What and where to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner in Lima, Peru: Paola Zevallos

Lomo saltado, a stir-fry with beef, onions, tomatoes, chips and rice is a local favourite.Credit: SHUTTERSTOCK

THE EXPERT

PAOLA ZEVALLOS

Whenever she is back home in Lima, Zevallos – who is currently based in Sydney as a representative for Peru's national tourism body, PromPeru – explores the newest food hot spots and stops by her favourite places.

Paola Zevallos.

BREAKFAST

If you're looking for a classic, traditional Peruvian breakfast, Dona Paulina Restaurante Chicharroneria is a must. Have the pan con chicharron, a flavourful Peruvian sandwich made from the unique combination of slow-braised pork and sweet potato topped with a crisp red onion relish. In Peru, it's traditionally eaten for breakfast, but I also think it's the perfect meal for any time of day. Calle Alcanfores 715, Lima 15074.

MORNING TEA

There are branches of La Mora Patisserie & Cafe in both Miraflores and San Isidro in the Lima district. It's the perfect spot for Saturday and Sunday brunch, but it's even better for your daily tea, coffee or juice. If you're looking for something the locals love, go for the mandarin with granadilla juice. If you need something a bit more caffeine heavy, the coffee menu will not disappoint. Whether it's a simple long black, moccha, or a spiked Irish coffee, these options taste amazing.

LUNCH

Not only has chef Moma Adrianzen worked in some of the best restaurants around Lima, he has also been head chef of restaurants around the world. Jeronimo is a reflection of chef Adrianzen's experiences, incorporating lots of global flavours into comforting dishes like his famous ceviche and tiradito. Trendy for both locals and tourists, Jeronimo is that cool neighbourhood bistro you would come into once a week if you lived nearby. I highly recommend sitting at the bar for an elevated experience. Try the Pisco Punch or La Ultima Chupada del Mango if you can. (Av. Mariscal La Mar 1209, Miraflores)

DINNER

Cala encompasses the meaning of "dinner and a view". This waterfront restaurant located right between Playa Los Pavos and Playa Barranquito has the perfect beachside vista to go along with some of the finest Peruvian dishes around. One of their best dishes is lomo saltado, a popular, traditional stir-fry that typically combines marinated strips of sirloin, onions, tomatoes, chips and rice. But unsurprisingly, the seafood here is sublime. See calarestaurante.com

DESSERT

Everything on the menu at La 73 Paradero Gourmet is delicious but the churros con chocolate is a must for dessert. While the menu changes four times a year, the classics that characterise La 73, like this one, remain. A visit to La 73 Paradero Gourmet is a fun and whimsical Lima experience. With a custom-designed interior replicating a Peruvian market's glossy tiled walls and counters, simple chairs and blackboard menus, this quirky eatery nonetheless takes food very seriously. See restaurantela73.com