Visiting Machu Picchu is an unforgettable experience, but after hours of exploring the ancient ruins, you’ll need a good meal. The challenge? Finding quality food in such a remote location. While Aguas Calientes—the small town at the base of Machu Picchu—has plenty of restaurants, not all are worth your time or money.
This guide will help you find the best spots to eat, whether you want a quick bite before catching the train back or a sit-down meal with a view. From fresh Peruvian dishes to hidden gems that most tourists overlook, here’s where to eat near Machu Picchu.
A Quick Overview
Because Machu Picchu sits high in the mountains with limited space, dining options are scarce. In fact, there are only two places to eat near the entrance: Tinkuy Restaurant, located inside the luxurious Sanctuary Lodge Hotel, and a simple snack bar offering basic grab-and-go options.
If you’re looking for a proper meal, you’ll need to head down to Aguas Calientes, the small town at the base of Machu Picchu. It’s about a 30 to 40-minute journey, either by bus or on foot.
Keep in mind that eating inside the archaeological site is strictly prohibited. However, just outside the entrance, there’s a small designated area where visitors can sit down and enjoy a packed meal. Many hotels, restaurants, and bakeries in Aguas Calientes prepare box lunches, which are great if you want something fresh and convenient to bring along. La Boulangerie de Paris, a well-loved French bakery, is a popular spot for picking up a quality box lunch before heading up to the ruins.
Traditional Peruvian Cuisine: A Culinary Journey
Peru is known for its world-class cuisine, and the Machu Picchu region is no exception. Dining here is more than just a meal—it’s a chance to experience the flavors and traditions of the Andes, passed down for generations.
Local dishes are built around a few key ingredients that have sustained Andean communities for centuries:
- Quinoa: Once considered the “gold of the Incas,” quinoa comes in different varieties and is used in everything from soups to salads.
- Potatoes: Peru is home to over 4,000 types of potatoes, and they appear in many traditional dishes, from creamy stews to crispy Andean-style fries.
- Corn (Maíz): The large-kernel Andean corn, known as choclo, is different from what you’ll find elsewhere, often served grilled or in soups.
- Alpaca: A lean and tender meat similar to venison, alpaca is a specialty in many high-end restaurants near Machu Picchu.
These ingredients form the backbone of traditional Andean dishes, offering a taste of the region’s deep-rooted culinary history. Whether you’re enjoying a hearty quinoa soup or a perfectly grilled alpaca steak, every bite connects you to the flavors of Peru’s past and present.
Must-Try Dishes: Ceviche and Beyond
While Machu Picchu itself isn’t a seafood hotspot, ceviche is Peru’s national dish and a must-try if you’re exploring the country. In Aguas Calientes, you’ll find fresh, locally sourced trout used in a mountain-style version of ceviche, marinated in lime juice and served with sweet potato and corn.
Beyond ceviche, here are some other traditional Peruvian dishes worth trying near Machu Picchu:
- Lomo Saltado: A flavorful stir-fry of beef, onions, tomatoes, and fries, blending Peruvian and Chinese influences.
- Aji de Gallina: Shredded chicken in a rich, creamy sauce made with aji amarillo peppers, cheese, and nuts, served over rice.
- Trucha a la Parrilla (Grilled Trout): Since fresh seafood is hard to come by in the mountains, trout from the nearby rivers is the go-to fish, often grilled and served with Andean potatoes.
- Rocoto Relleno: A spicy Peruvian take on stuffed peppers, filled with seasoned meat and cheese.
- Pachamanca: A traditional Andean feast where meats, potatoes, and corn are slow-cooked underground with hot stones, though it’s harder to find in tourist areas.
Many restaurants in Aguas Calientes serve these classic dishes, giving you a chance to experience authentic Peruvian flavors even in the shadow of Machu Picchu.
Eating in Machu Picchu
Since dining options inside Machu Picchu are extremely limited, you’ll need to plan ahead. There are only two places to eat near the entrance: a high-end buffet restaurant and a casual snack bar. Here’s what to expect from each:
Tinkuy Restaurant
- Type: Buffet
- Price: Approximately $45 USD per adult; $30 USD per child (as of 2025)
- Location: Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, adjacent to Machu Picchu entrance
Tinkuy is the only full-service restaurant at Machu Picchu, offering an upscale buffet with a mix of Peruvian and international dishes. Many ingredients are sourced from the restaurant’s own organic garden, ensuring fresh and authentic flavors. Large windows provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains, making for a dining experience as memorable as the ruins themselves.
