In Cusco, known for its rich history and majestic ruins, finding vegan restaurants might initially seem daunting. Yet, as Peru emerges as one of the world’s top culinary destinations, a change is evident. While the nation’s traditional dishes often revolve around meat and dairy, such as the smoky lomo saltado or the creamy aji de gallina, the recent years have seen an increasing number of restauranteurs catering to the desires of travelers seeking plant-based options. If you’re looking for vegan restaurants in Cusco, you’re in for a delightful discovery.
Whether you are a curious omnivore or a vehement vegan, we’ve gathered some of the best vegan restaurants in the Cusco region— including Machu Picchu— for your foodie consideration.
Vegan Delights in Cusco City
Freshly Made at Green Point
Offering dine-in and takeaway options, the dishes at Green Point are made-to-order which can assure you of two things: the ingredients are fresh and you can let the waitstaff know of any allergies you may have before they prepare your order. Enjoy the ravioli or vegan saltado (stir-fry) while surrounded by plants in the outdoor patio.
Address: Calle Carmen Bajo 235, Cusco
Homely Meals at El Encuentro
Located near the Plaza de Armas, this small eatery offers a set daily menu of simple home-cooked vegetarian and vegan dishes. In most cases, you can ask the waitstaff to make the dishes offered completely free of animal products (i.e. exchange egg for tofu). Budget-friendly.
Address: Tigre 130, Cusco
Garden Fresh Dishes at Organika Restaurant
Nestled in the heart of Cusco, Organika stands out not just for its location but for its commitment to freshness. Every dish boasts ingredients sourced directly from their lush gardens in the Sacred Valley. And while their menu isn’t exclusively vegan, their chefs are more than willing to craft dishes tailored to your vegan needs. Dive into a dining experience where tradition meets dietary consciousness, and where every bite is a testament to quality and care. Don’t miss out on this culinary gem during your stay. Try the sweet potato ravioli!
Address: Calle Ataud 154, Cusco (Historic Center)
A Fusion of Flavors at Greens
Another dining option near Cusco’s Main Square, the warm ambiance of Greens will win you over before you even place your order. Situated on the second floor of a colonial house, Greens offers a variety of international dishes and even has a brunch menu.
Address: Santa Catalina Angosta 135, Cusco
Artistic Vegan Dishes at Vida Vegan Bistro
Incredibly colorful and succulent vegan dishes are made from scratch at this Cusco restaurant, resulting in a thoughtful and unique dining experience. This hole-in-the-wall joint dishes out ceviches, soups, pizzas and even pisco sours, all of which are of course vegan.
Address: Calle Palacio 122, Cusco
Plant-Based Retreats in the Sacred Valley
Artful Desserts at Guru Verde
When you step into this sweet little family-owned spot and gaze upon the beautiful raw-vegan desserts you’ll be able to appreciate what little works of art these healthy treats are. Naturally sweetened with dates and gluten-free, they can be accompanied by tea or coffee.
Address: Av. Mariscal Castilla 640 (located inside Cuchara Llena restaurant), Urubamba
Diverse Menu at Cuchara Llena
Located on one of the main roads in Urubamba, Cuchara Llena offers daily vegan menús (set lunches that include an appetizer, main dish and drink). Healthy and budget-friendly, you can enjoy your meal on the outdoor patio or in the cozy seating on the second floor. Don’t forget to leave room for dessert, available at Guru Verde on the first floor! (See note above.)
Address: Av. Mariscal Castilla 640, Urubamba
Garden Inspired Dishes at Pajarito Sano
A small and cozy restaurant, Pajarito Sano (whose name translates to ‘healthy little bird’) offers an incredibly colorful and fresh daily menu. The well-traveled owner is a vegan herself and bases each dish on the seasonal produce grown in her nearby garden. After fueling up, stroll around the quaint and traditional Yucay neighborhoods.
Address: Av. San Martin 118, Yucay (in front of Plaza Manco II)
Global Flavors at Kawsaytika
Healthy, tasty and prepared with love, Kawsaytika offers a daily menu featuring hearty plant-based dishes. The flavors take from an eclectic mix of inspiration, so don’t be surprised to eat falafel one day and curry the next. Located in Calca, this can be a stop before or after a trip to the Pisac markets (a 30-minute trip by car).
Address: S. Bolivar 785 Plaza de Armas, Calca
Vegan Dining Near the Wonder of Machu Picchu
Luxurious Vegan Options at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
The expansive menu offered at this luxury hotel has plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. With advanced notification, many dishes can be adapted to guests’ dietary needs.
Address: Aguas Calientes, (at the base of Machu Picchu)
Fresh and Organic at GreenHouse Organic Concept
Imagine savoring the exotic flavors of mango ceviche or biting into a hearty quinoa burger after a rewarding trek down Machu Picchu. At GreenHouse Organic Concept, not only is your appetite satisfied, but your body is nourished. Located strategically in the pulsating heart of Aguas Calientes, this quaint eatery promises fresh juices bursting with regional flavors and dishes made from genuine ingredients grown in nearby organic farms. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, a rejuvenating treat that seamlessly blends taste and health. Don’t let your Machu Picchu adventure end without stopping by.
Address: Av. Pachacutec, Aguas Calientes
