Peruvian gastronomy has come to the forefront on the culinary scene and has gained recognition on a worldwide basis. In the city of Lima, you can eat like a king and across the country, talented chefs have become very creative, and this is also true when it comes to the restaurants in Sacred Valley. International cuisine is fused with a variety of local products, such as alpaca and Guinea Pig, different types of beans, corn, and of course, potatoes, as well as native herbs such as huacatay and muña. The dining options in the Sacred Valley have increased over the last few years and so has the list of must-try restaurants in the Ollantaytambo, Urubamba, and Pisaq. Here are some suggestions for recommended restaurants in The Sacred Valley, when planning a trip to Peru.
El Huacatay
One of the best restaurants in the Cusco region was serving Peruvian fusion before it became popular, combining flavours in a way that each one can be savoured and combined as a complimentary taste explosion Take your time to decide between all the enticing options on the menu. The cuts of meat are amazingly tender, and there are some interesting vegetarian options, not to mention an array of delicious appetizers that will tempt you to just order an entrée or if you are traveling to Machu Picchu with kids, Huacatay is an excellent option for all your dining needs.
MIL Centro
World-renowned chef Virgilio Martinez of Central fame, came to The Sacred Valley with an innovative restaurant that allows you to sample Andean culture in an a deliciously unique way. Locally grown products that have been used in the Andes mountains for thousands of years are crafted into gourmet dishes that should be on any Peru culinary vacation. Be sure to opt for the pairing option, with or without alcohol.
Chuncho
An idea from someone born and bred in Ollantaytambo has resulted in a must-visit restaurant experience. This special treat allows you to savour traditional ancestral foods made with the freshest of local ingredients and prepared to appeal to the foreign palate. The all-wood décor offers a warm and rustic yet chic atmosphere, with Peruvian accents sprinkled throughout. If you like cocktails, you must try one using Destilería Andina’s artisanal brews produced, like Chuncho, by the El Albergue family. Ollantaytambo is the stop off where you catch the train to Machu Picchu in most travel packages to Peru, so make sure you stop off and try the Chuncho restaurant!
Alma Bar Restaurant
Alma is located in the Hotel Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado Hotel & Villas, in Urubamba. This spacious restaurant knows how to combine the modern atmosphere and the Andean style. The floor-to-ceiling windows will allow you to enjoy views of the mountains and gardens during the day while enjoying the taste of a Pisco Sour. During the evening, enjoy the folkloric sounds of Andean music. Andean flute players, singers and even a blind harpist will give the place a Peruvian atmosphere. Meals include classic Peruvian dishes such as lomo saltado and ají de gallina, as well as offering various international dining options. On your trip to Peru, make sure you try the dishes that include trout, ravioli, and salads. Smoked trout and cheese tequeños are simply the best appetizer to share with friends.
Cervecería del Valle Sagrado
Beer is food, isn’t it? The Sacred Valley brewery is not a restaurant, but rather a brewery where you can complement your craft beer with a bite to eat. There are a number of beers on tap although you can also order the homemade soft drinks as well. Roja con Ayrampo and Dali and Chocolate Factory (made with cocoa paste) are just some of the brews, which are constantly changing at this Sacred Valley brewery. Ask your driver to stop or a quick pint if you are on a customized Peru trip, you won´t regret it!
Wayra Restaurant at Hotel Sol y Luna
Hotel Sol y Luna, one of only a handful of Relais & Chateaux properties in Peru, has two restaurants run by chefs who were trained by Peruvian celebrity chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino of the acclaimed Malabar restaurant in Lima. Most Peru luxury tours pass by this establishment and Wayra offers Peruvian favourites including the incredible Pachamanca (meat and vegetables cooked underground).
Alhambra
The buffet restaurants of the Sacred Valley have reinvented themselves to offer a unique gastronomic experience, while also innovating with national and international flavours. Alhambra is one of those buffet restaurants with an extensive selection of Andean and international dishes, a wide range of flavours intended to please everyone’s palates. Most Machu Picchu tours will enjoy a stop off at Alhambra to sample some local cuisine and Sacred Valley delights.
Tawa in Yucay
The town of Yucay got its first serious restaurant in 2016 when Milagros and Rene Rodriquez opened Tawa on Manco II Plaza. The Peruvian couple has spent decades working in restaurants (including the restaurant at the Sol y Luna hotel, see above) and they brought all of that experience to Tawa. The couple spent two years developing the menu before opening Tawa which means four in the Quechua language–a nod to the number of members of their family.
Ulrikes Cafe
Run by a German expat, Ulrikes cafe has to be the pick of the bunch for Pisaq. The funky cafe has everything from breakfasts to hearty lunches and vegetarian options, such as homemade lasagna, omelettes, salads, and great desserts such as Ulrike’s famous strudel or a number of different delectable cheesecakes. So, give Ulrikes a visit if you pass through Pisaq on your holidays in Peru.
Ask us here for more dining recommendations to in The Sacred Valley of The Incas !