From Kjolle to Isolina: A Culinary Journey Through Lima

Lima is recognized as the gastronomic capital of South America, and on several dates with my boyfriend, I had the chance to discover why. The city not only stands out for its history and culture, but it has also won the hearts of many and made its way to the tables of countless people. From 2021 to today, two of its restaurants, Central and Maido, ranked among the top spots on the "50 Best" list, standing out internationally. In total, seven Peruvian restaurants feature in this ranking, consolidating Lima as a top-tier gastronomic destination.

For those seeking unique experiences every night, the city offers an unparalleled fusion of tradition and innovation, reflected in every dish, from the simple menus at markets like the iconic Mercado 1 in Surquillo to restaurants like Central, the best restaurant in the world. During our evenings together, my boyfriend and I decided to explore some of the most iconic ones: Kjolle, Maido, and Isolina. Each left a mark on our memory and palate, not only because of the food but also for the atmosphere and the experience we shared.

Kjolle: A Sensory Journey Through the Andes

Our first stop was Kjolle, led by the talented chef Pía León, who was recognized as the best female chef in the world in 2021. From the moment we entered, the atmosphere enveloped us with a sense of tranquil sophistication. Kjolle’s proposal is deeply connected to Peru’s biodiversity, and this is evident in every detail of the menu. The entire experience was a journey through the various regions of the country.

We began the evening with a delicious purple corn bread, soft and warm, accompanied by a special butter. My boyfriend and I savored each bite; we had to share the bread, and it was so delicious that we felt jealous of the people dining alone because they could eat the whole loaf. The menu also offered a pairing option, which we eagerly chose. The sommelier knew exactly which drinks to select to complement each dish. One that surprised us the most was "Tubers", a tartlet combining layers of yuca, ollucos, and potatoes, highlighting the textures and flavors of these Andean products. It was one of our favorites for its creaminess and incredible taste. We liked it so much that we asked if we could order more.

The attention to detail at Kjolle is impressive. Every dish, every drink, everything is designed to create an experience that goes beyond food. Thanks to the explanations given by the waitstaff about each dish and its ingredients, I felt deeply connected to nature and Peruvian culture during this dinner, and I’m sure we both agreed it was one of our most special dates.

Maido: Nikkei Fusion at its Finest

Our next stop was Maido, the temple of Nikkei cuisine, a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian gastronomy. We celebrated a very special occasion: the 15th anniversary of the restaurant. To mark this date, the tasting menu was a collection of the most emblematic dishes.

One of the dishes that struck us the most was the "Amazonian Zigzag," an Amazonian sausage served with loche (a type of peruvian squash), combining earthy flavors with the intensity of the sausage. But the dish that surprised me the most was "The Intruder." I had never been a fan of foie gras, but the combination of it with potato, figs, and picarón honey was a revelation. The contrast between sweet and savory was so perfect that I couldn’t help but smile as I tasted it. Although I usually don’t enjoy liver, this time, Maido managed to change my mind. And what can I say about the "Cuy San"? It was a unique interpretation of the classic Arequipa dish, and for me, it was the best cuy I’ve ever had in my 22 years.

The Nikkei ramen, with its mix of squid, Amazonian dashi, and pork, was also a hit of the night. My boyfriend was fascinated, and we both agreed we’d return to Maido just for that soup. At the end of the night, the pairing was also an essential part of the experience. We tried several options, but my favorite was a drink called "Nori," made with nori seaweed and sake.

Isolina: A Celebration of Authentic Criollo Flavors

Finally, on a more relaxed night, we decided to go to Isolina, a laid-back spot in the Barranco neighborhood. From the moment we entered, we felt transported to an old tavern, with aromas that brought back memories of homemade cooking. The menu here is all about criollo dishes, the ones Peruvian grandmothers lovingly prepare.

We started with a “papa rellena” (stuffed potato) that was crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The meat filling had an exquisite flavor, and my boyfriend opted for the pejerrey sandwich, which turned out to be a delight: fresh and crunchy, he devoured it in no time. Then came the ceviche. I think I could never get tired of ceviche, and at Isolina, they prepare it to perfection: fresh fish, just the right touch of lime, and that blend of flavors that’s so refreshing, even for dinner.

For the mains, we couldn’t resist ordering the “ají de gallina”. Its creaminess and intense flavor made us feel like we were eating at home. We paired the meal with a refreshing chicha morada and, of course, a perfectly balanced pisco sour with just the right level of acidity.

The desserts also deserve a special mention. We ordered “suspiro a la limeña” and “crema volteada”. Both were so creamy and sweet that they provided the perfect close to the night.

(We ate everything so quickly that we couldn't take any photos.)

Conclusion: Lima, A Destination for Food Lovers and Cultural Enthusiasts

If there’s one thing that became clear from our experiences, it’s that Lima is not just a destination to visit but a city where one can fall in love with life itself. The cultural richness, the connection to traditions, and the fusion of international culinary influences make this South American capital a vibrant and nuanced place. Living in Lima means having access to world-class gastronomy, where every day you can discover a new place or dish that surprises. From the most exclusive to the most traditional, the city offers a diversity that never ceases to amaze.

Moreover, the city doesn’t just stand out for its food. Living here means immersing yourself in a rich cultural life, with museums, festivals, and a vibrant art scene that connects you with both the history and modernity of Peru. Whether you're drawn to gourmet experiences, a laid-back lifestyle by the sea, or the chance to be at the epicenter of Latin American culture, Lima has something to offer everyone. For those seeking a life full of flavors, emotions, and opportunities, moving to Lima promises a constant adventure in every sense.