Peru in 2013 was on the cusp of a global gastronomic explosion, and Parts Unknown captured the country exactly as it transformed into South America’s undisputed culinary capital. This compelling Season 1 episode moves way past the typical backpacker trails of Machu Picchu, diving instead into the vibrant, chaotic, and fiercely proud food culture of Lima and its surrounding regions. Joined by his good friend and foil, Chef Eric Ripert, Bourdain explores a dynamic landscape where ancient Andean ingredients meet coastal bounty and international influences. From jungle-sourced cocoa to the razor-sharp precision of Japanese-influenced Nikkei cuisine, the journey highlights the profound diversity of Peruvian plates. Bourdain’s angle was remarkably clear: Peru is not just a historical postcard; it is a living, breathing epicenter of flavor driven by a passionate generation of chefs and street food vendors. To truly understand this dynamic country, you simply have to taste it. Here is the complete trail of the spots they uncovered.
The great Anthony Bourdain left his mark everywhere he went. When his death was announced to the world in June 2018, media throughout the globe chimed in and listed all the great things he had done for their respective country. Whereas before, tourists would shy away from exotic foods, thanks to him, travellers now go the extra mile to find and try local bites. With this in mind, here are all the restaurants Bourdain visited and the dishes he tasted when he shot Anthony Bourdain Peru for his show, Parts Unknown Season 1 Episode 7 (originally aired June 2, 2013). It can be a great idea to try these dishes as you enjoy your stay in the best hostels in Peru:
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DISH – Peruvian Ceviche
WHAT IS IT?
In Peru, ceviches have raw fish chunks that have been marinated in bitter orange or key lime juice. Slices of onions and chili peppers are then added, along with salt and pepper. It is served with slices of sweet potato and chunks of corn.
WHERE IS IT?
Chez Wong
Enrique León García 114
La Victoria, Peru
ANTHONY BOURDAIN PERU NOTES
Anthony Bourdain and Eric Ripert had an octopus and flounder ceviche at Chef javierWong’s restaurant.
DISH – Tiradito – Anthony Bourdain Peru
WHAT IS IT?
This Peruvian dish features sashimi cuts of raw fish in spicy sauce and reflects Japanese influence on the culinary traditions of Peru.
WHERE IS IT?
Chez Wong
Enrique León García 114
La Victoria, Peru
ANTHONY BOURDAIN PERU NOTES
The fish used for the tiradito that Anthony Bourdain and Eric Ripert sampled at Chez Wong is flounder. It was dressed with pecans, lime, aji limon and sesame oil.
DISH – Inchicapi – Anthony Bourdain Peru
WHAT IS IT?
Inchicapi is a traditional Peruvian soup made of hen. It also has peanuts and corn in it.
WHERE IS IT?
ámaz
Av. la Paz 1079
Miraflores, Peru
Unfortunately, this restaurant has since closed its doors.
ANTHONY BOURDAIN PERU NOTES
At ámaz, Anthony Bourdain and Eric Ripert had bread fruit and tuna in cashew sauce with plaintain vinegar to start their meal.
DISH – Patarashca – Anthony Bourdain Peru
WHAT IS IT?
Patarashca is a Peruvian dish of seasoned fish wrapped in a leaf and then cooked.
WHERE IS IT?
ámaz
Av. la Paz 1079
Miraflores, Peru
Unfortunately, this restaurant has since closed its doors.
ANTHONY BOURDAIN PERU NOTES
Anthony Bourdain and Eric Ripert sampled a catfish patarashca in this episode of Parts Unknown. They also had scallops with wild almonds, freshwater dashi, and paiche in a puree of guaje and a reduction of fermented yucca. Their meal closed with a serving of ants and chili pepper made with cashew nuts.
DRINK – Peruvian Caipirinha – Parts Unknown Peru
WHAT IS IT?
Peru introduces a spin to the Brazilian caipirinha through pouring it with pisco instead of cachaça. Lime wedges and sugar also go into the cocktail.
WHERE IS IT?
ámaz
Av. la Paz 1079
Miraflores, Peru
Unfortunately, this restaurant has since closed its doors.
ANTHONY BOURDAIN PERU NOTES
When they were at ámaz, Anthony Bourdain and Eric Ripert had glasses of Cashew Caipirinha.
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DISH – Anticucho – Parts Unknown Peru
WHAT IS IT?
Anticuchos are skewered meats, often a mix of beef hearts, chicken hearts, gizzard, tripe and other animal parts. The meat and offal are marinated in garlic, cumin, onion and a little vinegar before being grilled.
WHERE IS IT?
Anticuchos Doña Pochita
Av. Ignacio Merino 2328
Lince, Peru
ANTHONY BOURDAIN PERU NOTES
This street food stall is known to specialize in anticuchos.
READ MORE: PERU: ALL OF THE RESTAURANTS PICKED BY ANTHONY BOURDAIN ON NO RESERVATIONS
Bourdain’s journey through Peru stands as a testament to his deeply held belief that food is the ultimate expression of a country’s soul. This episode, featuring the playful and slightly competitive dynamic between him and Eric Ripert, offered a lighter, more joyous exploration compared to some of his heavier, politically charged voyages. Yet, it was historically significant in cementing Peru’s status on the global culinary map just as it began its meteoric rise into the mainstream consciousness. It highlighted the deep respect between traditional indigenous practices and modern culinary innovation. The adventure remains a compelling invitation to experience the high altitudes and bold flavors of the Andes yourself. Book that ticket, secure a table, and prepare for an adventure.
