Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Picantería Cusco
$$Restaurant
🕑 1 to 1.5 hours👶 Best for ages 5 and up. School-age children can appreciate trying new flavors and learning about Peruvian food culture, while the warm atmosphere works well for families with teens. Younger children are welcome, though the authentic spice levels in some dishes may be challenging for very picky toddlers.🧡 Saved by 17 families
About
Picantería Cusco offers families a welcoming introduction to authentic Peruvian cuisine in a traditional setting that embraces children. The restaurant features a dedicated kid-friendly menu alongside classic local dishes, making it easy for parents to share Peru's culinary culture with adventurous young eaters while having familiar options for pickier palates.
Highlights
- ✓Kid-friendly menu featuring milder versions of traditional Peruvian dishes
- ✓Warm, welcoming atmosphere where local families dine, providing authentic cultural experience
- ✓Opportunity to try chicha morada and other unique Peruvian beverages kids enjoy
- ✓Traditional décor and setting that helps children learn about Peruvian culture
- ✓Staff accustomed to serving families with children and accommodating special requests
Pro Tips
- 1.Ask your server to recommend mild dishes or request spice on the side, as traditional Peruvian food can be spicier than kids expect.
- 2.Visit for lunch (almuerzo) when many picanterías serve their best traditional dishes and the atmosphere is more casual and family-oriented.
- 3.Let kids try chicha morada (a sweet purple corn drink) as a fun, non-spicy introduction to Peruvian flavors.
- 4.Request a table away from the kitchen if you have very young children, as service areas can get busy during peak hours.
- 5.Consider arriving slightly before or after typical meal times (1-2pm for lunch, 7-8pm for dinner) to avoid the busiest crowds and get more attentive service.
Best Time to Visit
Lunch time (12pm to 2pm) is ideal, as picanterías traditionally focus on midday meals when families gather. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, and visiting during the dry season (May to September) means easier navigation through Cusco's streets to reach the restaurant.
What to Know
Prices are moderate ($$) and typical family meals cost $30-50 USD total. Cash is preferred at many traditional restaurants in Cusco, so bring soles (local currency). High altitude may affect appetites, especially right after arriving in Cusco.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round, though Cusco's dry season (May to September) is the most popular time for international visitors. During Inti Raymi festival in late June, restaurants may be busier and reservations are recommended. Some traditional dishes may vary by season based on local ingredient availability.
More Activities Near Cusco
Museum
Retablo Museum
$
The Retablo Museum offers a colorful, culturally immersive experience perfect for introducing children to Peruvian folk art. The three-dimensional retablo boxes depict vibrant stories from Andean life, featuring tiny handcrafted figures, animals, and scenes that captivate young imaginations. This small, manageable museum provides an educational yet entertaining way to explore local traditions without overwhelming little ones.
Museum
Andean Cosmovision Museum
$
The Andean Cosmovision Museum offers families a fascinating journey into the spiritual beliefs and worldview of Andean cultures through interactive exhibits and ancient artifacts. This intimate museum provides an excellent educational opportunity for children to learn about Peruvian indigenous traditions, astronomy, and the connection between nature and spirituality in a way that goes beyond the typical Machu Picchu tour.
Nature
Parque Arví
Free
Parque Arví offers families an unforgettable cloud forest adventure just outside Cusco, featuring a thrilling cable car journey over stunning Andean landscapes. Kids will be mesmerized by the aerial ride and excited to explore gentle hiking trails through misty forests where they can spot hummingbirds, butterflies, and other Andean wildlife. The combination of exciting transportation and nature exploration makes this a highlight for families visiting Peru.
Museum
Planetario de Cusco
$❤️13
The Planetario de Cusco offers an enchanting introduction to astronomy through interactive shows that bring the southern hemisphere's night sky to life. Located at high altitude where stars shine brilliantly clear, this planetarium uses immersive visuals and engaging presentations to spark children's curiosity about space, constellations, and Incan astronomy. It's an educational escape that works perfectly on a rainy day or as a fascinating complement to exploring Cusco's ancient sites.