A Guide to Lima's Coolest Neighborhood, Barranco

Lima, Peru is one of Latin America's coolest (and largest) cities. And the neighborhood with the most charm, elegance, and straight up coolness is Barranco (sorry for all of the people who still think Miraflores is where it is at - you're wrong). Barranco is historically (and technically still is) its own town, featuring its own Plaza de Armas and church at the center. However, as Lima has exploded, Barranco has been whisked into the line of nice neighborhoods in Lima, situated just south of Miraflores. Barranco is teeming with cool restaurants, bars, coffee shops, art galleries, and generally good vibes. So where should you visit in Barranco? I am so glad you asked!

Read less

Updated ago

Things to Do and Shops

Museo Pedro de Osma

@markfedoronko

Pedro de Osma's amazing collection of primarily viceregal art is a hidden masterpiece of Lima. Housed in a beautiful mansion from 1906 (this is a theme in this district), the intricacies of the house are a reason alone to visit the museum - the chandeliers, stain glass, and other features are particularly stunning. The collection features paintings from the Cusco school, lots of artifacts, and even some Inca pieces. If art from the 16th to 18th century interests you, this is a lovely way to spend an afternoon in Barranco!

Add to

Details

Lima Museum of Contemporary Art

@markfedoronko

On other end of art history in Peru is Lima MAC, the primary modern art museum in Lima. While quite a small (only three rooms) this cool museum highlights modern art and artists from around Latin America. The area around the museum is also very cool - while more of a local park there are unique artsy touches like painted buses and other murals

Add to

Details

Museo Jade Rivera

@markfedoronko

Jade Rivera is a notable artist - still alive at that - based in Barranco. Making murals and other art pieces since 1998, Jade Rivera has shown his work in a number of countries around the world. In Barranco, Jade Rivera has set up a beautiful museum showcasing his work in Barranco. With over 90 pieces on display, the museum is a wonderful way to experience a little bit of local modern art in a beautiful setting.

Add to

Details

Bridge of Sighs

@markfedoronko

The Bridge of Sighs and the park around it are the center of Barranco. While a bridge has been here since 1875, the modern bridge gets its luster from famous Peruvian singer Chabuca Granda sang a song about this bridge being a place of love and longing. As a result, this bridge has long been considered a bridge of love in Barranco - and is Barranco's most famous site. Today the park around the bridge is extremely quaint. There are a number of restaurants, shops, and galleries right on the park. The park also has some wonderful murals and street art that give it a youthful vibe. While the places right on the park are maybe a little more touristic, go as little as one block away and you can find all the wonderful places locals hang out.

Add to

Details

Plaza de Armas Barranco

@markfedoronko

The center of Barranco feels like a small town in Peru. The Plaza feels a far cry from Lima despite being in the city. On the weekends there's a real joyous feeling. There are even some events that take place here. While the shops and restaurants are the most western and least authentic you can find (think KFC next to Dunkin Donuts next to Starbucks), the square is a lovely place to stroll in the evening before dinner. One block in either direction and you have some lovely bars and restaurants so no need to focus here

Add to

Details

Alameda Sáenz Peña

@markfedoronko

Alameda Sáenz Peña is a lovely public park. On the west end of the park is a lovely view on the Pacific Ocean - one of Lima's best sunset spots. The park itself if quite lovely - great greenery, pretty houses around. The eastern end had a wonderful little craft market going on for Mother's Day on my most recent visit. If anything, this is a great park to visit, especially if you are staying at one of the nice hotels right off the park

Add to

Details

Shopping Spots

Like many upscale neighborhoods, Barranco is dotted with dozens fo cute boutiques, shops, and galleries. I've offered a few of my favorite galleries and stores in the area, but this is only the start of the amazing shopping to be done here!

PUNA Shop Gallery

@markfedoronko

PUNA is an incredibly cool home boutique. However, PUNA is not the only shop worth visiting. The second floor of the building has a number of cool stores, including a chocolate shop and a store with various unique alcoholic drinks. It's like visiting four stores in one!

Add to

Details

Libreria La Rebelde

@markfedoronko

La Rebelde is almost not a bookstore and more of a home filled with books. Oftentimes the store plays hosts to events that almost look like literary gatherings and are filled with local Limeños smoking cigarettes and drinking coffee. Regardless, it's a very cozy shop to stop in!

