South America is home to many countries, iconic for their natural, historical, and cultural attractions. Gastronomy is no exception, as you’ll find a diverse and astonishing culinary panorama. When discussing these delicacies, it’s inevitable to mention Peru, a world-renowned country famous for its incredible culinary combinations. Moreover, the delectable cuisine mirrors the stunning natural variety and vast imaginative prowess.
From the coast to the jungle and mountains, each region offers tourists a diverse range of culinary delights. As people increasingly seek new hobbies and lifestyles, the range of choices in the Andean nation has expanded. Notably, vegan eateries in Peru have assumed a distinctive position in recent times. Therefore, the Machu Travel Peru team wants to share everything about this growing aspect of Peruvian food.
Discover the vegan world this fascinating Andean country has to offer
Peruvian vegan panorama
To talk about the vegan scene is to recall Peru’s exciting biodiversity and its incredible variety of products. This country offers the best conditions for different types of culinary adventures. From dishes that contribute to sustainability to those that capture the deepest of its culture, you will find whatever. Below, we present some of the main reasons why we affirm this.
- Peru is the country with the greatest diversity of potatoes in the world, with an estimated 4,000 varieties. This is one of this country’s flagship products and one of the main products used in its delicious dishes.
- Its great diversity of fruits also reflects its magnificent variety of flavors. Beyond conventional fruits like bananas, peaches, and strawberries, you can find exotic fruits. Among the most notable are lucuma, custard apple, capulí, and camu camu.
- Another hallmark of this country is its large quantity of cereals, another star product considered a superfood. The grains are renowned for their health benefits and importance in Peruvian cuisine. Among them, we can mention quinoa, kiwicha, cañihua, tarwi, and many others.
- As if that weren’t enough, Peru boasts a wide variety of legumes, cultivated in different regions of the country. Furthermore, the production of native species such as beans and lima beans notably complements this beautiful panorama.
Food destinations
Considering the stunning panorama, every area in Peru presents a range of vegan choices, each with its unique style. While the coast offers lighter fare, the Andes offer more hearty dishes. Likewise, the jungle offers dishes based on fruits like plantains and local vegetables. Therefore, we present some of the top food destinations you should visit in Peru.
Lima
The capital of Peru, Lima, is Peru’s main gastronomic destination and the best city to try delicious dishes. Here you can enjoy gastronomic tours in its main districts, such as Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro. Naturally, all the restaurants respect classic plant-based flavors and offer many vegan options. Below are some of the most notable options you should visit:
- Asian: This is an incredible Peruvian restaurant serving Japanese and Peruvian fusion food. Although its menu is entirely vegetarian, it has good vegan options. Additionally, the gluten-free options are a favorite among its customers. Despite an extensive menu, the Causa Furai and Chilcano Nikkei come highly recommended.
- Seitán Urban Bistro: Its menu is primarily based on Peruvian cuisine and offers many options. With a warm and comfortable atmosphere, this experience is completely worth it. However, we recommend trying its vegan pisco sour version without egg whites.
- La Recontra: With a multi-restaurant concept, this unique place offers a wide range of options. In this area, you’ll discover numerous welcoming eateries, with La Recontra/Oiga being particularly noteworthy. This establishment focuses on plant-based cuisine, serving classic dishes like vegan burgers, anticuchos, and chicharrones.
- Sabor y Vida: This friendly restaurant features an extensive selection of plant-based dishes. With two soup selections, main courses, a beverage, and a light dessert, it promises to please. Although the restaurant is not exclusively vegan, it offers delicious and memorable alternatives.
- Namaste: With an award for Best Vegan Restaurant in 2023, this place offers truly exceptional food. Its intense flavors, twists on dishes, and unique atmosphere make this place a must-see on various gastronomic tours.
Cusco
Cusco is the imperial city and the gateway to the imposing Machu Picchu, the famous world wonder. This beautiful destination welcomes thousands of tourists each year, each with unique habits and tastes. Therefore, it’s not unusual to find places that offer a variety of options and unique alternatives. Below are some of the most notable options in this iconic location:
- Green Point: When we discuss vegetarian restaurants in Cusco, we must mention it for its iconic traditional approach. This is currently a benchmark of Cusco vegan cuisine, offering à la carte dishes and full menus. Its excellent reviews also make it a must-see on your visit to Cusco.
