Pachapapa

Traditional Cusco cooking from a clay oven, in a San Blas courtyard.

  • Address: Plazoleta San Blas 120
  • District: San Blas
  • Cuisine: Traditional Cusco cuisine, wood-fired oven
  • Chef / group: Grupo Cusco Restaurants

Pachapapa occupies a colonial courtyard on the Plaza San Blas, across from Cusco's oldest church, with a wood-fired clay oven at its center and, often, a harpist playing beneath the cherry trees. The kitchen serves traditional Cusco dishes such as aji de gallina, causa and chicharrones, alongside oven specialties like roasted guinea pig, suckling pig and slow-cooked oxtail. It remains one of the most approachable, atmospheric introductions to Andean cuisine for first-time visitors.

Why we chose it

  • One of the easiest, most welcoming places to try traditional Andean dishes like cuy without an intimidating menu or setting
  • The courtyard and live harp music create genuine local atmosphere, not a staged tourist show
  • Reliable, long-running reputation with consistent reviews over many years
  • Good fit for families and first-time visitors to Peruvian cuisine, not just adventurous eaters

Highlights

  • Colonial courtyard setting on the Plaza San Blas, opposite Cusco's oldest church
  • Wood-fired clay oven used for roasted guinea pig, suckling pig and oxtail stew
  • Traditional Cusco dishes including aji de gallina, causa and chicharrones
  • Live Andean harp music adds to the courtyard atmosphere
  • Nominated for Best Restaurant in Cusco, Premios Somos 2025

Ideal for

  • families
  • a first taste of Andean cuisine

Practical information

Hours
Daily, 12pm-10pm

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to order guinea pig (cuy)?

The oven-roasted guinea pig takes about an hour to prepare, so it's best to order it as soon as you sit down, or ask about advance ordering.

Is Pachapapa a good choice for first-time visitors to Peruvian food?

Yes, its menu covers a broad range of classic Cusco dishes in a relaxed courtyard setting, making it one of the more approachable places to try traditional Andean cuisine for the first time.

How far is it from the Plaza de Armas?

Pachapapa sits in San Blas, a short uphill walk of roughly 10 to 15 minutes from the Plaza de Armas, in one of Cusco's most picturesque neighborhoods.