Coming to Peru and wondering if it’s all guinea pig, alpaca, and not much else? Think again.
Cusco has evolved into a fantastic destination for vegetarian and vegan dining, with a wide range of excellent restaurants to choose from – thanks in part to its vibrant tourism scene. This historic city is not only rich in culture, but also a true haven for vegan food lovers.
Whether you’re a committed vegan, a curious vegetarian, or simply looking to explore a different side of Peruvian cuisine, you’ll find plenty of delicious options.
In this blog post, we’ve put together the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Cusco – everything you need to enjoy the city’s vegan scene.
When our vegetarian Co-founder arrived in Peru she lived almost exclusively on “Arroz a la Cubana” – the only vegetarian dish on offer. How things have changed, with a wide range of vegetarian options available.
Why Cusco is Perfect for Vegan & Vegetarians
Cusco isn’t just for history lovers and hikers, it’s also one of the best places in Peru for vegan gastronomy. There are plenty of places to explore and things to do in Cusco! With fresh local ingredients, traditional dishes, and a strong international food scene, it’s easy to eat well here as a vegan or vegetarian. Here is why:
1. Fresh, Local Ingredients
Cusco sits in the heart of a rich agricultural region, which means fruits, vegetables, and Andean staples like potatoes and grains are always fresh and widely available.
Thanks to Peru’s incredible biodiversity, you’ll also find unique ingredients such as lucuma, along with a wide variety of exotic fruits from the Amazonian rainforest, the coast, and beyond.
2. Naturally Vegan Cuisine
The Peru cuisine already relies heavily on ingredients like lentils, legumes, and sweet potatoes, making it easy to find vegetarian versions of local dishes.
3. International Variety
From Mediterranean to Japanese to classic comfort food, Cusco offers plenty of vegetarian and vegan options influenced by global cuisines.
Our List of Best Fully Vegan Restaurants in Cusco, Peru
Green Point Vegan Restaurant
This is probably the most well-known spot. Just a short stroll from San Blas plaza, in the trendy neighborhood of the same name, you’ll find Green Point, a true paradise for vegetarian and vegan food lovers. Even if you’re not vegan, this is the kind of place that might just change your mind.
What I really love here is the natural, relaxed vibe. The space is full of greenery, feels calm and welcoming, and sometimes there’s even live music, which makes it perfect for a slow, enjoyable lunch or dinner.
The menu combines classic vegan Peruvian dishes with creative Asian influences, so you get something a bit different from the usual. Everything feels thoughtfully prepared and full of flavor.
It’s a little pricier than some other vegan spots in Cusco, but the quality and experience are absolutely worth it. If you’re on a budget, I recommend going for lunch and asking for the “menu del día” – a set menu with a starter, main course, dessert, and a homemade drink for around 35-40 soles. This place is definitely the best to try vegan version of local Peruvian food.
And as a nice extra, right next door there’s a small vegan bakery and shop where you can pick up organic products, delicious vegan desserts, natural beauty items, and really good sourdough bread.
Vegan Cusco Experience: Govinda Lila
Govinda Lila is an easy-to-miss spot in Cusco that visitors quickly start recommending to each other. Located inside the San Blas market, it has built a quiet reputation as a favourite for vegan and vegetarian travellers looking for simple, home-style food.
People often highlight the same things: fresh, affordable meals, generous portions, and a very welcoming atmosphere. The menu is usually based on local-inspired dishes like quinoa mixed with vegetables, lentil burgers, soups, and vegan versions of Peruvian comfort food. It’s a simple place, with no fancy setup, but that’s exactly what I love about it.
Chia Vegan Kitchen Restaurant
Chia Vegan Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone interested in vegan food in the city.
It has a lively yet cozy atmosphere and a menu that goes far beyond typical “salad-style” vegan dishes. Dishes range from delicious appetizer, vegan ceviche, seitan burgers, hearty curries with rich curry sauce to fresh quinoa bowls.
The staff are warm, attentive, and genuinely passionate, often taking time to explain dishes and make guests feel welcome.
It can get quite busy, especially during peak hours, and service may slow down a bit, but the quality of the food made vegan and the overall experience easily make it worth the wait.
The Vegan Temple by Prasada
This place is a relaxed, bohemian-style vegan restaurant known for its creative dishes and laid-back, almost spiritual atmosphere.
Reviews often highlight the generous portions and the mix of international flavors – from curries and tofu dishes to burgers, pad thai, causa, and entirely plant-based mains. The food is fresh, filling, and clearly made with care.
The setting is part of the experience: low tables, floor seating, colorful cushions, and a slow, unhurried vibe that invites you to linger rather than rush. You can also enjoy some extras like board games, smoothies, and natural products sold on-site.
At the same time, I remember that service can vary quite a bit – sometimes it’s super fast and well organized, and on other days it can be the opposite, with longer waits during busy hours. But many people actually see that as part of the relaxed, “no rush” philosophy of the place.
