Whatever you’re craving chances are any one of the numerous food stands at Mercado 28 can deliver. Take your pick using this guide.
Did you read up on our recent experience at Mercado 28? Of course you did. And now you’re fighting the urge to close your computer, leave work early and try all the Peruvian food you possibly can in one location. But are you mentally prepared to choose from a whopping 17 food stands at Mercado 28?
Once you’ve climbed the stairs or gone up the elevator, you may find yourself a bit overwhelmed with the numerous eating options. Here’s a guide, in a counter-clockwise fashion, to study prior to your visit:
1. Provinciano
If you’ve lived in Lima as long as we have then you know that traveling to the provinces is like a charming albeit rustic breath of fresh air. Oh, you prefer big cities? This is where you can try the best of regional plates (think rocoto relleno, papa rellena, arroz con pato) without leaving Lima.
2. Agallas
Inspired by the flavors of northern Peru, the original location of this cevichería opened as recently as 2017 yet the recipes and ingredients used for plates such as arroz con mariscos are as traditional as it gets. Read our review here.
3. Sushi Pop
It’s nothing to compare to Maido, but it is one way to eat at a Mitsuharu ‘Micha’ Tsumura-owned restaurant without breaking the bank. An option for those craving sushi or Nikkei flavors (Gyoza burger, anyone?).
4. Oli Oli
Poke bowls, gotta catch ‘em all. And they are everywhere these days. Healthy and fresh, these lush quinoa or rice-based bowls leave no room for complaints.
5. Chinga Tu Taco
Authentic Mexican tacos with a sassy name. The corn tortillas are handmade and spot on. (“They’ll transport you to Mexico,” says Paola Lombardi, head of marketing at Mercado 28). We still have a soft spot for Burrito Bar in Barranco, but when hunger strikes and we find ourselves in Miraflores these tacos will do just fine.
6. La Patarashkita
Check out our review here of this food stand at Mercado 28, straight from Tarapoto. Specializing in jungle food, here is where you can try dishes like paiche (large Amazonian fish), juane (rice and chicken steamed in banana leaves) and cecina (salted and smoked pork). Wash it all down with a camu camu juice and give a little praise to Doña Eli, the owner, for bringing Lima this culinary gift.
7. Las Reyes
From the lines to the menu, everything is smaller at this miniature version of Isolina. We really wanted to try the Tinta con esquina cocktail, served from a wooden barrel, but ended up with a sub-par ceviche. Our recommendation: opt for the combo deal that allows you to taste both of the daily specials.
8. Pollo con Calle
To satisfy the pollo a la brasa, salchipapa and anticucho cravings. Basically, a polleria is a vital organ to Peru’s gastronomy scene, and Mercado 28 couldn’t go without it. “Peruvians are super polleros,” laughs Paola.
9. Street Burger
Our host, Paola, assured us that one of the best burgers in all of Peru can be had here. Sandwiched between homemade buns, the artisanal burgers are topped with just the right amount of toppings and sauces so that the ground beef can play protagonist. Want to supersize that? The 200 gram patties can be upped to 400 grams for an extra charge.
10. Aima
Wait, aren’t tapas a Spanish thing? By incorporating native ingredients, criolla flavors and modern techniques, these small plates are undeniably Peruvian. A giant batán on the counter will catch your attention, especially when the team is whipping up a creamy huancaina sauce or a spicy cocona salsa.
11. Massamable
Handcrafted pastas and pizza dough will make the gluten-tolerant feel welcome again. “They’ve managed to get the flavors and textures as close to true Italian cooking as can be,” says Paola.
12. Norte Seafood Bar
If you’re more likely to throw back a glass of white wine with cooked or raw fish than a national lager, this is for you. The line was too long to actually give this one a try, but based on the menu (Scallops in Cava Butter, Thai Shrimp Skewers) we’d describe this spot as sophisticated soul food inspired by the sea. (Go ahead and use that, it’s on us.)
13. Shawarma Al-Karam
How authentic are the falafel plats and shawarma wraps at this stand? Many of the spices used are imported directly from Palestine. Some of the tastiest hummus available in Lima (and perhaps all of Peru) can be had here, an especially delightful piece of news for vegans and vegetarians.
14. La Verité Patisserie
Wish you could say you had a Master’s Degree in Pastry? Us too. But at least here you can indulge in decadent desserts crafted from the master herself, Receba Dondero. Pair a slice of dense raspberry and maracuya cake or a macaron with a strong espresso for a jolly jolt of energy.
15. Dhaasu
Since the beginning of November until the end of 2019 (more or less), you can try out some authentic Indian food that’s seriously Delhi (sorry, couldn’t resist). Read our review here.
16. Blu
Need we say more? What started out as the neighborhood gelato shop in Barranco has evolved into a fleet of frozen treat carts set up in various districts around the city. Lucky us. If in stock, don’t pass up the chance to savor the Brazil nut (castaña) gelato. You’ll never scream for ice cream again.
17. La Barra
Before you judge this bar by it’s painfully uncreative name (‘the bar’), skim through its cocktail menu and prepare to be tantalized. Served in mugs big enough to cradle with both hands, aromatic cocktails featuring Peruvian pisco and gin are tricked out with national delicacies such as aguaymanto.
Hours: Sunday – Wednesday, 8am-12am; Thursday-Saturday, 8am-1am
Address: Vasco Nuñez de Balboa 755, Miraflores (at the intersection of 28 de Julio)
Cover photo: Mercado 28 Facebook
