Arequipa is one of the finest cities in Peru for gastronomic adventures, and at very reasonable prices. Though it has few chic, luxuriously appointed places, the historic center and zones just beyond its limits are well stocked with excellent, atmospheric casual restaurants. Arequipeño cooking is famous throughout Peru, and several restaurants specialize in traditional regional specialties, a couple of them with fabulous outdoor seating and excellent views of the volcanoes. Several restaurants in the historic quarter -- the two streets leading north from the Plaza de Armas, Santa Catalina, and San Francisco are the main hub of nighttime activity -- specialize in traditional Arequipeño cooking, though two of the best are a short taxi ride beyond downtown.