Due to its exclusivity and limited seating, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season. If you’re looking for a comfortable, high-quality meal before or after your visit, this is your best option.
Machu Picchu Snack Bar
- Type: Snack Food
- Price: Moderate; for example, a personal pizza costs approximately $6.66 USD
- Location: Near the main entrance to Machu Picchu
If you need something fast and convenient, the Machu Picchu Snack Bar is your only option without heading down to Aguas Calientes. It serves sandwiches, snacks, beverages, and light meals, making it a practical choice for those on a tight schedule. While prices are higher than in town, the convenience is worth it.
There’s a covered seating area, which is a welcome break from the sun or rain, and service is surprisingly efficient despite the high tourist volume. However, if you prefer a more filling or affordable meal, consider packing a box lunch or waiting until you reach Aguas Calientes.
Upscale Dining: Fine Restaurants with Scenic Views
For those seeking a premium dining experience near Machu Picchu, several upscale restaurants in Aguas Calientes offer exceptional cuisine paired with breathtaking views:
Eating in Aguas Calientes
Inkaterra Hotel
- Type: International
- Price: Approximately $65: $90 USD per couple
- Location: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
This luxury hotel restaurant provides a refined dining experience in a stunning natural setting. The menu features sophisticated interpretations of Peruvian classics alongside international favorites.
Surrounded by tropical gardens and designed with elegant Andean architecture, the restaurant creates an atmosphere of exclusivity and tranquility. They use organic ingredients from their own ecological farm, ensuring the highest quality in every dish.
Cafe Inkaterra
- Type: International
- Price: Approximately $21.50 USD for a three-course meal
- Location: Near the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
A charming extension of the Inkaterra brand, Café Inkaterra offers a more casual dining experience while maintaining a commitment to quality. The riverside location provides a soothing soundtrack of flowing water as you dine. The diverse menu includes excellent coffee, fresh juices, and a range of Peruvian-inspired dishes perfect for lunch or an early dinner before returning to Cusco.
The Tree House
- Type: Standard
- Price: Starters from S/.24 (Approx. $7 USD); Mains from S/.38 (Approx. $11.50 USD)
- Location: Hidden on a side street in Aguas Calientes
Though tucked away, The Tree House is a hidden gem worth finding. It offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere with creative cuisine blends Peruvian traditions with contemporary techniques.
The unique décor incorporates natural elements, creating a dining environment that integrates with the surrounding mountains and forests. Their trout dishes and vegetarian options receive particular praise from visitors.
Casual Eateries: Quick Bites for Travelers on the Go
Not every meal needs to be a lengthy affair, especially when you’re eager to explore Machu Picchu or are traveling on a schedule. These casual eateries offer quality food with faster service:
El Mapi Hotel
- Type: Buffet Lunch
- Price: Approximately $25 USD per person
- Location: El Mapi by Inkaterra Hotel, Aguas Calientes
This alternative lunch option offers excellent value with its well-priced buffet. The contemporary atmosphere provides a welcome contrast to the more traditional settings of other restaurants. The buffet features a good selection of Peruvian and international dishes, with clear labeling for dietary restrictions. Their fresh fruit juices and dessert selection are particularly noteworthy.
Toto’s House
- Type: Buffet Lunch
- Price: Approximately $15 USD per person
- Location: Main street in Aguas Calientes
With its sprawling buffet and convenient location, Toto’s House is popular with tour groups and independent travelers alike. The restaurant offers a comprehensive selection of Peruvian staples alongside more familiar international options.
Large windows provide views of the bustling town, and the efficient service ensures you can enjoy a satisfying meal without dedicating too much of your precious time at Machu Picchu.
Eco-Friendly Dining: Sustainable Choices in Aguas Calientes
More restaurants near Machu Picchu are embracing sustainability, recognizing the need to protect the region’s fragile ecosystem. As tourism continues to grow, so does the responsibility to minimize environmental impact. Many establishments are stepping up by integrating eco-conscious practices into their operations, ensuring that visitors can enjoy high-quality meals while supporting responsible dining.
These efforts go beyond just using fresh ingredients—they involve thoughtful sourcing, waste reduction, and energy efficiency. If you’re looking for restaurants that align with sustainable values, here are some key initiatives to look for:
- Farm-to-table initiatives: Many restaurants partner with local farmers to source fresh, seasonal produce while reducing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transportation. This also ensures that the local economy benefits directly from tourism.
- Organic produce whenever possible: By prioritizing organic fruits, vegetables, and grains, eco-friendly restaurants reduce the use of pesticides and chemicals that could harm the environment and water sources around Machu Picchu.