Add to

Details

El Clóset de mi hermana

@markfedoronko

I'd say this may be the coolest clothing and general boutique in all of Barranco. With amazing clothing and a fantastic array of products, this is an awesome store. Around the store there are several other cool boutiques and stores that are worth browsing

Add to

Details

Dédalo

@markfedoronko

Dedalo publicizes itself as an art gallery - there is a massive understatement. Dedalo is a series of different art galleries under one roof. With things ranging from jewelry to stonework to art to high end alpaca yarns, you really can find a whole slew of different things. While the alpaca products are probably a bit overpriced, the jewelry and stoneware is sensational. You could easily spend an hour just browsing the work even if you're not interested in buying anything! The open air cafe in the back is a hidden treat for delicious coffees in a great environment!

Add to

Details

Restaurants

NOTE: Central was the number 1 restaurant in the world in 2023. Once you have earned this distinction, you are no longer allowed to be on the list and you join a "Hall of Fame" with some other wonderful restaurants. This means if you type "Best Restaurant in the World" on Google you'll get a different restaurant in Barcelona. I've kept my descriptions below referring Central as number 1 in the world as I think they are still quite accurate!

Mérito

@markfedoronko

Barranco is home to the world's number 1 restaurant (see Central below); am I really going to suggest a different restaurant as my favorite in the neighborhood? I'll take the hate - yes I am. Mérito is a newer arrival to the dining scene in Lima. However, it offers all the same quality and panache that some of its older peers offer. Mérito is headed by Juan Luis Martinez, a Venezuelan chef who got his start at Central. Soaking up the art of Peruvian food at Central, Martinez opened his Venezuelan-Peruvian fusion spot. The result? An absolute gem of a restaurant, showing creativity while still making you feel like you are eating amazing home cooking. Some of the highlights on the menu include Andean cereal grain crackers topped with a fish crudo and a sachotomate gele; a fish curry served with a wonderful coconut milk cream; and most notably the pork belly arepas - a feast for both he eyes and the stomach. Even desserts are interesting; the corn and coffee semifredo cake is the most unique dessert I've ever had. The bottom line is this: Mérito is a spectacular restaurant. The price will not break the bank (unlike places like Central or Miraflores' Maido). Make sure you make a reservation at least a month out - or more if you want a seat at the captivating kitchen table.

Add to

Details

Central and Kjolle

@markfedoronko

Would a guide to Barranco that does not include the number 1 restaurant in the world be complete? Probably not. Virgilio Martinez and Pia Leon's ode to the Peruvian pantry - Central - is extravagant yet lovely. A 14 course tasting menu (costing about 1400 soles) takes you on a journey around the country, showing different ingredients from the various altitudes around Peru. "14 courses" is selling it short as many courses have two or three dishes - 20 courses is probably more accurate. The service is knowledgable, passionate, yet completely unpretentious. Should you visit Central? If you have the budget to visit, I say yes. The experience is as much educational as it is a culinary journey. You get to learn about the various parts of Peru and the various ingredients you can find - some known (clams, potatoes) and others a bit off the beaten path (special Amazonian fish and unique high altitude fish roe). If you can go at the end of your trip to Peru after you've visited other places (and seen the various landscapes) you will likely enjoy more of the meal. If Central is out of your budget, have no fear; Pia's solo project Kjolle is located on site and also offers a great dining experience. Just like Central, Kjolle shows off unique ingredients from around Peru, especially tubers. Despite being highly acclaimed, the price tag is significantly less than its brother restaurant. One last piece of advice: Central and Kjolle - and for that matter their restaurant MIL outside of Cuzco - are pretty similar in approach. Despite all three having significant plaudits, going to more than one is a bit redundant. If you can only pick one, I'd say Central is probably the best, but MIL's full day trip experience is also pretty cool. Regardless, picking any of the three restaurants will give you an amazing experience into the wealth of Peruvian ingredients.

Add to

Details

Terminal Pesquero Cevichería Barranco

@markfedoronko

This was a serendipitous find, literally attached to a random church in the northern side of Barranco. However, this cevicheria is one of the best I've been to, and should absolutely be a lunch spot when you visit Barranco! Their traditional ceviche is flavorful and delicious. I got to see a peak in the kitchen where one of the chefs' sons (no older than 14) was making the ceviche - a sign you know it is good. The cooked dishes are just as good. The woks and big cast iron pans cooking arroz con mariscos (basically Peruvian paella) and other stir fried fish dishes waft through the restaurant. This is an amazing spot for Peruvian seafood.

