Are you a foodie? Do you love to eat and experience new taste sensations every time you travel? Many people do it, and now Peru is one of the world’s main gastronomic destinations. And with three restaurants in the top 50 in the world, Lima is considered the ideal place to try Peruvian cuisine. Especially if you want to experience five-star cuisine, and not only in Peru but also in South America.
However, Lima is not the only place to discover delicious food during your trip to Peru; Arequipa is also becoming a gastronomic destination. In the white city, the typical restaurants of Arequipa are known as Picanterias. Here you will find all the local specialties to try, but keep in mind that the sizes of the plates are large, so go with a lot of appetite. For this and much more, Machu Travel Peru will give you some suggestions on the best dishes of Arequipa that you should not miss on your trip.
Some of the best dishes of Arequipa
- Test the Stuffed Rocoto
- Experiencing the Ocopa
- Enjoy the Adobo
- Help yourself to the Chairo soup
- Appreciate the Chupe de Camarones
- Delight yourself with the delicious Cuy
- Sweeten yourself with the Queso Helado
- Don’t forget the drinks of Arequipa
- Where to enjoy the best dishes
- Tips for tasting Arequipa’s cuisine
- Frequently questions
Test the stuffed Rocoto
If you are going to be part of a walking tour in Arequipa, you will most likely hear about Rocoto Relleno. Rocoto Relleno is considered the star dish in Arequipa. It is made with red bell peppers that are cleaned, and the seeds are removed.
The bell pepper is then stuffed with minced meat, peanuts, boiled eggs, olives, cream cheese, and milk, and baked in the oven. When chefs prepare it, they usually serve it with potatoes. This is one of the best dishes in Arequipa and a dish that you cannot overlook. The dish is somewhat spicy, but when cooked in water and vinegar, it loses a bit of its characteristic heat.
Experiencing the Ocopa
Ocopa, this dish is usually served as an appetizer sauce on boiled potatoes. Normally, the potatoes are covered with a cream-based on yellow chili, onion, garlic, cream cheese, and a spice called Huacatay. All the ingredients are blended with dry bread, giving shape to this incredible and unique Arequipa sauce. Usually, the most popular dish that Ocopa carries is also served with boiled eggs, olives, and lettuce.
This is one of the best breakfasts before leaving for a Colca Canyon Tour. One of the delights that you cannot miss on your next trip to the “White City”.
Enjoy the adobo
No trip to Arequipa would be complete without trying the traditional soup known as Adobo. This soup is served throughout Peru but is best prepared in Arequipa. It has pieces of pork marinated in chicha (an ancient Inca beer) to later be cooked with vinegar, hot peppers, and spices.
Regularly, cooks prepare this dish in a clay pot that enhances the flavor. It is served with bread to accompany and push the different pieces of meat. This soup is traditionally served in the morning for breakfast. A good option before leaving to visit the beautiful tourist Attractions in Arequipa.
Help yourself to the Chairo soup
Another soup to try and mention that may not be to everyone’s liking is Chairo’s soup. One of the best options to enjoy after visiting the many museums in Arequipa.
This soup consists of beef broth, yellow bell peppers, garlic, onion, spices, black potatoes, and toasted corn. The taste is different from other soups, but it is worth a try. This traditional soup could be considered a mandatory dish to try among the different dishes of Arequipa.
Appreciate the Chupe de Camarones
Before staying at the various hotels in Arequipa, it is a good option to try one of the most delicious delicacies. The wonderful and delicious Chupe de Camarones is a must-try when visiting Arequipa.
This incredible stew is a mixture of shrimp, dried red chili peppers, eggs, yellow potatoes, rice, fresh cheese, and milk. It is generally served in large portions, so it is better that you come prepared. The dish can be found throughout the region and is one of the typical dishes of Arequipa.
Delight yourself with the delicious cuy
If you can beat the different dishes of Arequipa that you are eating, then you have to try the Cuy. Cuy is a traditional dish in Peru that is usually served on special occasions, such as national or religious holidays. It is generally prepared fried, although some also dedicate it to be roasted.
This dish is served with corn, potatoes, and a salad consisting of mint and onion. Many times it can be a somewhat peculiar dish, especially if it is served complete. Being able to taste the Cuy is, without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Arequipa. If you are a foodie, you will love it, because it is part of our cultural gastronomic identity.