- Reduced plastic usage: Single-use plastics are a major issue in tourism-heavy areas. Some restaurants have adopted biodegradable alternatives, replacing plastic straws, takeout containers, and cutlery with compostable or reusable options.
- Water conservation measures: Sustainable restaurants take steps to limit water waste, from using efficient dishwashing techniques to incorporating low-flow faucets. In a region where clean water is a valuable resource, this is a critical effort.
- Energy-efficient kitchens: Some establishments invest in energy-saving appliances and LED lighting or even use solar power to reduce their overall energy consumption. This helps lower carbon emissions while maintaining a high standard of food preparation.
By choosing restaurants that prioritize sustainability, visitors can enjoy an authentic Peruvian meal while playing a role in preserving the natural beauty of Machu Picchu.
These eco-conscious choices don’t just enhance your dining experience—they help ensure that future travelers can continue to explore and enjoy this world wonder responsibly.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Plant-Based Delights
Finding vegetarian and vegan-friendly meals near Machu Picchu has become much easier in recent years. As plant-based diets gain popularity worldwide, many restaurants in Aguas Calientes have adapted their menus to cater to travelers looking for meat-free options.
Peru’s rich agricultural heritage makes it an ideal place for plant-based dining, with an abundance of fresh vegetables, grains, and legumes that have been staples in the Andean diet for centuries.
Some of the best plant-based dishes to try include:
- Quinoa-based main courses showcasing this protein-rich Andean grain
- Creative potato dishes utilizing Peru’s incredible variety of tubers
- Fresh salads featuring local produce
- Plant-based versions of traditional Peruvian favorites
Many restaurants now offer dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus or can adapt their traditional dishes to accommodate plant-based diets. Always inform your server about dietary preferences, as some traditional Peruvian dishes may contain animal products in unexpected ways.
Local Insights: Recommendations from Aguas Calientes Residents
Indio Feliz
- Type: Peruvian-French Fusion
- Price: $6: $21 per dish
- Location: Jr. Lloque Yupanqui, Aguas Calientes
A favorite among locals and visitors alike, Indio Feliz offers dishes packed full of flavor in an inviting atmosphere. The French-Peruvian fusion creates unique culinary experiences not found elsewhere in town. The eccentric décor filled with artifacts and memorabilia creates a warm, homey feel despite the restaurant’s popularity. Their prix fixe menu offers excellent value and introduces diners to a range of flavors.
Chullpi Restaurant
- Type: Peruvian
- Price: Dishes cost a maximum of 40 soles (~$11 USD)
- Location: Av. Pachacutec, Aguas Calientes
For authentic traditional cuisine in an upscale setting, locals often recommend Chullpi. The restaurant honors ancestral recipes while presenting dishes with modern elegance. Their alpaca steak and trout ceviche are particularly renowned. The attentive service and thoughtful presentation elevate the dining experience, making this Machu Picchu Peru restaurant a standout option for dinner after exploring the ancient citadel.
Street Food: A Taste of Local Flavors
While Aguas Calientes isn’t known for extensive street food like larger Peruvian cities, several small carts and kiosks offer authentic quick bites:
- Anticuchos: Grilled beef heart skewers, a Peruvian specialty
- Choclo con queso: Large-kernel corn served with local cheese
- Empanadas: Savory filled pastries with various fillings
- Fresh juices: Made with tropical fruits unique to Peru
Street food provides affordable dining options and an opportunity to interact with local vendors and experience authentic flavors in their simplest form. Exercise normal food safety precautions, particularly looking for vendors with high turnover and good hygiene practices.
Dining with a View: Restaurants Overlooking the Mountains
The breathtaking scenery surrounding Machu Picchu makes for an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re savoring a meal with the Urubamba River rushing below or gazing at towering peaks through panoramic windows, restaurants in Aguas Calientes take full advantage of their stunning locations.
Many of these establishments offer outdoor terraces, rooftop seating, or large windows that perfectly frame the Andean landscape. While some restaurants charge a premium for the privilege of dining with a view, the combination of high-quality cuisine and a mesmerizing backdrop often makes it well worth the price.
Here are some features that make these scenic restaurants stand out:
- Panoramic windows with mountain vistas: Large, floor-to-ceiling windows provide uninterrupted views of the lush valleys and rugged peaks, allowing diners to enjoy the dramatic scenery even from indoors.
- Outdoor terraces for al fresco dining: Many restaurants have open-air patios where you can dine under the sky, surrounded by the natural beauty of Machu Picchu’s landscape. In good weather, this creates a serene and immersive experience.