Add to

Details

Isolina

@markfedoronko

Isolina is a modern interpretation on a traditional criolla tavern. While very popular with the tourist crowd, the food is delicious and hearty. Heaping portions of classics like lomo saltado, aji de galena, fried plantains, and more waft through the restaurant. The space is casual but nice and is the perfect place for authentic food. Reservations are not required here, but queues can be quite hefty if you visit during dinner hours.

Add to

Details

Arepa Café

@markfedoronko

While most of this list is "nicer" food, I think a hole in the wall is in order. Arepa Cafe is that place. Serving the classic Venezuelan corn cake with fillings. Arepa Cafe serves these delicious hot cakes with great fillings including meat, cheese, beans and more. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even a late night snack, Arepa Cafe is a great place to grab a bite to eat!

Add to

Details

Coffee Shops and Other Places for a Snack

Caleta Dolsa Coffee

@markfedoronko

Caleta Dolsa may be the best coffee in Lima. All the coffee comes from various regions in Peru, and their roasts are incredibly smooth. With two locations - one in Barranco and one in San Isidro - their coffee cafes serve delicious brunch all day alongside the coffee. The avocado toast and breakfast burrito are stand outs, but really everything here is good. Make sure to buy some coffee to bring home!

Add to

Details

Ciclos Café

@markfedoronko

Ciclos is a cozy little micro roaster located in the heart of Barranco. With one roaster machine that you can see situated right off the main sitting area, you can taste some fo the amazing small batch coffees. If you have some extra time, make sure to ask to go upstairs and visit El Cacaotal - an artisanal chocolate shop that offers chocolates from all over Peru!

Add to

Details

Alanya Repostería

@markfedoronko

Alanya is a wildly popular cafe located right off the main park in Barranco. All times of day you will find the cafe filled with local Limeños enjoying a coffee and some of their exquisite pastries. I particularly love the interior design inside of Alanya - super Bohemian and almost beach-y at the same time!

Add to

Details

In Front of Entrepapas - Great Churros!

@markfedoronko

I have not been to Entrepapas, so I cannot espouse on its food. However, right in front of the restaurants, you can find a small stand selling some of the best street churros you'll find in Lima! I believe the vendor is called the Dragón Rojo, but don't quote me on this. Like any safe street food vendor, you can see a lot of turnover and lots of locals ordering churros to go. The crispy confection is not like a Mexican or Spanish churro; this is thick dough with a light sugar outside. The "surprise" is a thick and oozing amount of manejar - similar to dulce de leche. This stand is the best spot for some delicious churros right after lunch!

Add to

Details

Blu Gelateria

@markfedoronko

There are a decent number of ice cream places in Barranco. Blu is probably the best of the bunch. With delicious Italian style gelato but with a Peruvian twist. Classic flavors like Stracciatella can be found next to tropical fruits like Lucuma, making this a truly unique gelataria in Barranco

Add to

Details

Bars and other Watering Holes

Ayahuasca

@markfedoronko

Ayahuasca can get rowdier later in the evening. However, this bar meets gastro pub makes some delicious cocktails - the Pisco Sour is a particularly good choice here, but all of their drinks are good.

Add to

Details

Bird Bar Cocktail

@markfedoronko

Bird Bar cocktail lounge is a sleek bar. The vibe inside leans on the louder end with music. However, the specialty cocktails with high end ice and even some performance art - think smoke with drinks and some other magic of the sort - make it an incredibly fun cocktail bar to visit. The drinks are pretty good - I'd recommend any Pisco drink but that might just be my own preferences!

Add to

Details

Victoria Barranco

@markfedoronko

Victoria Barranco is an incredibly popular place for Limeños to grab a beer or a cocktail. The space is situated split between a beautiful house and a wonderfully lush garden, making the vibes impeccable. Next-door there is a really cool sustainable boutique that is also worth checking out!

