La Cau Cau Picanteria is a popular place to eat lunch in Arequipa Peru with an outdoor patio
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18 of the Best Arequipa Restaurants | Where to Eat & Drink in Peru’s White City + Food Tours

Arequipa Peru is Peru’s second largest city and due to the buildings made of white sillar volcanic rocks, it is also known as “Peru’s White City.” What visitors may not know is that the region of Arequipa has its own typical cuisine and should be on every “foodie’s radar.” There are plenty of top Arequipa restaurants to sample over 500 typical dishes, a bustling local market, and trendy modern restaurants.

In Arequipa, find an “up and coming” coffee culture, vegan hideaways, and some scrumptious bakeries. Take the chance to nibble on artisanal chocolate or sample local ice cream. Grab a cocktail at sunset, try a local microbrewer sip, and maybe even sample some Peruvian wine. The Arequipa food scene brings so much to the food table, literally.

On top of the best places to eat in Arequipa, it would be unfortunate to depart the city without grabbing at least one meal from a Picantería. These popular lunchtime Arequipa restaurants and serve up the typical dishes, which are a unique fusion of Inca and Spanish cuisine.

One of the best things to do in Arequipa is to simply eat and experience as much of the food culture as you possibly can. Come hungry and you will most definitely leave happy.

a typical lunch plate from Arequipa Restaurant
Typical cuisine in Arequipa often includes potatoes, cheese, olives, tomatoes, and fava beans

Here’s a guide to some of the best Arequipa restaurants and what to eat in this culturally rich city in Peru.

Table of Contents

Arequipa Coffeeshops

From roasters to rooftops, here are three great Arequipa coffeeshops to try.

1 | Kafi Wasi Coffee House

Kafi Wasi Coffee House is one of the top rated Arequipa restaurants for breakfast and has some seriously amazing coffee. Kafi Wasi is all about educating and preserving the coffee culture.

Savor a specialty coffee in the cute cafe or on the outdoor terrace. Bonus, this is one of the Arequipa coffeeshops that is open on Sunday and has excellent Wi-Fi.

Find them here: Calle Pte. Bolognesi 216, ArequipaHours: Monday – Saturday: 9:00 – 20:30 / Sundays: 8:00 -13:00 | Facebook Page: Kafi Wasi Coffee House

2 | Palacios Coffee

Enjoying a coffee from Palacios Coffee Arequipa
Palacios Coffee is a top rated Arequipa coffee shop

Palacios Coffee is a coffee lover’s dream come true. This Arequipa coffeeshop is a little out of the Historic Center of Arequipa, but worth the walk. The main highlight of this coffeeshop is on the perfect coffee bean. First, choose a roast. Next, the brewing method.

Palacios takes their coffee serious, but without that pretentious coffee-snob vibe.

Don’t know which bean to choose? The lovely staff offers a nose full of free smells to help pair you with the perfect blend. Brewing options include: the Moka pot, french press, even a Turkish cezve.

On the second floor, enjoy homemade baked goodies with the perfect cup of coffee.

Find them here: Av. Lima 201 – Vallecito – Arequipa | Hours: Monday – Saturday: 8:00 – 20:30 | Facebook Page: Palacios Coffee

3 | Coffee Roaster – Kaffeehaus

Kaffeehaus is another coffee roaster in Arequipa and has both Peruvian and German foundations. Kaffeehaus boasts top-notch roasting equipment and works with Peruvian coffee beans.

Make sure to check out the lovely outdoor “biergarten.” Breakfast is available.

Find them here: Melgar 117 ArequipaHours: Monday – Saturday: 7:30 – 20:00, Saturdays opens at 8:00 | Facebook Page: Kaffeehaus Café Tostaduría

4 | Mercado San Camilo

The juice aisle in San Camino Market in Arequipa

If not a coffee drinker, head over to the bustling Mercado San Camilo for a fresh squeezed juice. Do as the locals do and grab a bowl of soup or typical plate of food for breakfast.

Find Mercado San Camilo here: 487, C. Piérola 407 ArequipaHours: Daily: 6:00 – 19:00

Arequipa Restaurants for Lunch & Typical Cuisine

At lunch time, look for Arequipa restaurants serving up a daily lunch menu, or menu del dia. Lunch menus usually come with a starter, main, basic drink, and sometimes even a desert. Although budget friendly, these meals are filling and delicious.

Make sure to try the typical food of the region at a Picantería. These local establishments are typically only open during lunchtime hours.

