San Francisco's Best Peruvian Restaurant [Updated 2025]

Having explored twelve different establishments across the city, I've savored a rich variety of flavors that reflect the vibrant culinary heritage of Peru.

Each restaurant boasts its unique charm and specialty dishes, making the journey both delicious and enlightening.

From traditional ceviches that awaken the palate to heartwarming stews that tell a story, the Peruvian cuisine in San Francisco is as diverse as the neighborhoods themselves.

Join me as I dive into the standout features, memorable dishes, and what truly makes one restaurant rise above the rest in this enchanting culinary landscape.

Limón

Highlights
Authentic Peruvian flavors
Delicious ceviche options
Great roasted chicken
Wonderful dining atmosphere
Must-try non-alcoholic drinks

The moment I stepped into Limón, I was greeted by an inviting atmosphere that felt just like a cozy Peruvian home. The tantalizing aromas wafting from the kitchen hinted at the culinary adventures that awaited. Let me tell you, the ceviche options are a true gift to the palate! Each bite is a burst of freshly caught seafood, marinating in zesty lime—with just the right balance of spice that leaves you craving more.

As a fan of roasted chicken, I couldn't resist ordering their Pollo a la Brasa, and it was nothing short of exquisite. The perfectly charred exterior hid juicy, flavorful meat that practically melted in my mouth. To wash it down, I recommend trying one of their must-try non-alcoholic drinks, which are refreshing and vibrant, complementing the meal beautifully.

I walked away from Limón not just satisfied but eager to return. The fusion of authentic Peruvian flavors and a wonderful dining atmosphere makes it a highlight of San Francisco's culinary scene. If you're seeking a dish that dances on your taste buds, Limón is a must-visit!

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BOCADO Peruvian Cuisine

Highlights
Diverse menu options
Artful presentation
Flavorful ceviche
Atmosphere with character
Need for staff improvement

Just recently, I had the pleasure of dining at BOCADO Peruvian Cuisine, a vibrant gem in San Francisco’s culinary landscape. Stepping inside, I was immediately captivated by the charming atmosphere, filled with colorful decor that beautifully reflects the essence of Peru.

The menu is a delightful journey through Peruvian flavors; I was particularly enchanted by the ceviche—a dish they seem to take great pride in. Each bite burst with freshness, elegantly paired with zesty lime and pepper, creating a symphony of flavors that danced on my palate. The artful presentation only added to the sensory experience, making it as pleasing to the eye as it was to the taste buds.

While my evening was mostly a culinary triumph, I did notice a few hiccups with the service. Some staff appeared overwhelmed, which slightly detracted from the overall enjoyment. Nonetheless, the passion that goes into the food made it easy to overlook these minor flaws.

If you're seeking an authentic taste of Peru, BOCADO is definitely worth a visit. With its delightful dishes and inviting ambiance, it is a restaurant that truly knows how to celebrate the bold flavors of Peruvian cuisine.

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Mixto Latin Cuisine

Highlights
Fresh and tasty fish and chips
Friendly and attentive staff
Clean and bright dining environment
Flavorful vegetable empanadas
Solid overall food experience

Mixto Latin Cuisine truly offers a delightful feast for the senses! Upon entering, I was immediately struck by the bright and inviting atmosphere—a perfect setting for savoring the vibrant flavors of Peru. The friendly and attentive staff added a layer of warmth that made my dining experience feel personal and enjoyable.

One dish that stole the show was their fresh and tasty fish and chips. The crispy exterior coupled with the succulent fish made it nearly impossible to resist. But hold on, don’t skip the flavorful vegetable empanadas! These little pockets of joy are packed with such delightful ingredients that I found myself daydreaming about them long after the meal was over.

Overall, Mixto provides a solid food experience that celebrates its Latin roots while inviting guests to explore Peruvian cuisine in a fun and engaging way. This place is definitely worth a visit for anyone seeking to indulge in authentic flavors without compromising on quality or service. So, if you’re in San Francisco and craving a culinary adventure, Mixto Latin Cuisine should be at the top of your list!

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Mi Lindo Peru

During my recent visit to Mi Lindo Peru, I was instantly captivated by the vibrant atmosphere and authentic flavors. The Ceviche Mixto was a delightful explosion of freshness, harmonizing lime and pepper with tender seafood. The Lomo Saltado, a classic stir-fry, burst with rich umami, while the accompanying rice soaked up every delectable drop. The warm hospitality made the experience even more inviting. If you’re seeking a slice of Peru in the heart of San Francisco, Mi Lindo Peru is a must-visit. It's a delightful adventure for your palate that feels like a culinary embrace!

