Mérito

"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. "