Most of Cusco’s restaurant scene is for tourists, but that doesn’t mean the food isn’t authentic. What you’ll find at the fancy restaurants in the historic center is a gourmet version of classic Cusqueñian dishes, usually with higher quality ingredients, better presentation and better hygiene in the kitchen.

Most Cusqueñians eat breakfast and lunch at markets or at local restaurants that serve “menu.” Local “menu” restaurants prepare one or two main dishes, plus a soup and some kind of drink made with boiled water for a set price. The “menu” varies each day, but it’s not like ordering off a menu, called “platos a la carta.”

Cusqueñians usually have a light dinner at home, so restaurants that serve dinner are almost always for tourists, international or Peruvian.