Exploring the Spirited Landscapes of Cuzco and the Sacred Valley: A Wine Enthusiast's Journey
In the heart of the Peruvian Andes, the ancient city of Cusco and its surrounding Sacred Valley offer more than just a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Incan Empire. This region is also a haven for food enthusiasts seeking innovative gastronomy experiences that showcase the best of Peruvian and Andean cuisine.
One of the top restaurants in the area is La Feria Valle Sagrado in Pachar, which was awarded Cusco’s best restaurant in 2019. Specialising in Peruvian Picantería and Criolla cuisine, the restaurant offers a flavourful fresh buffet focusing on regional ingredients. With vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, La Feria Valle Sagrado creates innovation grounded in local tradition.
Nearby in Cusco, Chicha by Gastón Acurio is an acclaimed restaurant that celebrates Andean cooking with a modern twist. Highlighting regional ingredients like olluquito, charqui, Andean trout, and traditional dishes elevated through innovation, this restaurant is a must-visit for food lovers.
Morena Peruvian Kitchen in Cusco is known for skillfully presenting local ingredients such as alpaca steak and quinoa risotto with flair. Combining traditional flavors with contemporary culinary techniques, Morena offers a chic setting for an unforgettable dining experience.
Ceviche Seafood Kitchen, despite being far from the ocean, demonstrates creativity with local produce and techniques in its innovative Peruvian seafood dishes like classic ceviche and tiradito de ají amarillo.
These restaurants showcase a blend of traditional Andean and Peruvian ingredients with contemporary culinary innovation, highlighting regional products like quinoa, trout, alpaca, and native peppers while accommodating diverse dietary preferences. For a true gastronomic experience in the Sacred Valley and Cusco region, these venues exemplify the fusion of local heritage and inventive culinary artistry.
Cusco, once the capital of the Incan empire, is surrounded by the extreme Andes mountains and is one of the most-visited cities in Peru and a popular destination for international tourists. The World Heritage-listed city is home to attractions such as the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu, the temples and plazas of Pisac, and the salt mines of Maras and the ancient terraces of Moray.
In addition to its culinary delights, Cusco also boasts a burgeoning wine industry. Apu, a winery in Curahuasi, produces striking Sauvignon Blanc, characterful Sangiovese, and small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Meanwhile, Destilería Andina, a distillery in Ollantaytambo, produces sought-after spirits from high-altitude Amazonian sugarcane with local herbs, flowers, and bitters.
For a unique tasting experience, Manuel Choqque, a multi-generational farmer in the Sacred Valley, has developed a fascinating drinks portfolio from super-species of tubers. His tasting room and laboratory in the Sacred Valley offers a mind-blowing experience with oca wines.
Pía León's tasting menu at Mauka offers a delightful exploration of the biodiversity of the Peruvian Andes, while Chuncho, a restaurant owned by the founders of Destilería Andina, offers brilliant cocktails from the spirits produced at the distillery.
Whether you're a foodie seeking innovative gastronomy or a history buff eager to explore the ancient wonders of the Sacred Valley and Cusco, this region offers an unforgettable experience that combines the best of Peruvian culture and cuisine. So, pack your bags and get ready for a culinary adventure of a lifetime!
- For a perfect blend of food-and-drink experiences and travel, consider visiting Cusco, known for its innovative gastronomy and burgeoning wine industry.
- Don't miss out on the unique wine-tasting experience at Manuel Choqque's tasting room in the Sacred Valley, showcasing wines made from local super-species of tubers.
- To truly immerse yourself in the lifestyle of Peruvian culture, check out news about the Cusco wine scene, such as the striking Sauvignon Blanc produced by Apu winery.