5 | Prana Vegan Rest-Ecobar

Prana Vegan Rest-Ecobar, modern food in Arequipa, plate, table, tea, vegan food in Arequipa, cucumbers, tomato, salad, potato, olives, courtyard
A full spread of vegan food at Prana Vegan Club

The lunch menu at Prana Vegan Club is an absolute must. The 10 Sole ($2.50 USD) menu was incredible. With rich flavors that are light and tasty, the menu includes a drink, starter, main, dessert, and “help yourself” simple, but fresh salad bar.

The food at Prana is some of the best vegan food in Peru. The meal is hearty and delicious, it’s easy to forget there is no meat.

Prana is one of the best restaurants in Arequipa and will satisfy both vegans and carnivores alike.

Find them here: C. Ugarte 109 CercadoHours: Monday – Saturday: 10:00 – 21:00 | Facebook Page: Prana Vegan Club

6 | Arequipas Best Restaurants Picanterias

Americano plate of food from La Capitana Picanteria
A plateful of typical food served up at Picantería La Capitana.

Picanterías are traditional lunchtime restaurants in Arequipa and serve up typical regional dishes of Arequipa. The food is unique and some of the most flavorful in Peru and there are over 500 dishes to choose from!

In fact, Arequipa is an up and coming culinary destination in Peru simply for the food.

Top Dishes to Eat in Arequipa Picanterias

While cuy is served many places in Ecuador and Peru, in Arequipa it is served very differently (Cuy Chactado)
  • Cuy, or guinea pig, is cooked differently in Arequipa than it is in other places like Lima or Cusco. In Arequipa it is served in a manner called Cuy Chactado. The guinea pig is served flat here based on Incan traditions when the rodent was cooked between two hot stones.
  • Rocoto Relleno is the signature spicy stuffed pepper of Arequipa usually accompanied with the rich and delicious potato side dish, Pastel de Papa
  • Adobo is a typical pork stew that originated from Arequipa
  • Soltero de Queso is a cold salad with cheese, olives, tomatoes, fava beans, and is the ultimate vegetarian dish of Arequipa

Detailed Arequipa Food Travel Guide | 10 Must Try Typical Dishes in Arequipa Peru

Best Picanterias in Arequipa

7 | Plaza de Cayma

The Plaza de Cayma in Arequipa is one of the best things to do with it's beautiful church, green square, and local Arequipa restaurants
The Plaza de Cayma has some of the best local Arequipa Restaurants serving Adobo

The Cayma District of Arequipa is not only one the best places to visit in the city, but the entire main Plaza is lined with local little food joints serving up Adobo, or a delicious pork stew. Adobo is a typical dish of Arequipa, and actually originates from the Cayma District in Arequipa!

Adobo is actually a popular hang-over remedy, so the best time to visit the Plaza de Cayma is bright and early on a Sunday morning. (Seriously, think around 5 a.m. until 7 a.m.). Adobo is usually a dish that is always served on Sunday. At dawn, these local Arequipa restaurants are so busy that people usually over flow and sit in the Plaza.

Arequipa Restaurants NOT Serving Typical Food

landmarks in Arequipa, Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa, sky, clouds, things to do in Arequipa peru
The Arequipa Cathedral in the Plaza de Armas is surrounded by many Arequipa Restaurants

Looking for some fun and exciting places to try out Arequipa’s diverse food scene? These places are great if you’ve been traveling through Peru for a while and looking to switch traditional dishes for something more modern and unique!

8 | Las Gringas

Las Gringas is the place to eat handmade pizzas fresh from the wood-fired oven. While you can find typical pizzas here, why not try the Peruvian inspired pizzas that are topped with Quinoa, Aguaymanto (Inca berries), Purple corn, and local Andean cheese.

On top of pizza, find salads, sandwiches, pastas, and even a daily brunch menu.

Las Gringas also boasts a diverse craft beer menu.

This Arequipa restaurant is super popular, so be mindful that service can be a bit slow.

Find them here: Santa Catalina 204, Cercado De Arequipa PeruHours: Daily, 10:30 – 23:30, Sundays close at 23:00 | Facebook Page: Las Gringas

9 | Pasta Canteen

Pasta Canteen, salad in a jar, wine, table, modern food in Arequipa
Pasta Canteen serves up their house salads in a fun way

Pasta Canteen is a corner establishment serving up simple and delicious pastas. The interior is cozy and the upstairs has a cool little loft section, perfect for solo travelers. There’s a daily pasta feature that comes with a salad in a jar and freshly baked bread for 20 PEN ($6 USD).

