Best Budget Eats in Cusco, Cusco, Peru
1. Picantería Cusco
A local favorite for traditional Peruvian dishes, offering generous portions at affordable prices. Solving the challenge of finding delicious, authentic food without breaking the bank.
- Affordable Prices: Offers a variety of dishes under S/.20 (~$6)
- Traditional Dishes: Serves local favorites like Lomo Saltado and Ceviche
- Central Location: Located in the heart of Cusco, near Plaza de Armas
2. El Huarache Azul
A cozy spot known for its mouthwatering blue corn pizzas (huaraches). Solving the challenge of finding unique Peruvian takes on international cuisine.
- Unique Blue Corn Pizzas: Uses traditional blue corn for a distinctive flavor
- Reasonable Prices: Offers delicious pizzas under S/.15 (~$4.50)
- Homey Atmosphere: Provides a warm, inviting environment for diners
3. Cusco Chicha Museum Restaurant
Combines history and dining with an exhibition on the ancient Peruvian drink, chicha. Solving the challenge of making education fun and delicious.
- Educational Experience: Offers a unique insight into traditional Andean beverages
- Reasonable Prices: Serves affordable dishes and drinks while learning about the history of chicha
- Authentic Andean Cuisine: Incorporates traditional Andean flavors into its menu
4. Green Point Café
A vegetarian and vegan-friendly café that offers a variety of healthy meals and snacks. Solving the challenge of finding nutritious options for travelers with dietary restrictions.
- Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Provides ample choices for vegetarians and vegans
- Healthy Menu: Offers a wide selection of fresh, nutritious meals
- Reasonable Prices: Affordable options under S/.15 (~$4.50)
5. Porco Rosado
A street food stall serving succulent roasted pork sandwiches. Solving the challenge of finding delicious, quick eats on a budget.
- Affordable Prices: Offers tasty sandwiches for under S/.5 (~$0.15)
- Quick Service: Provides fast, efficient service for busy travelers
- Authentic Flavor: Prepares traditional roasted pork sandwiches with fresh ingredients
6. Tantawasay Restaurant
A family-run restaurant serving delicious Andean dishes in a welcoming atmosphere. Solving the challenge of finding authentic, homestyle meals.
- Family-Run: Provides a warm, inviting atmosphere with personal service
- Authentic Andean Dishes: Serves traditional dishes like cuy (guinea pig) and olluco con charqui
- Reasonable Prices: Offers budget-friendly options under S/.20 (~$6)
7. Qorikancha Café
A charming café located near the Inca ruins of Qorikancha. Solving the challenge of finding relaxing spots with delicious coffee and pastries.
- Relaxing Atmosphere: Offers a serene environment to enjoy your meal or drink
- Delicious Coffee and Pastries: Prepares authentic Peruvian coffee and pastries using local ingredients
- Near Qorikancha Ruins: Located near one of Cusco's most famous historical sites
8. Cicli-Bar
A trendy bike shop and café that serves delicious sandwiches, salads, and smoothies. Solving the challenge of finding a hip spot to grab a bite.
- Hip Atmosphere: Offers an urban, trendy environment with bike accessories
- Delicious Sandwiches and Salads: Prepares tasty, nutritious options for lunch or snacks
- Affordable Prices: Offers budget-friendly meals under S/.15 (~$4.50)
9. Sayri Bar
A popular spot for traditional Peruvian drinks and tapas. Solving the challenge of finding a fun place to socialize with locals.
- Local Atmosphere: Provides an authentic, lively environment for meeting locals
- Traditional Drinks and Tapas: Serves a variety of local drinks like chicha morada and tapas like anticuchos
- Reasonable Prices: Offers delicious options under S/.15 (~$4.50)
10. Pachapapa
A unique fusion restaurant that combines Peruvian and Asian flavors. Solving the challenge of finding diverse culinary experiences.
- Fusion Cuisine: Offers a creative blend of Peruvian and Asian dishes
- Reasonable Prices: Serves tasty fusion dishes for under S/.20 (~$6)
- Central Location: Located in the bustling San Blas neighborhood
11. Mama Simona
A charming restaurant specializing in traditional Peruvian dishes like lomo saltado and ceviche. Solving the challenge of finding authentic Peruvian cuisine.
- Authentic Peruvian Cuisine: Serves classic Peruvian dishes with a homey touch
- Reasonable Prices: Offers delicious meals for under S/.20 (~$6)
- Central Location: Located in the heart of Cusco, near Plaza de Armas
12. Mercado San Pedro
A bustling market offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and prepared food options. Solving the challenge of finding a diverse selection of affordable eats.
- Diverse Food Selection: Provides numerous food vendors selling Peruvian specialties
- Affordable Prices: Offers a wide range of budget-friendly options
- Authentic Experience: Allows travelers to immerse themselves in local Peruvian culture
13. Mercado Central de San Blas
A smaller market located in the historic San Blas neighborhood, offering fresh produce and local specialties. Solving the challenge of finding a more intimate market experience.
- Intimate Market Experience: Provides a cozy, less crowded market environment
- Affordable Prices: Offers budget-friendly options for fresh produce and food items
- Authentic Experience: Allows travelers to immerse themselves in local Peruvian culture
14. El Albergue Del Inca
A budget-friendly hostel with a popular restaurant serving traditional dishes. Solving the challenge of finding affordable accommodations with good food.
- Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Offers budget-friendly dormitory and private rooms
- Traditional Peruvian Dishes: Serves delicious Andean dishes for dinner
- Central Location: Located near the bustling San Blas neighborhood
15. Mercado Wanchaq
A large market offering a variety of food options and local goods. Solving the challenge of finding an extensive selection of affordable eats.
- Extensive Food Selection: Provides numerous food vendors selling Peruvian specialties
- Affordable Prices: Offers a wide range of budget-friendly options
- Authentic Experience: Allows travelers to immerse themselves in local Peruvian culture