Overall, The Vegan Temple by Prasada stands out as a creative, atmospheric spot – not perfect, but memorable for its vibe and wide variety of plant-based comfort food.
Parada Vegana Restaurant
Parada Vegana is a small but well-loved vegetarian spot in Cusco that has quickly gained attention for its homemade-style, authentic vegan food and relaxed, informal atmosphere.
Tucked into the city’s central area, it feels more like a local kitchen than a polished restaurant. Here, you are definitely eating freshly prepared, no-frills meals that are both affordable and filling. It’s one of those places in Cusco where you come for a quick lunch and end up staying longer than planned because of the easygoing vibe.
The menu is usually based on classic vegan offerings, making it a convenient stop for anyone exploring plant-based eating in Cusco. Guests often appreciate the value for money, especially compared to more tourist-focused restaurants nearby.
Overall, Parada Vegana stands out as a casual, honest, and budget-friendly option in Cusco’s growing vegan scene – perfect for a simple, satisfying meal without any fuss.
Top Vegetarian & Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in Cusco
Here are some great vegetarian restaurants that are also vegan friendly, which means that some dishes are either vegan or vegetarien.
El Encuentro Vegetarian Restaurant
In the heart of Cusco, “El Encuentro” is a small vegetarian restaurant that feels both local and welcoming. It’s far from a fancy dining spot, and that’s exactly its charm – a rustic, authentic atmosphere where locals and tourists sit side by side over simple, affordable food.
The lunch menu, usually under 15 soles, is one of the best-value meals in the city and comes highly recommended. It typically includes a comforting soup, a generous salad bar with freshly prepared vegetables and salads, and a choice of two main dishes, making for a balanced and satisfying vegetarian meal. You can also opt for the menu without soup at a slightly lower price.
It’s a popular spot, so during peak hours you’ll often share tables with local Peruvians, adding to the communal, everyday feel of the place. Arriving early, around 1 pm, is a good idea – after 2 pm the lunch menu is often sold out, although à la carte options are still available.
Before you leave, don’t skip the small sweet treat: the pralines priced at just 1 sol. Made with ingredients like nuts, coconut, and natural cacao chuncho, they’re a simple but delicious way to finish your meal on a local note.
Green Falafel Stand at Mercado San Blas
When it comes to finding a local, healthy vegetarian lunch in Cusco, the Green Falafel Stand in San Blas is a real hidden gem.
Tucked inside the lively San Blas market, right among the busy stalls, you’ll come across this small but popular stand serving fresh, simple Middle Eastern-inspired food.
Their combo for around 25 soles is especially good value, including a pita or durum stuffed with plenty of fresh vegetables, avocado, and salads, plus Andean fries and a refreshing drink. The portions are generous, and it’s easy to leave feeling more than satisfied. If you’re looking for something lighter, the regular options around 13 soles are also a solid choice. Nearby juice stands complete the experience with freshly made fruit juices served straight to your table.
The food is fresh and straightforward, though not heavily spiced by default – which some people actually enjoy. If you prefer a bit more flavour, you can always ask for extra salt or their homemade yellow chili sauce, which add a nice boost.
Service is relaxed and informal, very much in line with a traditional market setting. It’s not a place for rushed or highly attentive service, but the staff are friendly and happy to help when you ask.
There’s also a small sit-down location on Calle 7 Angelitos in San Blas if you prefer a slightly quieter setting outside the market.
Overall, it’s a great go-to for a quick, fresh, and affordable vegetarian bite in the heart of Cusco. They also offer a number of vegan options!
Best Restaurants with Vegan and Vegetarian Options
Here are some great restaurants where nobody has to compromise – perfect for groups with mixed tastes, where some are happily plant-based and others are still loyal to meat. Everyone gets what they want, and peace is maintained at the table.
Organika Restaurant
Organika is one of the standout vegan-friendly restaurants in Cusco and easily ranks among the city’s top dining experiences. Located in the historic center on Calle Ataud 154, it combines a beautiful setting with a calm, inviting atmosphere where you can enjoy a meal with a unique twist.
The restaurant offers two dining areas – a cozy indoor space and a charming courtyard garden – both creating a relaxed and memorable setting.
What makes Organika truly special is its focus on locally sourced, organic, and sustainable ingredients. The menu is inspired by local cuisine but thoughtfully reimagined, offering a wide range of gluten-free and many vegan options alongside traditional dishes like trout ceviche, alpaca, quinoa-based plates, and pisco sour.
The creativity in the kitchen really stands out when these ingredients come together in unexpected ways. One of the more talked-about examples is their arugula tiramisu, a playful twist that reflects the restaurant’s innovative approach to flavor.
Ofrenda Peruvian Healthy Food
Ofrenda Peruvian Healthy Food is known for its modern take on traditional local cuisine with a strong focus on fresh, organic, and wholesome ingredients.