Add to

Details

Garrison Bar

@markfedoronko

A newer addition to Barranco located in a beautiful historic building, Garrison is a very cool beer garden/bar/gastropub. They are well known for their selection of international whiskeys, but their craft beer menu is also worth taking a look

Add to

Details

Hotels

Hotel B

@markfedoronko

Lima's outpost of the Relais and Chateaux brand, Hotel B is the swankiest hotel in Barranco. The house is one of the nicest looking mansions in an area filled with charming mansions and old houses. Originally built in the Belle Epoque style in 1914, the hotel was restored to its full glory in 2013. Today, the rooms are stylish, comfortable, and live with all the charm and beauty that is Barranco. Expect to pay a handsome price for these rooms, but you will enjoy it for sure! If you can't afford to stay, the cocktail lounge is worth popping in to see just how magnificent the hotel is.

Add to

Details

Casa Republica Barranco Boutique Hotel

@markfedoronko

Can't afford Hotel B? It's ok many people can't. However, Casa Barranco down the block is a perfect alternative. Also housed in a beautiful old mansion (off the same park as Hotel B), the hotel has a similar vibe and charm. A beautiful courtyard garden and second floor library offer great spaces to enjoy a drink or cup of tea. There is also a charming rooftop that serves up drinks - though this rooftop can be quite lively on the weekends!

Add to

Details

Villa Barranco by Ananay Hotels

@markfedoronko

Ananay Hotels runs a chain of small boutique hotels around Peru. Their Villa Barranco in Barranco fits the billing of the other hotels here: old 1910's mansion restored and open to visitors. Inside the rooms and spaces are filled with magnificent art that really exposes the elegance of the property. While not quite as lush as some of the other options, the rooms are quite comfortable and the location is even closer to the center of Barranco if you are looking to be closer to the Plaza de Armas

Add to

Details

Second Home Peru

@markfedoronko

Second Home Peru is a small hotel with big character. The hotel brands itself as half hotel, half gallery. The hotel even was the former home of a Peruvian sculptor. Second Home Peru's rooms are pretty unique. Very few hotels offer ocean views despite Lima being right on the water; Second Home offers that waterfront view right from your room!

Add to

Details

3B Barranco's - Chic and Basic - B&B

@markfedoronko

"Chic and Basic" is is a great description of this small B&B on the northern end of Barranco. While the rooms are not particularly luxurious, the prices are incredibly affordable, the spaces are clean, and this puts as a perfect budget option in Barranco

Add to

Details

I cannot stress how wonderful Barranco is. It's historic, artsy, trendy, and homey all in one. This article only begins to touch on Barranco's highlights. Make sure to explore and add to this wonderful list of places to visit in Barranco!

Reach out to Mark!

Mark provides all sorts of info to help your travel needs! This includes specific travel itineraries and planning services. Please reach out if you have any questions or would like customized travel services.

Like this guide? Don't be afraid to say thank you and send a tip!

Contact Mark

markstravelrecs.wordpress.com

* * *

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mark Fedoronko

Available for hire

My name is Mark, and I've been travel planning since the age of 11. About Me I help redefine the way you experience the world. I don't just plan trips; we craft extraordinary adventures tailored to your unique desires. Mark's journey into the realm of travel planning began at an early age, driven by an insatiable curiosity to uncover the hidden gems and cultural nuances that make each destination truly exceptional. Expertise Beyond Borders Boasting an extensive portfolio of expertise, Mark is a seasoned navigator through the enchanting landscapes of Morocco, the captivating history of Jordan, the rich tapestry of Israel/Palestine, the cosmopolitan allure of Copenhagen, and beyond. Whether you're yearning for the vibrant markets of Marrakech, the ancient wonders of Petra, the historical significance of Jerusalem, or the contemporary charm of Copenhagen, I ensure that your journey is not just a trip but a transformative experience. Custom Itineraries, Crafted with Care I understand that no two travelers are the same. My commitment to personalization means that every itinerary is a bespoke masterpiece, meticulously crafted to reflect your preferences, interests, and dreams. From immersive cultural excursions to adrenaline-pumping adventures, we curate experiences that resonate with your individual travel style. Why Choose Mark's Travel Recs? Passion-Driven Expertise: Mark's lifelong passion ensures every itinerary has an authentic touch. Global Perspective: With knowledge spanning diverse destinations, I offer journeys beyond the ordinary. Attention to Detail: I leave no stone unturned, from accommodation to off-the-beaten-path excursions. Seamless Planning: Let me take the reins for a stress-free journey from conception to execution. Embark on a voyage of a lifetime with me—where the world is your oyster, and I help you discover its pearls

Read less

Send A Tip

Support Mark Fedoronko’s work.

Select your tip amount

$10

$20

$50

Or type in other amount

Explore related destinations