peruvian Adventure Tours only have one food tour as of now – but book quickly, as it is well-reviewed and uber-popular . Their Barranco food tour will lead you through one of the coolest parts of Lima. Of course, you’ll stop for some mouthwatering Lima specialties, and a refreshing beverage along the way. Keep an eye out for their upcoming Beaches and Ceviche tour for some salty coastal fun.

9- Huarique Bike

Vegans: good news! Huarique Bikes tours has the ideal experience if you want an active, fulfilling, but environmentally-conscious Lima food tour. That’s right – on their Vegan Food Tour . Find all the best Peruvian classic cuisine, from ceviche to speciality desserts , obviously all meat and dairy free. For more gastronomic tours on two wheels, take a look at their website for a tasty spin around Miraflores or Barranco neighbourhoods.

10- Food Walking Tour Peru

You guessed it – Food Walking Tours Peru combine the two best things about exploring a new country: the food and the sights. On their tours, not only will you enjoy yummy, fresh local foods , but you will also explore the city on street-level. No impatient tour rush to get to the next stop, or getting gawked at like annoying tourists. Tours like their Downtown Street Food tours are meant to give you the experience of a real Peruvian local. You’ll taste delicious samples, but also learn about Lima’s art, slang, and general culture. For similarly engaged tours in Miraflores or Barranco, check out their website !

Lima Walking Tours

No better way to check out Lima than through an insider’s perspective, which you can find on these two Lima walking tours.

11- Free Walking Tours Peru

With Free Walking Tours Peru , you’ll be taken off the beaten path of Lima tours – for free! These tours each cover a specific district of Lima, and are focused on creating an almost family-like experience of camaraderie. Indeed, you’ll be placed in small groups (no struggling to hear your guide!), and be lead to mom-and-pop stores through the tours. An authentic experience, and an ideal way to visit Barranco , Miraflores , and Downtown Lima.

12- Alternative Peru

Alternative Peru offers tours that are not only fun and informative, but also explicitly ecology-oriented . Alternative Peru vouch for not only environmental preservation, but also cultural preservation . This means that through experiences like their Artisan and Pachacamac tour, you’ll forge stronger connections with the local people. We’ve specifically highlighted this tour due to its uniqueness – it introduces you to the pre-Inca and Inca history of Peru . However, many other possibilities await at Alternative Peru, including half-day and full-day Lima tours, or the Lima Food and Socio-Cultural Tour .

Don’t forget to try one of our great Canadian food tours!

• Beyond Kensington Market Food Tour
• Mile End Montreal Food Tour
• Montreal Brewpub Experience Craft Beer Tour

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