Ancestral Gastronomy/Traditional Picanterías A Journey of Flavors and Tradition

ITINERARY

Meeting at Plaza San Francisco (Historic Center of Cusco)

The starting point will be the central Plaza San Francisco, where your gastronomic guide will provide an introduction to the history of picanterías in Cusco, their origins in the colonial era, and their importance within Andean culture. An overview will be shared of the culinary fusion between Andean recipes and Spanish cuisine that gave rise to this tradition.

Guided tour of San Pedro Market

The group will walk to San Pedro Market, one of the oldest markets in the city. Here, visitors will learn about the native ingredients used in Cusco cuisine:

• Different types of corn, potatoes, and chili peppers
• Andean cheese, local herbs, chuño, and quinoa
• Fresh produce used in typical dishes

At this stop, there will also be a small tasting of:

• Chuta bread, fresh cheese, and honey
• Natural juices made with seasonal fruits
• Infusion of traditional medicinal herbs

Tasting at the Traditional Picantería “La Chomba”

Aboard local transport, we will head to one of the most authentic picanterías in Cusco: La Chomba, located in the traditional neighborhood of Santiago. Founded more than 50 years ago, this establishment is a symbol of typical Cusco food. Here we will taste:

• Cusco Adobo (an iconic dish based on pork in chicha de jora sauce)
• Cuy Chactado (served with golden potatoes and Creole zarza)
• Quinoa soup with Andean herbs
• Chicha de jora served in a traditional poto

The guide will explain the preparation process and the customs surrounding these dishes.

Visit and lunch at the “Mamá Trini” spicy restaurant

The tour continues to the cozy “Mamá Trini” spicy restaurant, famous for its wood-fired food and recipes passed down through generations. Here you will enjoy:

• The traditional Chiri Uchu, a festive dish with ingredients such as guinea pig, chicken, cheese, cochayuyo, corn tortilla, and more.
• Andean Pachamanca, served in a banana leaf (depending on the season).

During the tasting, family anecdotes will be shared and the cultural significance of each recipe will be explained.

Cultural Closing Ceremony and Recipe Delivery

We will conclude the tour with a talk about the historical and cultural significance of picanterías in the Cusco identity. Participants will receive a printed recipe for one of the dishes they tasted, so they can take a little piece of Cusco home with them. The guide will answer any questions and provide additional recommendations.

What does the Traditional Picanterías Tour of Cusco include?

Professional food guide (Spanish or English)

You will have an expert guide in traditional Cusco cuisine, with extensive knowledge of history, native ingredients, preparation of typical dishes, and the cultural context of the picanterías. The guide will accompany you throughout the tour, answering questions and explaining the meaning of each dish you taste.

Guided tour of San Pedro Market

Includes a complete tour of the main aisles of Cusco’s most traditional market. You will see and learn about essential ingredients of Andean cuisine, such as:

• Different varieties of native potatoes, quinoa, giant white corn from Cusco, yellow chili pepper, chuño, among others.
• Tasting of typical products: chuta bread, Andean cheese, honey, seasonal fruits, and freshly prepared natural infusions.

Local tourist transportation (roundtrip)

Includes transportation via tourist transportation or safe local taxis for the journey from the historic center to the picanterías located in traditional neighborhoods such as Santiago or Tío. All transfers are scheduled to optimize tour time.

Tasting of traditional dishes in two traditional picanterías

You will taste at least five carefully selected dishes representative of traditional Cusco cuisine in two different establishments. Among them:

• Cusco Adobo (pork in chicha de jora sauce and panca chili)
• Cuy Chactado (crispy stone-fried guinea pig)
• Chiri Uchu (a typical cold dish from Corpus Christi)
• Quinoa soup with Andean herbs
• Pachamanca (seasonal options)

Traditional beverages included

During the tour, you will try local beverages such as:

• Fermented chicha de jora, served in a traditional poto
• Natural barley or purple corn soda
• Hot muña or lemon verbena infusion at the end of the tour

Cultural explanation of each dish

• Each dish will be accompanied by a detailed explanation of its origin, ingredients, cooking techniques, and the festivities where it is customary to consume it, allowing for a complete and cultural gastronomic experience.

Complimentary Andean recipe book (physical or digital)

• At the end of the tour, a printed or emailed recipe will be provided with the step-by-step preparation of one of the dishes tasted.

Small Groups and Personalized Attention

• The tour operates in small groups of a maximum of 10 people, ensuring a close, engaging, and authentic experience at each location.

What is not included in the Cusco Traditional Picanterías Tour?