Located in the historic center on Calle Plateros 359, it offers a stylish yet relaxed atmosphere. What makes it especially appealing for vegetarian and vegan travellers is its clear variety of options. The restaurant include vegan and vegetarian-friendly dishes, all marked and thoughtfully prepared.
At the same time, it’s not exclusively vegetarian, so it works well for mixed groups too – offering meat and seafood dishes alongside plant-based options. This balance makes it a reliable choice when everyone in the group wants something different.
New Garden
It’s not a fancy restaurant, but it has a comfortable, down-to-earth feel where you can just sit back and enjoy a relaxed meal without any pretence. The staff are friendly and attentive, which adds to the overall easygoing experience.
The health food is consistently fresh and satisfying, with a good variety of vegetarian and vegan-friendly options. I particularly like the quinoa soup, which always feels like a comforting and well-balanced choice after a day of exploring Cusco. The portions are generous, and the prices remain very reasonable, which makes it a great option for travellers on a budget.
Even though the location is a bit tucked away and the setting is simple, I find that this is part of its charm. It feels more like a local, everyday spot than a tourist-focused restaurant, which adds to its authenticity.
Kusykay Peruvian Craft Food
Kusykay Peruvian Craft Food is a popular restaurant just a short walk from Cusco’s main square, known for combining traditional Peruvian cuisine with a more modern, creative touch.
The food is often described as a highlight, with classic Peruvian dishes beautifully presented in an elevated, creative way. From ceviche and lomo saltado to alpaca and carrot soup, the flavours are bold and well-executed, with attention given to presentation as much as taste. Guests also frequently mention thoughtful extras like complimentary bites or small surprises from the kitchen.
Service is another strong point, with many visitors praising the staff for being friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu. At the same time, because the restaurant is very popular, it can get busy, and making a reservation is usually recommended to avoid long waits.
Vegetarian guests can usually find quinoa-based plates, vegetable starters, salads, soups, and pasta options, while plant-based lovers can opt for vegan dishes like grilled vegetables, quinoa bowls, and modified versions of certain mains without dairy or animal products. The staff are generally helpful in adjusting dishes, which makes it a good choice for mixed dietary groups.
Tips for Finding Vegan-Friendly Options
When exploring Cusco’s restaurants, finding plant-based options is usually quite easy with a few simple tips.
To avoid confusion, it’s often better not to say “no como carne” (I don’t eat meat), as this can sometimes be interpreted in different ways. Instead, it helps to be more specific and clear, using phrases like “soy vegetariano/a” or “soy vegano/a” to make your dietary preferences unmistakable.
It’s also a good idea to ask directly about ingredients, especially dairy, eggs, or any hidden animal products, since many dishes can be adapted even if they are not originally vegan. Don’t hesitate to customise your order – most places are happy to remove or replace ingredients if you ask.
A bit of research beforehand can also go a long way, as more and more restaurants in Cusco now clearly label vegetarian and vegan options on their menus. And if you’re feeling adventurous, cuisines like Indian or Middle Eastern often naturally offer a wide variety of vegan dishes.
Are Local Drinks Like Frutillada and Chicha Vegan?
Traditional Peruvian drinks are generally very vegan-friendly, especially the most iconic ones found in local markets and picanterías. Drinks like chicha de jora, a mildly fermented corn beverage, and frutillada, its strawberry-based variation, are typically made from plant ingredients such as corn, fruit, and water, making them naturally suitable for a vegan diet in most traditional settings.
Another popular option is chicha morada, made from purple corn, spices, and fruit, which is naturally sweet, refreshing, and also vegan. Fresh fruit juices, emolientes (herbal infusions), and various herbal teas are also widely available and usually vegan as well.
That said, as with any traditional preparation, small variations can exist depending on who makes them, so it’s always worth quickly checking how they are prepared. Overall, Peru’s local drink culture is a great discovery for vegans! You can even enjoy a vegan hot chocolate made with pure cacao paste and Peruvian spices – you will love it!!
Find Vegan Options in Cusco & Enjoy Your Meal!
In conclusion, Cusco is a true culinary paradise for both vegetarians and meat lovers alike. The city’s diverse food scene offers an impressive range of dining options that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re craving traditional Peruvian flavours or vegan creations, there’s something here for everyone.
We also have a great blog post about the best restaurants in Cusco – most of them are vegetarian friendly and offer plenty of entirely vegan options, so definitely check it out.
If you’re curious to dive deeper into Peru’s food culture, have a look at our posts on traditional Peruvian dishes and authentic Peruvian street food. We also explore iconic specialities like Peruvian ceviche (there is also a vegetarian version made with mushroom!), which is a must-try during your visit.
And of course, feel free to reach out if you’d like personalised recommendations for Machu Picchu, your Cusco itinerary, or the Sacred Valley. We’re always happy to help – whether it’s finding great places to eat or adding a culinary experience to your trip, like a food tour or a cooking class. You can also read more in our blog post about a Cusco cooking class for a hands-on way to discover Peruvian food.
