6 Best Restaurants in The Southern Coast, Peru

Vía La Encantada

$ Fodor's choice

With food that is as modern as the stylish interior, this is the best spot in town to try Peruvian-fusion cuisine. The pollo a lo oporto (chicken in a port wine sauce) is a standout, as is the cocktail list, including the tricolor Machu Picchu pisco cocktail. For a good view, head upstairs for a spot on the balcony overlooking the street.

El Cordón y La Rosa

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This bright little spot bills itself as a criollazo, a total onslaught of Peruvian coastal cooking. With its big portions and broad menu, it definitely lives up to that claim. The pescado a lo macho (fish in creamy seafood sauce) is delicious and filling, but really, you can't go wrong here, whatever you order.

El Otro Peñoncito

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Don't be surprised if chef Hary Hernandez (aka "Sir Hary") comes over to chat during your meal at this half-century-old Ica institution: his passion for food and hospitality is legendary. Among the dishes he might offer are pollo a la iqueña (chicken in pecan-and-pisco sauce) or fried trout. The recipes, he says, go back to his grandmother, and judging by the satisfied bellies of the customers, his abuela would be proud. Note: the restaurant has no written menu, so ask about prices before ordering.

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La Casa de Bamboo

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This pleasant garden café beside Hostería Suiza has a vegetarian-friendly vibe, with lots of quinoa and salads on offer. Dishes on the eclectic menu are all made from scratch by the British owner, and range from Thai curries and falafel to pastas and crepes. There are even peanut-butter-and-banana milk shakes.

La Kasa Rustika

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All the classics of Peruvian cooking are on offer at this well-loved local hangout. The corvina a lo macho (sea bass in shellfish sauce) and the pepper steak are both scrumptious. You'll also find an array of shell-on shrimp specialties and pastas, as well as excellent meats from the grill.

Oasis de América

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In a resort where mediocre tourist fare is the norm, this Peruvian eatery stands out. Here, after a long day on the dunes, you can replenish your system with a host of seafood options, as well as chicharrones (fried chicken or fish) and a few local specialties like carapulcra con sopa seca. Prices are a bit high, but worth it.