Pickup from your hotel or accommodation

• The tour does not include pickup from your accommodation. The meeting point is Plaza San Francisco, located a few minutes’ walk from Cusco’s Plaza de Armas.

Additional Consumption Outside the Tour Menu

• Dishes, desserts, or drinks not included in the main tasting will be charged separately by each establishment.

Personal Expenses at the Market

• If you wish to purchase souvenirs, snacks, local products, or native ingredients at the San Pedro Market, these will be at your own expense.

Recommendations for the Cusco Traditional Picanterías Tour

Comfortable and Light Clothing

• Cusco can experience variable weather throughout the day. We recommend dressing in layers: a T-shirt or polo shirt, a light sweater, and a windbreaker or rain jacket. Wear comfortable clothing for walking, as the tour includes walking through the historic center and local markets.

Appropriate Footwear

• Wear sneakers or comfortable closed-toe shoes, preferably with non-slip soles, as some sections of the tour may include cobblestone streets, uneven sidewalks, or wet markets.

Hydrate before and during the tour

• Although drinks are included during the tasting, it is recommended to bring a personal water bottle. Cusco’s climate can be dry, especially in months like June, July, or August.

Be careful if you are sensitive to spicy foods.

Traditional picanterías in Cusco often use Andean chili peppers, fermented chicha de jora (a type of chili), and intense seasonings. If you have a sensitive stomach, please inform your guide in advance so they can help you select milder options during the food tour.

Inform your guide in advance if you have any food allergies or restrictions.

• Although this tour celebrates Cusco’s traditional cuisine, some picanterías do not have vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free options. If you have any specific conditions (such as peanut, dairy, or meat allergies), please inform them before booking.

Bring a charged camera or cell phone.

• This tour is full of unique visual moments: from the stalls of San Pedro Market to the colorful presentations of the dishes. It’s also possible to photograph the preparation process or chat with local cooks.

Bring some cash.

• Although most services are included, you may want to purchase typical products at the market (such as roasted corn, dried chili peppers, artisanal sweets, or textiles) or leave a tip for the guide or cooks. It is recommended to bring between S/20 and S/50 extra.

Protect yourself from the sun and the weather

• Cusco is located at over 3,300 meters above sea level, and the sun can be intense during the day. Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap. Also, keep a light coat handy in case the temperature drops.

Keep your cell phone on silent in the establishments.

• Many of the picanterías in Cusco maintain a traditional, family-friendly atmosphere. Respect the environment by turning off music or other sounds, and ask permission if you want to record videos inside the kitchens.

Arrive 10 minutes early at the meeting point.

• The tour starting point is Plaza San Francisco (Cusco). Please be at the designated location at least 10 minutes early to avoid delays and make the most of each tour stop.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Cusco Traditional Picanterías Tour

Is it safe to eat in markets like San Pedro?

Yes, popular markets like San Pedro and San Blas offer hygienic and healthy food. It is recommended to visit them early to ensure freshness and cleanliness of the stalls.

Is Cusco food very spicy?

Generally, no. Some dishes include chili peppers (rocoto or ají amarillo), but they are not usually excessively spicy. If you prefer less heat, just ask for it during the Cusco food tour.

What traditional drinks are included in the tour?

You can try chicha de jora, chicha morada/frutillada, and coca mate or muña infusion, ideal for accompanying dishes and aiding digestion at altitude.

What is the best season to take the tour?

The dry season (May to September) is ideal for exploring markets and picanterías, with stable, rain-free weather.

What vegetarian or gluten-free options are there?

Traditional dishes such as fava bean kapchi, quinoa soup, sweet tamale, corn with cheese, and humitas offer alternatives for vegetarian or gluten-free diets.

Does altitude sickness affect the enjoyment of food?

Yes, it can. It is recommended to:

• Stay hydrated
• Avoid heavy meals upon arrival
• Drink herbal teas such as coca tea to better acclimatize

What pre-Hispanic methods are used in picanterías?

Still preserved are techniques such as:

• Cooking in earth ovens
• Use of clay pots
• Wood-burning stoves

These practices enhance the traditional Andean flavors of Cusco

How did the Inca and colonial traditions influence Cusco gastronomy?

• Cusco cuisine is a blend of Andean ingredients (potato, quinoa, chuño) with techniques and ingredients brought by the Spanish, creating a unique and ancestral cuisine.

Can I buy local products during the tour?

• Yes, you can purchase Andean ingredients (dried chili peppers, purple corn, quinoa), souvenirs, or snacks at the San Pedro Market, although they are not included in the tour price.