Amazon Basin, Peru
Amazonian cuisine often features ingredients directly from the river and rainforest. Bold tastes and unique preparations are common.
Look for dishes like "Juane," a rice-based dish with chicken and eggs, typically wrapped in bijao leaves. "Tacacho con Cecina" presents mashed plantains with smoked pork. "Patarashca" includes fish grilled in leaves, preserving natural moisture.
Many establishments in the city center offer traditional Amazonian and Peruvian dishes. Look for menus featuring fresh river fish.
Experience dining on the Itaya River. These venues provide unique views and a fresh river breeze.
Belén Market is a place for local produce, street food, and a genuine cultural food experience.
Visit Belén Market to witness a display of Amazonian produce, fish, and exotic ingredients. A genuine insight into local life.
A sensory experience, with many new sights and smells.
Some lodges or city tour operators coordinate cooking classes. Here, learn to prepare regional dishes using local ingredients.
A hands-on approach to Amazonian flavors.
Many Iquitos restaurants source fish directly from the Amazon. Enjoy varieties like paiche, dorado, and sabalo.
Taste the river's bounty at its freshest.
Grilled beef heart skewers, a popular Peruvian street snack.
Chicken or fish skewers, sometimes with vegetables, sold from street carts.
The Amazon offers a wealth of unique fruits and vegetables, often unavailable elsewhere. Their fresh flavor stands out.
Beyond juices, Iquitos has specific alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. These often use fermented fruits or grains.
The Amazon region, though not Iquitos itself, is a source of quality coffee and cacao. Local shops sell these products.
Many Amazonian dishes are naturally plant-based or vegetarian, especially those centered on plantains, yuca, or rice.
Specify dietary needs clearly when ordering.
Local markets and juice stands offer a wealth of fresh fruits. Juices and fruit salads are readily available.
A refreshing and healthy meal option.
A polite greeting ("Hola" or "Buenos días") is appreciated.
Sharing dishes is a common practice, especially with larger plates.
Engage in light conversation with your dining companions and staff.
Express gratitude for the meal and service ("Gracias").
Paiche, pirarucu, and various smaller species are staples.
Found in most main dishes.
Starchy vegetables forming the base of many Amazonian meals.
Often boiled, fried, or mashed.
Iquitos hosts various restaurants catering to different tastes, from casual eateries to fine dining.
Discover how to prepare Amazonian meals by attending a cooking demonstration or class. Learn about ingredients firsthand.
A few upscale establishments offer refined Amazonian dishes. These often pair local ingredients with modern culinary techniques.
Smaller, family-run restaurants dot the city. They offer authentic, homestyle Amazonian cooking at accessible prices.
Meals at jungle lodges are typically included in packages. These meals feature local ingredients adapted for visitors.
A mix of ground meat, rice, and vegetables, often spiced with local herbs.
A hearty local favorite.
Made from palm heart, often with tomatoes, onions, and lime. A refreshing option.
A jungle-fresh appetizer.
A sweet pudding made from various jungle fruits like plantain or aguaje.
Ice cream with unique Amazonian fruit flavors is popular in Iquitos.
Ripe plantains are often fried or baked and served as a sweet side or dessert.
Exploring Iquitos' culinary scene is an adventure. Be open to new tastes and local preparations. This region features distinct flavors.
