Jenna RxTravelBug
We had SO much anticipation for this place– even locals speak of this as some of the best seafood in town, and it….. really did not live up to its hype and price.
Came here with some locals and STILL got horrible service. Be prepared to wait over an hour if going on a weekend, with little guidance that:
1) you need to order your fish/dish ahead of time otherwise it will run out
2) there is an unknown time in which you will have to wait
Recommend that you arrive early (BEFORE opening), especially if you are a large group and want to order a reasonably priced fish to split. Otherwise, stick to smaller dishes.
We got a big fish to share and a hot Uni dish, and had most of it prepared in ceviche style. It really was on of the worst ceviches I had during my trip there (and also noted to not be good by the locals I came with). Our bill ended up being $300 USD for the 4 of us, and it was very disappointing.
Vibe is pretty nice. Smaller downstairs area is more intimate, so try getting that if possible. They have a larger upstairs that seats bigger groups.
What is cool is that they do brew their own craft beer (2 types: lager, red ale?) and then make a bloody mary out of pisco, along with other fun drinks.
Would not come back.
… morebubbles
fresh and casual seafood. The no-frills picantería (a lunch-only restaurant ) lays out daily catches straight from the sea on a bed of ice in front of a blackboard listing what is available and the price per kilo. Simply select your fish and weight then decide how you want the kitchen to prepare it from one of eight ways. Choosing a few different preparations is recommended: a soup to start, followed by a ceviche and then grilled. Best to turn up early as there is a limited amount of fish on offer each day, once it’s gone, it’s gone. My personal al favorites- the jaladito, the grille fish with butter and garlic. The sea urchin ceviche is amazing as well. Great pisco sours. Good wine selection. DEFINITELY RECOMMEND
… moreLynnda & David G
We returned for another visit after 5 years…and there are quite a few changes- but the quality of food and service remained amazing. New: Permanent outdoor seating in front (4/5 small tables with umbrellas surrounded by planters of lush greenery). The Chakupe part of the business moved into the space adjoining behind the original place (appears to be by reservation in a bit of a Speakeasy style). This area has stainless steel brewing tanks in the center and mezzanine level tables above. Same: Whole Fish and Langosto and occasionally others (scallops, etc) packed in ice for you to see and choose. These are purchased by weight. Superb preparation and presentation of the many styles of which you get to choose a few. Small and noisy dining area (they have tried to soften it with a large indoor nice, but artificial, tree, however it does not really help). I can agree with several others that the Ceviche is not classic top notch Peruvian, but more Sashimi style because when you pick your whole fish, and they prepare it fresh, the fish does not have time to ‘cook’ and absorb all those flavours that most associate with local Ceviche. Also, it is definitely on the high priced side so not for value seekers.
… moreGirish Hingorani
Small place, super fresh sea food and amazing flavours….the preparation was very good and the service was top class. Reached at 12pm sharp and there were people waiting to get a table.
Had a 1kg lobster that was good for 4 and 4+ 4 razor clams grilled with 2 different sauces. The Bloody Mary with Pisco was perfectly Did not try any of the beers though.
… morePari Skondra
Amazing food and great pisco sours! We did have to wait a very long time for a table though, so make sure you have time to spare. You can have a drink at the bar while you wait.
… moreSean Trimble
La Picanteria was an amazing experience. The Langosta and Perihuela was absolutely delicious. One of my favorite restaurants in Lima!
… moreAndrés Valencia
La Picantería is a gem in Lima. The vibe is super relaxed, with bright-colored walls, rustic decor, and a really authentic, welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for going with friends or for a more chill lunch.
The food was amazing: we had a super fresh salad with avocado, tomato, and lettuce, and a fish dish with golden potatoes in an incredible sauce full of crispy garlic and chili. Everything was beautifully presented and full of flavor.
They also have a great little bar area with a nice wine selection and cocktails — it adds a cool, lively touch to the experience without being overwhelming. The glass of white wine we had was the perfect match for the food.
Definitely a place I’ll come back to and keep exploring. Highly recommend!
… moreAli Can Cakiroglu
A must!! Open only for lunch and offers fresh seafood… the ambiance, the service and the food can be an industry standard. We loved every dish we had and every other dish we saw on others table looked amazing!! The portions are big so sharing is totally fine. Drinks are delicious as well. La Picanteria is already in Top50 restaurants’ discovery list and one of the best restaurants in Lima!!
… moreHabib Al Mulla
La Picantería, housed in a rustic mansion. La Picanteria is a lunch only restaurant serving seafood in casual sitting.
The Ceviche here is praised for but I found it to be average.
… moreJack Michel
If you’re on vacation, update your hours on Google Maps. It’s not that hard. I traveled a long way to come eat here and it was closed. Super frustrating. Help out your customers by updating your Google hours. Also, if they’re closed, how are they getting other reviews from today? Seems like they have fake reviews.
… more