Arequipa’s cuisine, shaped by tradition and flavor

National Geographic maganize cataloged Arequipa as Peru's next great food city, recognizing the traditional "picanterías," traditional restaurants revered as sanctuaries of flavor. Iconic dishes like rocoto relleno, creamy ocopa (potatoes in green chile sauce), and savory chupe de camarones (river shrimp chowder) beckon diners on an authentic taste journey. Picanterías not only preserve ancient culinary techniques, such as wood-fired ovens and the use of traditional tools like the ‘batán’, but also serve as bastions of women's empowerment and community advancement.

Arequipa's culinary landscape is not only rooted in tradition, but also thrives on evolution. A new generation of chefs is redefining Peruvian cuisine with modern twists and inventive flavors. From tantalizing pisco sours infused with exotic fruits to pork marinades that evoke the flavors of centuries past, innovation knows no bounds. It is a culinary tapestry that seamlessly weaves together the best recipes of yesteryear with the cutting-edge culinary techniques of today.

But Arequipa's appeal extends beyond the plate. Its UNESCO-designated Historic Center, a testament to colonial grandeur, invites visitors to stroll through cobblestone streets adorned with architectural wonders. Surrounded by towering volcanoes and verdant valleys, the city is a harmonious blend of colonial charm and indigenous heritage.

Here, every meal is a celebration of heritage and tradition, a symphony of flavors that echo through centuries of culinary mastery. Are you ready to embark on a gastronomic odyssey through this enchanting Peruvian city? Contact us for more information or to request your personalized itinerary.