Where to Eat Near Machu Picchu

Taking in one of the greatest wonders of the world can really work up an appetite. Eat up these tips on where to dine in the lost city of the Incas--or enjoy a few favorites down below in the town of Aguas Calientes. Whether you dine at Machu Picchu or save your appetite for town, atmospheric restaurants serving delicious Peruvian and fusion fare await. ¡Buen provecho!

At Machu Picchu

Tinkuy Buffet Restaurant: Situated inside Belmond's exclusive Sanctuary Lodge, this bountiful buffet restaurant features upscale Peruvian and international dishes in a beautiful setting just a stone's throw from the park. For a real treat, head to the Tampu Bar for a traditional pisco sour!

Machu Picchu Snack Bar: This convenient eatery is located just outside the main entrance gate and features a cute array of picnic tables nestled under umbrellas. You can indulge in a burger, soda and fries or opt for something a little healthier like a sandwich. It's also run by the Sanctuary Lodge, so the quality is surprisingly good.

In Aguas Calientes

Indio Feliz: This is the spot you just don't want to miss! Step inside the painted wooden doors and you'll feel like you've boarded a pirate ship. Richly adorned and decorated with treasures from around the world, you'll find a cozy atmosphere, excellent service and enormous variety of dishes to choose from. Opened by a Frenchman and his Peruvian wife, this French-Peruvian fusion menu of local Andean trout, chicken, omelets, generous soups and gorgeously presented salads will awe you. Incidentally, the two owners love one another so passionately and intensely that they have been married and divorced to each other four times over. This same passion flows through their cuisine and space, and the diners lined up out the door will attest to the restaurant's longtime status as a top local venue.

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel: On Backroads Peru trips, we stay at the fabulous Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo hotel. A fabulous restaurant—one of the tastiest spots in town—is located right inside. The menu features a number of divinely prepared Peruvian favorites, including rocoto relleno (stuffed pepper), Andean soup and lamb shank. Wrap up your evening with the heavenly lucuma mousse and you'll experience sweet dreams all night.

The Tree House: The Tree House offers up a warm and laid-back ambiance at the edge of the cloud forest, just a few blocks from the town square. Enjoy their open kitchen and artful fusion food that blends Peruvian traditions with Asian, Italian and Latin American flavors. If you're feeling adventurous, try the grilled alpaca in Andean chimichurri dressing! They even offer boxed lunches so you can bring a delicious, healthy meal with you to Machu Picchu.

Incontri del Pueblo Viejo: If you're hankering for comfort food—think pizza and craft beer—this is the spot. The restaurant features a large open fireplace in the middle of the room, the perfect way to warm up after a day in the Machu Picchu mist. On the Italian-based menu you'll also find plenty of pasta and grilled meats, all accompanied with access to a fresh salad bar.