Where To Eat In Aguas Calientes Peru

Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is a small town nestled in the Andes Mountains of Peru, and it’s the gateway to the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. As a popular tourist destination, Aguas Calientes offers a wide range of dining options to cater to the diverse tastes and preferences of visitors from around the world. However, with so many restaurants to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to eat, especially when you’re looking for a authentic and delicious Peruvian culinary experience.

Overview of the Best Places to Eat in Aguas Calientes

This guide is designed to help you navigate the culinary scene in Aguas Calientes, providing you with insider tips and recommendations on the best places to eat in town. From traditional Peruvian cuisine to international flavors, we’ll cover a range of options to suit every budget and taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, a romantic dinner, or a local eatery to try authentic Andean specialties, we’ve got you covered.

What to Expect

In this guide, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Aguas Calientes, highlighting the top restaurants, cafes, and eateries that offer an unforgettable dining experience. We’ll provide you with detailed reviews, including information on menu options, prices, and ambiance, as well as insider tips on the best times to visit and what to order. With this guide, you’ll be able to make informed decisions about where to eat in Aguas Calientes, ensuring that your culinary adventure in Peru is nothing short of exceptional.

Where to Eat in Aguas Calientes, Peru

Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is a small town located at the foot of Machu Picchu Mountain in Peru. This charming town is a popular destination for travelers visiting the ancient Inca citadel, and it offers a variety of dining options to suit different tastes and budgets. In this article, we will explore the best places to eat in Aguas Calientes, from traditional Peruvian cuisine to international flavors and cafes.

Traditional Peruvian Cuisine

Peruvian cuisine is a fusion of indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian flavors, and Aguas Calientes offers a range of traditional restaurants serving local specialties. Here are some of the best places to try traditional Peruvian cuisine:

• Indigo: This cozy restaurant serves a variety of Peruvian dishes, including ceviche, grilled meats, and traditional soups. They also offer a selection of vegetarian and vegan options.
• El Mapi: This popular restaurant is located in the heart of Aguas Calientes and serves a range of traditional Peruvian dishes, including lomo saltado, ají de gallina, and paprika de ají.
• La Estación: This restaurant is located in a historic train station and serves a variety of Peruvian dishes, including grilled meats, seafood, and traditional soups.

International Cuisine

In addition to traditional Peruvian cuisine, Aguas Calientes also offers a range of international restaurants serving everything from Italian to Asian fusion cuisine. Here are some of the best places to try international cuisine: (See Also: Where To Eat In Dijon France)

• Tree House Restaurant: This restaurant serves a range of international dishes, including pasta, pizza, and salads, in a cozy treehouse setting.
• Kantu: This restaurant serves a fusion of Peruvian and Asian cuisine, including sushi, noodles, and stir-fries.
• La Boulangerie de Paris: This French bakery serves a range of pastries, sandwiches, and salads, as well as delicious coffee and croissants.

Cafes and Bakeries

Aguas Calientes has a range of cafes and bakeries serving everything from coffee and pastries to sandwiches and salads. Here are some of the best places to grab a coffee or snack:

• Café Machu Picchu: This cafe serves a range of coffee drinks, as well as pastries, sandwiches, and salads.
• The Coffee Shop: This cozy cafe serves a range of coffee drinks, as well as delicious cakes and pastries.
• Panadería y Café La Casa de los Abuelos: This bakery serves a range of fresh bread, pastries, and sandwiches, as well as delicious coffee and hot chocolate.

Street Food and Markets

In addition to restaurants and cafes, Aguas Calientes also has a range of street food stalls and markets selling everything from traditional snacks to fresh fruit and vegetables. Here are some of the best places to try street food:

• Street Food Stalls: Along the main street of Aguas Calientes, you’ll find a range of street food stalls selling traditional snacks, such as anticuchos (grilled beef heart skewers), churros, and picarones (sweet potato donuts).
• Mercado de Artesanías y Comidas: This market sells a range of traditional snacks, including humitas (steamed corn pudding), tamales, and chicha morada (purple corn drink).
• Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Stalls: Along the main street, you’ll find a range of stalls selling fresh fruit and vegetables, including exotic fruits like lucuma and guanabana.

Tips and Recommendations

Here are some tips and recommendations for eating in Aguas Calientes:

• Try the Local Specialties: Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as ceviche, lomo saltado, and paprika de ají.
• Eat at Local Restaurants: Eating at local restaurants is a great way to support the local economy and try traditional Peruvian cuisine.
• Be Prepared for Altitude: Aguas Calientes is located at a high altitude, so be sure to drink plenty of water and take breaks if you need to.
• Reserve Ahead: During peak season, it’s a good idea to reserve ahead at popular restaurants to avoid long wait times.
• Try the Local Drinks: Be sure to try some of the local drinks, such as pisco sours, chicha morada, and Inca Kola.

Recap

In conclusion, Aguas Calientes offers a range of dining options to suit different tastes and budgets. From traditional Peruvian cuisine to international flavors and cafes, there’s something for everyone in this charming town. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, eat at local restaurants, and be prepared for altitude. With these tips and recommendations, you’ll be sure to have a delicious and memorable dining experience in Aguas Calientes. (See Also: Where To Eat In Evora Portugal)

Note: Prices are approximate and may vary depending on the season and availability of ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions: Where to Eat in Aguas Calientes, Peru

What are the must-try local dishes in Aguas Calientes?

Aguas Calientes, being a popular tourist destination, offers a variety of local and international cuisine. Some must-try local dishes include Ceviche, Lomo Saltado, Aji de Gallina, and Paprika de Ají. These dishes can be found in many local restaurants and cafes throughout the town.

Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available in Aguas Calientes?

Yes, many restaurants in Aguas Calientes cater to vegetarian and vegan diets. Some popular options include Indigo Cafe, The Tree House, and Green Point. These restaurants offer a range of plant-based dishes, from traditional Peruvian cuisine to international options like veggie burgers and salads.

What is the average cost of a meal in Aguas Calientes?

The average cost of a meal in Aguas Calientes can vary depending on the type of restaurant and the location. However, on average, you can expect to pay around 20-30 soles (approximately $6-10 USD) for a meal at a mid-range restaurant. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can find meals for around 10-15 soles (approximately $3-5 USD) at local cafes and street food stalls.

Are there any restaurants with a view of Machu Picchu?

Yes, there are a few restaurants in Aguas Calientes that offer stunning views of Machu Picchu. One popular option is the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, which is located just outside the Machu Picchu archaeological site. Another option is the Cafe Inkaterra, which offers views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. (See Also: Where To Eat In Rouen)

Can I find any restaurants that serve traditional Andean cuisine?

Yes, there are several restaurants in Aguas Calientes that specialize in traditional Andean cuisine. One popular option is the Tunupa Restaurant, which offers a range of dishes made with local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Another option is the Andina Restaurant, which serves up classic Andean dishes like cuy (guinea pig) and paprika de ají.