There’s also the option to create your own pasta. Pick from different noodles, sauces, and fresh ingredients.

Find them here: C. Puente Grau 300Hours: Daily, 12:30 – 21:30 | Facebook Page: Pasta Canteen

10 | Kao Thai and Peruvian Cuisine

Kao Thai puts a totally unique spin on Peruvian food and mixes it with Thai cuisine. In Peru, it’s more typical to find Chifa, which is a fusion of Chinese and Peruvian cuisine.

Kao Thai has everything from ceviche, curries, and pad Thai.

Find them here: Calle Bolivar 415, Cercado, ArequipaHours: Monday – Saturday, 12:00 – 22:00 | Facebook Page: Kao Thai Arequipa

Arequipa Restaurants for Sweet Treats

Satisfy any sweet-tooth craving by stopping in a delicious bakery or an artisanal chocolate shop.

11 | Masamama Café

Masamama Cafe is probably one of the best bakeries in Arequipa. Find homemade bread, croissants, pastries, brownies, and so much more.

Find them here: Los Cristales 102 ArequipaHours: Monday, 14:30 – 21:30 / Tues – Sat, 8:00 – 21:30 / Sunday, 8:30 – 15:30 | Facebook Page: Masamama

Psst… They also have another Bakery & Mill location

12 | Queso Helado

A woman scoops out a serving of Queso Helado, a typical ice cream found in Arequipa
Waiting for a Queso Helado

Queso Helado is the artisanal typical ice cream from Arequipa, and although it translates as “iced cheese,” there is no cheese in this sweet treat. This ice cream is made from milk, condensed milk, coconut, and spices. There is always a garnish of cinnamon sprinkles.

The best place to eat Queso Helado is on the streets. Many women set up stalls and sell the local ice cream. Sometimes, the women set up next to or inside the courtyards of Picanterias.

13 | Chaqchao Organic Chocolates

Stop in for a handmade chocolate bar and witness the production happening before your eyes. Chaqchao Organic Chocolates is a shop that is fueling locally sourced Peruvian chocolate farmers. Not only can you find chocolate bars, but chocolate cakes, hot chocolates, and other chocolate based items.

Sign-up for the Chaqchao chocolate workshop that runs daily

Find them here: Calle Santa Catalina 204 ArequipaHours: Daily, 10:00 – 23:30 | Facebook Page: Chaqchao Organic Chocolates

Where to Drink in Arequipa | Cocktails & Night Caps

a beer in the lively decorated Chelawasi Public house, a microbrewery in Arequipa
Inside the Arequipa microbrewery Chelawasi

While the food in Arequipa is top-notch, the city also has a spirited nightlife. There’s a range of Arequipa restaurants for sipping on a sunset cocktail or dancing the night away.

14 | Sunset Rooftop Bar

Sunset from the Sunset Rooftop bar Arequipa restaurant
Watch the sky turn colors at the Sunset Rooftop Bar in Arequipa

The Sunset Rooftop Bar has two different leveled terraces to enjoy those epic volcanic dotted sunsets of Arequipa. This rooftop gem plays up chill music, boasts almost 360° views, and pours up an extensive cocktail menu. Try the beloved Pisco Sour.

For these stunning Arequipa rooftop views, the prices are just right.

Find them here: Inside of Le Foyer Hostel Arequipa on the 4th floor @ Calle Ugrte 114, ArequipaHours: Monday – Saturday, 9:00 – 22:00 / Sundays: 13:00 – 20:00 | Facebook Page: Sunset Rooftop Bar

15 | Chelawasi Pubic House

The Chelawsai Public House is one of the best places to get a beer in Arequipa
Chelawasi Public House, a Pacific Northwest inspired Microbrewery.

Nestled in the trendy neighborhood of San Lazaro is the superb microbrewery, Chelawasi Public House. The brewery has many nods to the beer loving city of Portland, Oregon, U.S.A. See the Pacific Northwest influence with its murals and decor. Of course, there’s a wide range of unique beers. There’s pub grub to pair with the rotating beer list.