- Rooftop seating with commanding views: Some restaurants take their views to the next level with rooftop dining, offering a stunning vantage point over Aguas Calientes and the surrounding mountains.
For special occasions, a romantic evening, or simply to make the most of your time near Machu Picchu, booking a table at one of these scenic spots is a great way to enhance your experience.
Makings of a Great Dining Experience: Ambiance and Service
Beyond just food quality, the best Machu Picchu Peru restaurant experiences incorporate:
- Atmospheric décor reflecting Andean culture and natural surroundings
- Knowledgeable staff who can explain traditional dishes and ingredients
- Comfortable seating allowing diners to relax after hiking Machu Picchu
- Thoughtful lighting enhancing both the food and the environment
- Background music that complements rather than overwhelms conversation
Many restaurants in the area have invested significantly in creating holistic dining environments that honor the magical setting of Machu Picchu while providing comfortable, memorable experiences for guests.
Cultural Influence on Aguas Calientes Dining Scene
The dining landscape around Machu Picchu reflects Peru’s extraordinary cultural fusion:
- Indigenous Quechua influences in traditional ingredients and cooking methods
- Spanish colonial heritage evident in certain preparation techniques
- Japanese and Chinese influences from generations of Asian immigration to Peru
- Contemporary international techniques brought by global chefs attracted to the area
This cultural melting pot has created a diverse and dynamic food scene that continues to evolve while maintaining strong connections to Peru’s culinary heritage. Even in this remote mountain setting, diners can experience Peru’s status as a world-class gastronomic destination.
Popular Cafés: Perfect for a Coffee Break
Boulangerie de Paris
- Type: Budget/Café
- Price: Individual items such as pastries and sandwiches are priced between $3 to $6 USD
- Location: Av. Pachacutec, Aguas Calientes
This charming French-owned patisserie offers excellent pastries, sandwiches, and coffee in a casual setting. It’s an ideal stop for breakfast or a light lunch, and they’re known for preparing quality box lunches that can be taken to Machu Picchu.
The fresh bread and pastries are among the best in town, and the reasonable prices make it a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to compromise on quality.
Other notable café options include:
- Café Inkaterra: Organic coffee in a lush garden setting
- Full House Café Restaurant: Excellent breakfast options and coffee
- Machu Picchu Café: Quick service and reliable WiFi near the train station
These cafés provide perfect resting spots before or after your Machu Picchu visit, allowing you to recharge with Peru’s excellent coffee and light refreshments.
Nightlife and Dining: Evening Spots to Explore
While Aguas Calientes isn’t known for wild nightlife, several establishments offer pleasant evening environments combining good food with drinks and occasionally live music:
- Craft beer bars serving local Peruvian microbrews
- Traditional chicherías offering fermented corn beer (chicha)
- Cocktail lounges specializing in pisco-based drinks
- Restaurant-bars with late service and ambient music
Most visitors to Machu Picchu tend to retire early due to early morning site visits or return trains to Cusco, but for those staying overnight in Aguas Calientes, these venues provide entertaining yet relaxed evening options.
Booking and Reservation Tips: Avoiding Disappointment
The limited number of quality restaurants around Machu Picchu means that securing reservations is often essential, particularly during high season (June-August):
- Book at least 1-2 days in advance for upscale restaurants
- Consider early or late dining times if you’re unable to secure prime-time reservations
- Have your hotel concierge assist with difficult-to-book restaurants
- Confirm your reservation the day before, especially if made well in advance
- Be aware of cancellation policies, as some restaurants may charge fees
Many top restaurants in the area now offer online reservation systems, making it easier to secure your preferred dining time before arriving at Machu Picchu.
Conclusion: Savoring Every Bite in Aguas Calientes
Despite its remote location, the culinary scene around Machu Picchu is surprisingly diverse. Whether indulging in a luxurious meal at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, savoring freshly baked pastries from a local café, or grabbing a quick street food snack, Aguas Calientes offers something for every taste and budget.
Dining here is an opportunity to experience the rich flavors of Andean cuisine. Peru’s ingredients, from quinoa and native potatoes to fresh trout and aji peppers, tell a story of tradition, history, and culture. Making food a key part of your journey allows you to connect with the region more deeply, complementing the awe-inspiring experience of exploring Machu Picchu.
Whether you’re looking for a quick, energizing meal before the climb or a relaxing dinner to reflect on your adventure, the restaurants of Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes welcome you with warm hospitality and unforgettable flavors.
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