Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, captivates not only for its historical and architectural richness, but also for a culinary scene that masterfully blends Andean tradition with contemporary cooking techniques. The imperial city has established itself as one of South America’s most important gastronomic destinations, where each restaurant tells a unique story through its flavors.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover the best restaurants in Cusco for 2025, from buffet-style establishments offering unlimited variety to à la carte restaurants that stand out for their specialized culinary proposals. Each recommendation has been selected considering the quality of the ingredients, the dining experience they offer, and reviews from both local and international diners.
Cusqueñan gastronomy represents a full sensory experience, combining ancestral ingredients like quinoa, guinea pig, trout, and an impressive variety of native potatoes with modern preparation techniques that enhance traditional flavors without losing their cultural essence.
List of the Best Restaurants in Cusco 2025
The selection of the best restaurants in Cusco for 2025 is based on strict criteria including food quality, customer service, dish authenticity, value for money, and the overall dining experience. This list represents the best of Cusco’s current culinary offerings.
“Cusqueñan gastronomy is a journey through time that connects the present with the ancestral traditions of the Inca Empire, where every dish tells an ancient story.”
Buffet Restaurants
- Wide culinary variety
- Fixed prices per person
- Ideal for large groups
- Multiple dietary options
À la Carte Restaurants
- Specialized culinary experience
- Dishes made to order
- Unique gastronomic concepts
- More intimate atmosphere
Buffet Restaurants: Variety and Tradition in One Place
“Cusqueñan gastronomy is a journey through time that connects the present with the ancestral traditions of the Inca Empire, where every dish tells an ancient story.”
Buffet restaurants in Cusco offer a unique opportunity to explore the diversity of Andean cuisine in a single meal. These establishments are characterized by a wide variety of traditional and contemporary dishes, allowing diners to experience different flavors and textures of Cusqueñan food.
Tunupa: Andean Tradition in Every Bite
Located in the heart of Cusco’s historic center, Tunupa has become one of the city’s most renowned buffet restaurants. Its culinary concept focuses on rescuing and preserving traditional Andean recipes, presented in a buffet format that allows visitors to explore local gastronomic richness.
The restaurant stands out for its traditionally prepared pachamanca, various types of native potatoes, and a selection of Andean meats. The setting recreates the atmosphere of a colonial Cusqueñan house, with live folk music enhancing the dining experience.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Price | S/ 45 – 65 per person |
| Hours | 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM |
| Specialty | Traditional Andean cuisine |
| Location | Portal Confituría 233, Plaza de Armas |
Belmond Hotel Monasterio: Gastronomic Luxury with History
The buffet restaurant at the Belmond Hotel Monasterio represents the highest expression of gastronomic luxury in Cusco. Housed in a building dating back to the 16th century, this venue combines colonial architectural elegance with an international-level culinary proposal that incorporates local ingredients and techniques.
Its Sunday buffet is particularly recognized for the exceptional quality of its products, which include fresh seafood, premium meats, and a dessert selection that fuses French techniques with Andean flavors. Personalized service and a refined atmosphere make it a memorable dining experience.
Tayta Fe: Homestyle Flavors on a Grand Scale
Tayta Fe is known for offering a gastronomic experience that evokes the flavors of traditional Cusqueñan home cooking in buffet format. This family-run restaurant has gained popularity among both locals and tourists for preserving the authenticity of traditional recipes without sacrificing quality in large-scale preparation.
Its strength lies in traditional stews such as adobo cusqueño, chiri uchu, and an impressive variety of Andean soups that change seasonally. The cozy atmosphere and affordable prices have made it a favorite choice for families and groups of friends.
14 Inkas: Innovation in Buffet Format
14 Inkas represents an innovative proposal in the Cusqueñan buffet segment, combining traditional dishes with contemporary interpretations of Andean cuisine. Its name refers to the rulers of the Tahuantinsuyo, and each buffet section is thematically related to different aspects of Inca culture.
The experience includes interactive stations where diners can observe the preparation of certain dishes, such as quinoa cooked in various styles and traditional sauces made with native chili peppers.
Dining Tip: At Cusco buffet restaurants, always start by trying small portions of various dishes to find your favorites before serving full portions.
À la Carte Restaurants: Specialized Culinary Experiences
À la carte restaurants in Cusco offer more personalized and specialized dining experiences, where each dish is prepared individually with meticulous attention to detail. These establishments are characterized by well-defined culinary proposals and chefs who have developed unique interpretations of local and international cuisine.
Incanto: Italian-Peruvian Fusion Excellence
Incanto has revolutionized Cusco’s culinary scene with its Italian-Peruvian fusion concept, respecting the traditions of both culinary cultures. Located in a restored colonial mansion, the restaurant offers an experience that combines Italian sophistication with the bold flavors of the Peruvian Andes.
The menu features handmade pastas made with Andean flours, risottos prepared with quinoa, and meats accompanied by sauces that incorporate native chili peppers. The Italian-born chef-owner has created a menu that surprises both locals and international visitors.
| Signature Dish | Description | Approx. Price |
|---|---|---|
| Quinoa Risotto | Creamy quinoa with parmesan cheese and Andean trout | S/ 42 |
| Pasta al Rocoto | Homemade fettuccine with rocoto chili sauce and pancetta | S/ 38 |
| Andean Osso Buco | Lamb with Andean herbs and purple corn polenta | S/ 65 |