Once a hangout for agave purists, Maria Mezcal is now a beloved spot for Margaritas, tequila shots, and late-night quesadillas. Most nights end in spontaneous karaoke, with a largely female crowd belting out Luis Miguel and Maná like group therapy. It’s chaotic, cathartic, and kind of magical. Try the house Piñata de Burrito or a classic Paloma. 

With a strictly Peruvian lens on both food and drinks, Lady Bee has set the pace for Lima’s drinking scene – and has justly been appreciated by ranking 16th in World’s 50 Best Bars in 2024. Noma-trained chef Gabriela León works with her bartender husband Alonso Palomino to create a sophisticated seasonal take on their local environment, championing Peruvian products cultivated by smallholders, such as the mashua tuber. Cocktails to order include the 3 Sips Martini, with a garnish of salicornia, sea lettuce and Arapa trout caviar, or the LB Bloody Mary, made with Andean Aqará agave spirit. Currently located in Miraflores, the bar will move to a larger space in Barranco in July 2025. 

Acclaimed as the best sushi spot in Lima by Nobu Matsuhisa himself, Matsuei is an underrated local front-runner for Nikkei enthusiasts. By blending Japanese and Peruvian cuisines seamlessly, they bring heavenly bites to the table. Head to Matsuei for an understated date night and indulge in their exquisite selection of rolls (the Acevichado is a must) and their variety of surreal nigiri. We encourage you to try the Hotate Truffle, Torched Fatty Salmon and Angus Usura nigiris. To finish the evening, treat yourself to their Matcha crème brûlée. 

Churrería Manolo is a remarkable establishment known for its life-changing churros. Established in the 1960s, this beloved spot has become a local favourite, attracting both residents and tourists. The churros are freshly made, crispy on the outside soft on the inside and covered with lots of sugar. They are made with fillings of rich chocolate or dulce de leche (which is our suggestion). While this is a classic café that serves sandwiches all day long, we heavily recommend you to either order the churros or take them to-go.