Find them here: Campo Redondo 102, Arequipa | Hours: Mon – Thur: 12:30 – 23:00 / Fri & Sat: 11:30 – 1:30 / Sun: 14:00 – 22:00 | Facebook Page: Chelawasi Public House

16 | Tanta

Tanta wine menu, wine glass, in the lovely courtyard
Sip on Peruvian Wine in a picturesque courtyard at Tanta

Tanta has an excellent outdoor courtyard that neighbors its expensive and famous sister restaurant Chicha por Gaston Acurio. This lovely backdrop offers an excellent opportunity to sip on authentic Peruvian wine. Tanta offers snacks, cocktails, and a main menu.

It is more casual than Chicha, due to the fact that they don’t accept reservations, but relatively speaking still quite pricey.

Find them here: Santa Catalina 105, Arequipa | Hours: Mon – Sat: 12:00 – 22:00 / Sunday: 12:00 – 18:00 | Facebook Page: Tanta

Fine Dinning Arequipa Restaurants

If seeking a top-notch culinary experience in Arequipa, try these highly rated restaurants:

Food Tours in Arequipa

Arequipa is such an awesome foodie city, so why not indulge in a food tour or workshop?

Best Arequipa Food Tours

Half-Day Guided Arequipa Food Tour which explains the history of Arequipa cuisine and stops at 4 top Arequipa Restaurants and hidden gems

Half-Day Peruvian Cooking Class with a stop at the local Market. Bonus, it includes how to make the perfect Pisco Sour

Chaqchao Chocolate Workshop

More Things to Do in Arequipa Peru

Santa Catalina Monastery, things to do in Arequipa, walkway, tourist attractions in peru, famous landmarks in peru, arequipa highlights, terrace, tree, what to see in arequipa peru
One of the best things to do in Arequipa is to visit the Santa Catalina Monastery with beautiful courtyards and a dark history

Most travelers visit Arequipa as a quick stop-over before exploring the Colca Canyon. Most people only spend a few days in the white city, but there really is so much to see in Arequipa.

One of the most photographed places in Arequipa is the colorful Santa Catalina Monastery. Don’t forget to stop by Alpaca World to understand the weaving process and see alpacas and llamas. Arequipa has interesting museums, like Museo Santuarios Andinos with the frozen mummy of Juanita.

32 Unique & Famous Peru Landmarks You Have to Visit

Arequipa has one of the most beautiful Plaza de Armas in Peru and tons of charming streets to wander along.

Visit the Yanahuara District to gaze out the mirador at Misti Volcano. Adventure trekkers can climb one of the Volcanoes of El Misti or Chachani. There’s also lovely day trips from Arequipa like the Ruta Del Sillar where the volcanic stones are extracted or the Capua Waterfall.

More Peru Travel Resources | The Ultimate Peru Travel Planning Guide

Where to Stay in Arequipa Peru



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Things to See in the Colca Canyon

views of Yanque Peru, Colca Canyon, things to do in Yanque, hike to Coporaque Peru, mountains, volcano, desert landscape, village, river
There are so many awesome things to do in Yanque Peru

Most people visit the second largest canyon in the world to do some trekking. There are many Colca Canyon hiking routes that can be explored either by a guided tour or without.

Outside of the ticketed area of the Colca Canyon are plenty of charming villages. One of my personal favorite places in the Colca Canyon is Yanque, which has some truly incredible hot springs and some nice Colca Canyon day hikes.

Conclusion | Best Arequipa Restaurants

a unique seafood soup served up at La Capitana Picanteria
Seafood soup from La Capitana Picanteria

Arequipa Peru is bustling city with so many things to see and do, however, one of the top things to do is eat at the many diverse Arequipa restaurants. The entire region of Arequipa has its own traditional cuisine, so don’t miss a chance to try typical dishes. Arequipa is an up and coming culinary destination, not only in South America, but is finally being recognized across the globe.

Arequipa has lovely coffee shops, budget friendly lunch menus, bustling markets, and so much more.

There are plenty of rooftop bars to sip on a Pisco Sour and watch the sun go down, all while the volcanoes turn and change beautiful colors. Arequipa also has a microbrewery and places to sample local wine.

With so many top Arequipa restaurants, make sure to come hungry!

Have you been to Arequipa Peru? Did you eat at any of these suggested Arequipa restaurants, coffee shops, and bars? Is there an Arequipa restaurant that you loved and I’m missing? Let me know in the comments below!

Disclaimer: There’s a chance this post contains affiliate links, and I receive a small (but grateful) portion of the sale. There’s no extra cost to you, and I only promote things that I use and love.

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