Food & Drink

6 Must-Try Peruvian Cuisine Spots in Sunny San Diego!

San Diego is known for its diverse culinary scene, with a wide range of international cuisine available throughout the city. One particular cuisine that has gained popularity in recent years is Peruvian food.

Peruvian cuisine is a blend of Spanish, African, Chinese, and Japanese influences, resulting in a unique and flavorful cuisine.

Peruvian restaurants in San Diego offer a variety of dishes, such as ceviche, anticuchos, and lomo saltado. Ceviche, a dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice and spices, is a staple in Peruvian cuisine.

Anticuchos are skewers of grilled meat, typically made with beef heart, while lomo saltado is a stir-fry dish made with beef, onions, and tomatoes, served with french fries and rice.

What sets Peruvian cuisine apart is the use of ingredients such as aji amarillo, a spicy yellow pepper, and huacatay, a type of mint.

These ingredients add a unique flavor to the dishes and make them stand out from other cuisines.

In this blog post, we will explore some of the best Peruvian restaurants in San Diego. From casual spots to upscale dining, we will highlight the restaurants that offer the best Peruvian food in the city.

Whether you're a fan of ceviche or want to try something new, this guide will help you find the perfect Peruvian restaurant for your taste buds.

1. Eli's Peruvian Kitchen

Eli's Peruvian Kitchen
4979 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92115 (Google Maps)

Eli's Peruvian Kitchen is a must-visit restaurant for those who crave authentic Peruvian cuisine.

The food is delicious, and the staff is always great. The papas a la huancaina are creamy and perfectly spiced.

The ceviche de pescado is a standout dish with its perfectly mixed flavors.

The lomo saltado and ahi de gallina are also highly recommended. Eli's Peruvian Kitchen is a great place to dine with family and friends.

2. Sangucheria Peruvian Street Food

Sangucheria Peruvian Street Food
5950 Santo Rd Suite K, San Diego, CA 92124 (Google Maps)

Sangucheria Peruvian Street Food is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking for authentic Peruvian cuisine.

Their sandwiches are top-notch, with superb bread quality and just the right amount of sauces. The chicharron sandwich is a must-try for those new to Peruvian food.

Their peruvian anticuchos are also delicious and always have an authentic flavor. The staff is friendly and provides excellent service.

Don't miss out on the salchipapas, which are simply amazing. This restaurant transports you to Peru with its delicious food and kind owners.

3. Flama Llama

Flama Llama
4433 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111 (Google Maps)

Flama Llama is a new Peruvian restaurant that offers a unique fusion of Latin American and Asian flavors.

The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make for a pleasant dining experience.

The Lomo Saltado is a must-try dish, and the cocktails are creative and delicious. However, service can be slow at times.

Despite this, Flama Llama is definitely worth a visit for those looking for a unique dining experience.

4. Tropical Star Restaurant & Specialty Market

Tropical Star Restaurant & Specialty Market
6163 Balboa Ave, San Diego, CA 92111 (Google Maps)

Tropical Star Restaurant & Specialty Market is a hidden gem for those who love Peruvian cuisine. The restaurant offers a mix of Caribbean and South American dishes that are authentic and delicious.

The market offers a wide range of South American groceries, making it a one-stop-shop for those looking for hard-to-find ingredients.

The service is friendly, and the cozy atmosphere makes it a great spot for a casual meal. The must-try dishes include the peril de cerdo asado and the vegetarian tostones.

This restaurant is definitely worth a visit for anyone who loves Peruvian food or wants to try something new.

5. The Latin Chef Liberty Station

The Latin Chef Liberty Station
2820 Historic Decatur Rd UNIT 139, San Diego, CA 92106 (Google Maps)

The Latin Chef Liberty Station is a Peruvian restaurant that offers authentic and delicious food. The portions are generous and made with fresh ingredients.

The ceviche and saltaedos (noodles/rice) are must-try dishes. The service is excellent and the prices are reasonable.

The restaurant has received positive reviews from customers who praise the quality of the food and the friendly service.

If you are looking for a great Peruvian restaurant, The Latin Chef Liberty Station is definitely worth a visit.

6. Lima Peruvian Food & Cocktails

Lima Peruvian Food & Cocktails
409 F St, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Lima Peruvian Food & Cocktails is a must-visit for anyone craving delicious Peruvian cuisine. The food is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented.

The ceviche entree is a standout dish that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. The rotisserie chicken is another must-try item that is cooked to perfection.

The sauces that come with the dishes are a perfect complement to the flavors of the food. The Pisco Sour cocktail is also highly recommended.

The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. Lima Peruvian Food & Cocktails is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality Peruvian restaurant with great prices.