- Organika: This restaurant is located among the cobblestone alleys near Cusco’s Plaza de Armas. Famous for its use of local ingredients, exquisite flavors, and quality dishes, it will offer you quality service. Their desserts, pizzas, and main courses are a sensation for tourists and locals alike, who flock to this place.
- Chia Vegan Kitchen: Located in the center of Cusco, this eatery is renowned for its innovative vegan cuisine. Its happy-hour food, great cocktails, and vegan options are its main features, which you can enjoy during your visit.
- Prasada the Vegan Temple: Near the historic center, specifically in San Blas, you can enjoy healthy vegan-conscious food. Specializing in burgers, sandwiches, falafel, and much more, they offer excellent combinations in addition to an incredible atmosphere. Their most recommended option is the vegetarian burger, a must-try.
Arequipa
The White City is Peru’s second-largest metropolis and home to great dishes. Its exciting culture, pleasant climate, and friendly people provide a unique atmosphere for enjoying its cuisine. The most popular spots are the picanterias, popular places that offer local cuisine. However, you’ll also find charming restaurants that will leave you impressed.
- Omphalos: Especially for those on a budget, this restaurant offers exciting vegan options. Its expectations are standard, but its flavors are above average. From main courses and appetizers to cocktails, you’ll find many enjoyable options.
- Prana Vegan: Although not exclusively vegan, this place offers a delicious and extensive menu. Likewise, it’s great music, friendly atmosphere, and affordable prices are the perfect combination for any vegan. Furthermore, its generous portions will leave you satisfied on every visit.
Top dishes
Like the enormous variety of restaurants, Peru offers a wide range of delicious and exquisite Peruvian superfoods. This endless variety provides a unique experience to enjoy, full of flavors, textures, and colors. Without any distinction, you can taste or even try preparing some of the best vegan Peruvian dishes. Therefore, below are some that you’re sure to love:
- Heart of Palm Ceviche: Ceviche is Peru’s most famous dish, loved for its bold and fresh flavors. While the classic version uses fish, this vegan twist swaps it for hearts of palm, a plant from the Amazon. The preparation stays the same without the seafood.
- Vegan Quinoa Chaufa: Peruvian fusion dishes are brimming with surprises, with chaufa rice being a prime example. Inspired by Chinese fried rice, cooks usually make it with white rice. In this vegan version, quinoa and other grains replace rice, offering a healthy and tasty twist.
- Lomo Saltado: Lomo Saltado is another dish with Asian roots, traditionally made with beef. This vegetarian alternative utilizes shiitake mushrooms in place of meat. They need some prep, but the rich flavor and texture make it worth it.
- Vegan Causa: Causa Limeña is a coastal favorite made with layers of mashed potato and filling. Typically stuffed with chicken or tuna, our plant-based alternative includes fresh vegetables such as onion, tomato, and avocado. Similarly, it’s straightforward, vibrant, flavorful, and thoroughly delightful.
Frequently asked questions
Is it difficult to be vegan in Peru?
The biodiversity in Peru offers numerous vegan and vegetarian options, making it easy to be vegan in this country. However, in remote areas, you may find limited options. Therefore, we recommend planning, especially based on the destinations you will be visiting.
What to consider when going vegan in Peru?
The best advice for preparing for a vegan trip is to familiarize yourself with Peruvian cuisine. Likewise, learn some basic Spanish phrases would be perfect, especially in remote places. Researching the Peruvian way of life will help you enjoy this country to the fullest.
Are there vegan-friendly lodgings in Peru?
In major Peruvian tourist spots, you can discover entirely vegan accommodations. Nonetheless, it’s important to notify the staff about your dietary preferences in advance so they can accommodate them.
Will I be able to find vegan street food in Peru?
No, it is not common to find vegan food in street stalls, markets, or commercial spaces. Restaurants are the preferred option for sampling and tasting this. We also recommend places like Lima or Cusco to experience the magnificent Peruvian cuisine.
“IT’S NOT BAD TO LOOK FOR OTHER OPTIONS, THE BAD THING IS NOT ACCEPTING THEM”
You should experience the thrilling flavors of Peruvian cuisine at least once in your lifetime. Wherever you go, don’t miss the opportunity to try its delicious food, whether with or without meat. The Machu Travel Peru team hopes to have given you a glimpse into Peru’s beautiful vegan scene and its restaurants. Remember, this is just a glimpse into what this destination has to offer; for more information, contact our advisors.
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!
