Lima, Peru: Five Best Cheap Places to Eat

Menu at Gonzi's (Photo: Isabel Guerra)

You may be traveling on a budget but you can always find some good options for a cheap lunch, specially in Peru. Here’s some recommendations specially picked for you!

Cordano: Established in 1905, Cordano is almost an institution. Good food, affordable prices, and a glimpse of Lima’s past times in the photographs hanging on the wall. It serves local cuisine:  meats, seafood, chicken, salads, desserts, plus beverages, and drinks. Remember to try the Chilcano de Pisco.

Norky’s: A nice and cheap place to enjoy Peruvian Roasted Chicken, locally known as “Pollo a la brasa”, and many other BBQ specialtes, Peruvian and international as well; a good option when traveling with kids, since it has some kid-friendly options (nuggets, hot dogs, etc.) and a covered playground.

Gonzi’s: A hidden spot in San Isidro, not far from the intersection of Javier Prado and Arequipa avenues, where you can enjoy a complete three-course lunch (entreé, main course, dessert, and a beverage) for only US $5 or even less. In the middle of the way from Downtown to Miraflores, it’s a perfect place for for making your budget last!

Canta Rana:  A very good and family-run cevicheria in Barranco, where you will often see the owner, Vicente, chatting with the guests. You can expect almost any kind of Limenian seafood here, and also the possibility of meeting new friends. Good drinks are a plus to be considered, too.

Cafe Z: In Miraflores, you will find good Peruvian coffees plus fruit juices and all kind of big-served sandwiches that can make up for a delicious yet quick lunch or dinner. And some weekends they have live music in the evenings.