Sweeten yourself with the Queso Helado
Arequipa is also home to some of the best desserts that you must try. Among the most famous offerings in Arequipa, you can find Queso Helado, or frozen cheese in English.
This recipe uses evaporated milk, condensed milk, vanilla, and sugar. Something like ice cream, it is sold on street corners and in restaurants, very refreshing on a hot day. One of the most delicious delicacies to try after enjoying the different dishes of Arequipa.
Don’t forget the drinks of Arequipa
Food is not the only thing that abounds in the White City; Peruvian drinks and cocktails are also worth trying. What better way to try some drinks after visiting the different tourist attractions in Arequipa? Try the beer in Arequipa, some say it is the best in Peru. No visit to Peru is complete without first trying the famous Pisco Sour, the country’s most emblematic drink.
There is also the Anis Najar that must be drunk after to settle the meal. Anis Najar is a form of anisette (an anise-flavored liqueur) that is made in Arequipa. Arequipa is also famous for its delicious chocolate, thanks to the La Ibérica factory that produces many incredible bites to try.
Where to enjoy the best dishes
Arequipa’s food culture is a mix of tradition, innovation, and a combination of Peruvian superfoods, and you can taste it everywherefrom rustic picanterías to fine-dining restaurants and bustling local markets. Here are some of the top places to enjoy:
1) La Nueva Palomino
The most iconic picantería in Arequipa, perfect for trying rocoto relleno, pastel de papa, and adobo arequipeño.
2) Sol de Mayo
One of the city’s oldest picanterías, famous for its festive garden patio and authentic flavors.
3) La Benita de los Claustros
A charming restaurant located in the historic cloisters, serving traditional Arequipeño dishes in a colonial setting.
4) Circa 1930
A stylish venue where tradition meets contemporary dining, ideal for those who want a gourmet twist.
5) Zig Zag Restaurant
Known for its volcanic stone-cooked meats and a unique blend of Andean and European influences, right in the heart of the city.
6) Chicha por Gaston Acurio
A modern restaurant where Peru’s most famous chef reinterprets local recipes.
7) La Trattoria del Monasterio
Created by Mercedes Medina, offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes with an Arequipeño soul.
8) 13 Monjas Mumis
An innovative spot where classic flavors meet creative, playful presentations.
9) Las Gringas Pizza
A casual favorite in the San Lázaro district, serving artisanal pizzas with fresh local products.
Tips for tasting Arequipa’s cuisine
- Start your day early: Traditional Adobo Arequipeño is typically enjoyed on Sunday mornings.
- Don’t fear the spice: Rocoto relleno can be very hot, but you can ask for a milder version.
- Pair with local drinks: Try chicha de jora (fermented corn beer), kola escocesa, or anisado for a true Arequipeño touch.
- Mix experiences: Visit a rustic picantería like La Nueva Palomino or Sol de Mayo for authenticity, and then explore gourmet spots like Zig Zag, Chicha, or Circa for modern twists.
- Go casual too: Places like Las Gringas Pizza or 13 Monjas Mumis show the fun, modern side of the city’s gastronomy.
- Don’t skip dessert: Treat yourself to queso helado, the city’s iconic frozen dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most famous dish in Arequipa?
The rocoto relleno, a spicy stuffed pepper, is considered the city’s culinary symbol and is part of the identity of biodiversity in Peru. You need to try it on your next visit!
Is Arequipa’s food very spicy?
Some dishes, like rocoto relleno, can be spicy, but many, such as pastel de papa, ocopa, or chupe de camarones, are mild and flavorful.
Where can I try authentic food?
Head to picanterías like La Nueva Palomino, Sol de Mayo, or La Benita de los Claustros. For a local vibe, don’t miss the San Camilo Market.
Are there vegetarian options in Arequipa’s cuisine?
Yes dishes like ocopa arequipeña, soltero de queso, pastel de papa, and queso helado are vegetarian-friendly. Restaurants like Las Gringas Pizza also offer great meat-free choices.
Can I find fine dining in Arequipa?
Definitely. Restaurants such as Zig Zag, Chicha, Circa, and La Trattoria del Monasterio bring a gourmet touch to traditional flavors.
“TRAVELING IS FOOD FOR THE SOUL”
Peru has so much to offer, it can be hard to know where to start. With many years of experience in the tourism sector, Machu Travel Peru is happy to help with anything regarding your trip to Machu Picchu and any tours around it. Make your Machu Picchu experience an unforgettable one! Contact Us today to plan your dream adventure
