If you’re planning a trip to Peru and your itinerary includes a stop in the stunning city of Arequipa, known as the “White City” with its European charm, I’ve got some insider tips for you. These recommendations have been thoroughly (and repeatedly) tested—purely for scientific purposes, of course—and I’m confident they won’t disappoint.
1. Breakfast Bliss: A Slice of Peace in the Hustle
When it comes to breakfast, I have a clear favorite:
Coffee Roaster – Kaffeehaus.
This charming café, complete with a lovely garden, offers the perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s the ideal spot to start your day with a perfectly cooked omelet on your plate. I’ve tried them all, but the one with bacon? Absolute poetry on a plate.
As a bonus, you’ll often find like-minded travelers from the U.S. or Europe here. So, if you’re looking to swap travel tips, this place is a must-visit.
2. Coffee That Gets You Out of Bed
Another breakfast gem, Ristretto Coffee House, may not have the same variety of dishes, but what it lacks in omelets, it more than makes up for in coffee. And trust me, their coffee is worth every sip.
Pair it with a waffle — because waffles never fail — and you’ve got yourself a winning start to the day.
Plus, it’s a slightly more budget-friendly option compared to the first café.
3. The Best Ceviche in All of Peru? Right Here.
Ceviche is a Peruvian classic.
While it’s most often associated with Lima, thanks to the ocean and access to the freshest seafood, Arequipa has one exception that rewrites the rules: El Camaroncito – San Francisco.
Their ceviche is hands-down the best I’ve ever had. I kept going back for more.
Sure, it’s on the pricier side, but when it comes to ceviche in Peru, you don’t skimp on quality. Here, you can rest assured you’re getting the absolute finest on your plate.
4. A Steakhouse Escape: When You Crave a Change
After days of ceviche and other local specialties, you might find yourself craving something a bit more familiar.
A fantastic choice is El Fuego de San Antonio, a steakhouse that serves perfectly cooked steaks with impeccable service. It’s tucked away from the city’s main hustle, offering a peaceful atmosphere and some of the best steak you’ll find in Arequipa.
5. Swiss Precision Meets Peruvian Flavor
My personal favorite is Zig Zag, a restaurant where a Swiss owner has put immense care into every detail—from the stylish decor to the top-notch service and the exceptional quality of the food.
Here, you can enjoy Peruvian dishes, fresh fish, or steaks. But for me, the star of the menu was the Cordon Bleu.
It reminded me of the comfort food from back home, the kind that warms your soul and feels like a big, cozy hug on a plate.
So there you have it: five amazing spots to indulge in Arequipa’s culinary scene.
Whether you’re sipping coffee in a peaceful garden, savoring the best ceviche in town, or digging into a juicy steak.
These places will make your taste buds and your travel memories unforgettable. Enjoy!