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La Mar Cocina Peruana San Francisco

La Mar Cocina Peruana in San Francisco is a vibrant treasure trove of flavors! From the moment I walked in, the inviting ambiance and exquisite aromas enveloped me, setting the scene for an unforgettable meal. The ceviche, notably the Ceviche Clasico, is a refreshing dance of citrus and fresh seafood that sings of the coast. Their lomo saltado strikes a perfect balance between tender beef and tangy stir-fried veggies, while the pisco sour adds a delightful kick to the experience. Every bite feels like a joyful celebration of Peruvian culture—truly a destination for anyone craving authentic cuisine!

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El Aji Peruvian Restaurant

During my recent visit to El Aji Peruvian Restaurant, I was greeted with a warm atmosphere that immediately felt like a culinary embrace. The ceviche clasico sang with vibrant citrus notes, perfectly complemented by tender fish. I followed it up with the lomo saltado, a delightful clash of flavors where the savory beef danced with crispy fries and aromatic onions. Each bite was a celebration of Peruvian heritage. The attentive staff made the experience even more enjoyable, ensuring every moment was special. If you're craving a taste of Peru, El Aji is undoubtedly a gem worth savoring in the heart of San Francisco.

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El Porteño I Restaurant Chifa Peruano

Stepping into El Porteño I Restaurant Chifa Peruano feels like a delightful culinary adventure. The lively ambiance sets the stage for a memorable meal. I savored the aji de gallina, which was perfectly creamy, a comforting hug in a bowl. For a twist, the chifa fusion, notably the lomo saltado, danced with flavors that delighted my palate. The attentive staff radiated warmth, making my experience even more enjoyable. If you’re hunting for an authentic taste of Peru with a creative spin, El Porteño is a must-visit gem. You might just find your new favorite spot in the heart of San Francisco!

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Piqueo's

My visit to Piqueo's was nothing short of a culinary delight! Nestled in the vibrant Mission District, this gem offers a cozy ambiance that instantly feels like home. The ceviche was a refreshing treat, bursting with zesty flavors that danced on my palate. The lomo saltado harmonized tender beef with perfectly sautéed veggies, and each bite was a celebration of Peru's rich culinary heritage. Don’t skip the pisco sour—it’s a must! Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned aficionado of Peruvian cuisine, Piqueo's promises an unforgettable experience that should not be missed!

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SFCeviche 19

I recently dined at SFCeviche 19 and was thoroughly impressed by their vibrant take on traditional Peruvian cuisine. The ceviche was nothing short of a revelation—fresh, zesty, and perfectly balanced, a dish that sings with the ocean's essence. The ambiance, infused with warmth and a dash of artistic flair, adds to the overall charm. I also indulged in their aji de gallina, which was creamy and comforting, showcasing the depth of Peruvian flavors. If you seek a culinary adventure that dances on your palate, this gem is definitely worth a visit!

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El Porteño II Restaurant & Bar

As I stepped into El Porteño II, the vibrant decor instantly transported me to Peru! The ceviche was nothing short of a revelation—fresh, tangy, and bursting with flavor. I savored every bite of the lomo saltado, where the tender steak danced harmoniously with sautéed vegetables and fragrant rice. The ambiance buzzed with warmth and authenticity, making it feel like a home away from home. The pisco sour? A delightful twist on the classic—smooth yet zesty! If you’re seeking a true taste of Peru, this gem is a must-visit. El Porteño II promises an unforgettable culinary adventure!

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La Fina Estampa

Nestled in the heart of the Mission, La Fina Estampa is a delightful Peruvian gem that captures the essence of Peru on a plate. From the moment I entered, the vibrant colors and warm ambiance embraced me. I savored the ceviche clásico, bursting with fresh flavors that danced on my palate. The lomo saltado was a hearty masterpiece, perfectly blending the tender beef and zesty spices. Each bite felt like a joyful celebration! Their pisco sour—simply divine, a must-try! If you’re seeking a true taste of Peru, look no further; La Fina Estampa truly delivers an unforgettable culinary experience.

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Mochica

Nestled in the vibrant Mission District, Mochica delights with its authentic Peruvian flavors. From the moment I stepped inside, the lively decor and warm ambiance captivated me. I savored the ceviche de pescado, which danced on my palate with its zesty marinade, showcasing a perfect balance of citrus and spice. For the main course, the lomo saltado was a hearty delight, with tender beef sautéed to perfection. Each dish told a story, rich with tradition. The attentive staff further enriched my visit, making me feel right at home. In summary, Mochica offers a true taste of Peru – a must-try in San Francisco!

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