2 Best Restaurants in Ica, The Southern Coast

El Cordón y La Rosa

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This bright little spot bills itself as a criollazo, a total onslaught of Peruvian coastal cooking. With its big portions and broad menu, it definitely lives up to that claim. The pescado a lo macho (fish in creamy seafood sauce) is delicious and filling, but really, you can't go wrong here, whatever you order.

El Otro Peñoncito

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Don't be surprised if chef Hary Hernandez (aka "Sir Hary") comes over to chat during your meal at this half-century-old Ica institution: his passion for food and hospitality is legendary. Among the dishes he might offer are pollo a la iqueña (chicken in pecan-and-pisco sauce) or fried trout. The recipes, he says, go back to his grandmother, and judging by the satisfied bellies of the customers, his abuela would be proud. Note: the restaurant has no written menu, so ask about prices before ordering.