Culinary Delights
Machu Picchu is not only a historical wonder but also a destination with diverse and delightful dining options.
From gourmet restaurants to street food vendors, the area offers a rich culinary experience.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best dining and cuisine in Machu Picchu.
Types of Dining Options
- Best Restaurants
- Traditional Peruvian Dishes
- Street Food
- Dining with a View
- Vegan and Vegetarian Options
Best Restaurants Machu Picchu boasts a range of top-notch restaurants that cater to all tastes. These dining spots offer gourmet dishes, traditional Peruvian cuisine, and international flavors.
Top Restaurants in Machu Picchu
- Tinkuy Restaurant
- Tree House Restaurant
- Indio Feliz Bistro
- Cafe Inkaterra
- Toto’s House
| Restaurant | Location | Cuisine | Price Range | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tinkuy Restaurant | Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, Machu Picchu | Peruvian, International | $$$$ | Gourmet dining, panoramic views |
| Tree House Restaurant | Aguas Calientes | Fusion | $$$ | Unique setting, diverse menu |
| Indio Feliz Bistro | Aguas Calientes | French-Peruvian | $$$ | Cozy atmosphere, creative dishes |
| Cafe Inkaterra | Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel | Peruvian | $$$ | Eco-friendly, fresh ingredients |
| Toto’s House | Aguas Calientes | Peruvian | $$ | Traditional dishes, live music |
“Food is the ingredient that binds us together.” – Unknown
Traditional Peruvian Dishes
Description: Peruvian cuisine is renowned for its diversity and rich flavors. When visiting Machu Picchu, indulging in traditional Peruvian dishes is a must.
Top Traditional Dishes:
- Ceviche: Fresh fish marinated in lime juice with onions, cilantro, and aji pepper.
- Lomo Saltado: Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and soy sauce.
- Aji de Gallina: Creamy chicken stew with aji amarillo, bread, and milk.
- Cuy (Guinea Pig): Roasted or fried guinea pig.
- Rocoto Relleno: Spicy rocoto peppers stuffed with ground meat and cheese.
- Papa a la Huancaína: Sliced potatoes topped with a spicy cheese sauce.
- Anticuchos: Grilled meat skewers, traditionally made with beef heart.
- Pachamanca: Meat and vegetables cooked in an underground oven.
Where to Try:
- Tinkuy Restaurant: For gourmet dining and traditional dishes.
- Indio Feliz Bistro: For creative French-Peruvian fusion dishes.
- Toto’s House: For authentic Peruvian cuisine with live music.
Street Food
Description: Street food is an integral part of Peruvian culture, offering a taste of local flavors and culinary traditions. Sampling street food in Aguas Calientes is a must.
Top Street Foods:
- Anticuchos: Grilled meat skewers.
- Empanadas: Stuffed pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
- Tamales: Corn dough filled with meat or cheese, wrapped in corn husks, and steamed.
- Churros: Deep-fried dough pastries rolled in sugar and cinnamon.
- Choclo con Queso: Large corn on the cob served with a slice of cheese.
- Salchipapas: A dish of fried sausages and potatoes, often topped with sauces.
- Picarones: Sweet potato and squash doughnuts, deep-fried and drizzled with syrup.
- Causa Rellena: Layered potato dish filled with chicken, avocado, and lime.
Where to Try:
- Street Vendors: For authentic and affordable local snacks.
- Market Stalls: For a variety of street food options.
Dining with a View
Description: Dining with a view in Machu Picchu adds an extra layer of magic to your culinary experience. The stunning landscapes provide a breathtaking backdrop for your meals.
Top Scenic Restaurants:
- Tampu Restaurant: Located at the Sanctuary Lodge, offers panoramic views of Machu Picchu.
- The Sanctuary Lodge Restaurant: Offers luxurious dining with stunning views of the ruins.
- Indio Feliz Bistro: Offers beautiful mountain views.
- Tree House Restaurant: Offers treetop views.
- Cafe Inkaterra: Offers garden views.
Tips for Dining with a View:
- Make Reservations: Scenic restaurants can fill up quickly, so book in advance.
- Dine at Sunset: Enjoy the changing colors of the sky and the beautiful evening light.
- Choose Outdoor Seating: If available, opt for outdoor seating to fully appreciate the stunning views.
Vegan and Vegetarian Options
Description: Machu Picchu offers a variety of plant-based dishes that showcase the rich flavors of Peruvian cuisine. There are several restaurants that cater specifically to vegan and vegetarian diets.
Top Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants:
- Green House Restaurant: Offers a wide range of plant-based dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Full House Peruvian Cuisine: Provides an extensive menu with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options.
- The Tree House Restaurant: Offers creative plant-based dishes that combine Peruvian and international flavors.
- Cafe Inkaterra: Focuses on garden-to-table dining with a variety of vegan and vegetarian options.
- Indio Feliz Bistro: Offers several vegetarian-friendly options with a cozy atmosphere.
Top Vegan and Vegetarian Dishes:
- Quinoa Salad: A healthy and refreshing option made with locally sourced quinoa.
- Vegan Ceviche: A plant-based version of the traditional dish made with mushrooms or palm hearts.
- Stuffed Peppers: Filled with quinoa, vegetables, and spices.
- Vegan Lomo Saltado: A plant-based version of the popular stir-fried beef dish.
- Vegetable Stir-Fry: Made with fresh, local vegetables and served with rice.
- Vegan Pizza: Made with a variety of fresh, local toppings.
- Stuffed Avocado: Filled with quinoa, vegetables, and a tangy lime dressing.
- Grilled Vegetables: A simple yet flavorful option made with locally sourced produce.
Dining and Cuisine in Machu Picchu
Ready to indulge in the culinary delights of Machu Picchu? Plan your dining experiences today and make reservations at these top restaurants. Visit our website for more information on menus, reviews, and exclusive dining offers.
Machu Picchu offers a rich and diverse culinary experience that complements your visit to this iconic destination. From gourmet restaurants to street food vendors, there are plenty of options to suit all tastes. Book your dining reservations today and savor the flavors of Machu Picchu.