When the sun goes down in Lima, it’s time to celebrate with a cocktail. Peru’s national drink, the pisco sour, is a must—and there are plenty of chic and festive spots to try one. Let this list point you to the best spirits in the city.
Lima, the vibrant capital of Peru, is rapidly evolving from a mere transit point for travelers en route to the ancient wonders of Cusco and the majestic Machu Picchu. It is blossoming into a world-class tourist destination that boasts a captivating charm all its own. Beyond the city’s innovative gastronomy scene, where culinary artistry takes center stage, and its rich colonial heritage, which whispers tales of a bygone era, Lima now offers a wealth of exceptional drinking destinations. New, hip neighborhoods, such as the bohemian district of Barranco, are experiencing a surge in popularity, challenging the established allure of areas like Miraflores. What does this exciting transformation mean for visitors? Simply put, an abundance of fantastic new drinking options are waiting to be discovered around every corner.
To help you navigate this exciting landscape, we’ve meticulously curated a diverse list showcasing some of the very best watering holes in Lima. From sultry and sophisticated cocktail lounges, where expertly crafted concoctions tantalize your taste buds, to classy and elegant converted colonial mansions, exuding an air of timeless grandeur, and even rocking dives, radiating an edgy and authentic vibe, there’s something to suit every taste and preference. And before embarking on your bar-hopping adventure, why not explore some of the great dining options Lima has to offer?
## Ayahuasca: A Colonial Mansion Cocktail Haven
Nestled in the heart of the up-and-coming Barracas neighborhood, a vibrant area situated just south of the equally trendy Miraflores district, lies Ayahuasca. This bar has quickly earned a stellar reputation among cocktail connoisseurs, solidifying its position as a must-visit destination in Lima. From the moment you step inside, Ayahuasca captivates with its chic and stylish design, housed within an elegantly converted colonial mansion. The interior is a visual feast, adorned with kaleidoscopic displays of colorful pisco bottles, showcasing over 50 different varieties, alongside captivating Peruvian artwork. This is a popular haunt for Lima’s fashionable in-crowd, so immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, order a expertly-made pisco cocktail, and groove to the nightly beats spun by talented DJs.
*Av. San Martin 130, Barranco, Lima*
## Barra 55: An Intimate Speakeasy Experience
For an intimate night out with that special someone, or if you’re on the lookout for romance to blossom, Barra 55 is an exceptional choice. This sultry cocktail bar embraces a speakeasy style, creating an air of mystery and exclusivity. With no prominent sign above the door, finding it feels like discovering a hidden gem. Inside, you’ll find top-shelf bartenders, many of whom are fluent in English, showcasing their skills in the art of handcrafted mixology. Not only will they expertly shake your martini (they boast an impressive selection of over 20 gins), but they’ll also be delighted to offer recommendations and insights into the best things to see and do in Lima. For those seeking alternatives, a selection of craft beers is also available, along with delectable tapas for patrons who desire a savory accompaniment to their drinks.
*28 De Julio 206, Barranco, Lima*
## Barranco Beer Company: A Brewer’s Paradise
While Barranco Beer Company may not strictly be a cocktail bar in the traditional sense, it undeniably reigns supreme as the most popular beer establishment in town. This expansive venue spans three floors and features an impressive array of eight original microbrews. The hefeweizen is particularly noteworthy and comes highly recommended. Enhance your beer experience with one of their tasty wood-fired pizzas or artisanal bread sandwiches, crafted with the finest ingredients. Barranco Beer Company also offers a decent happy hour, enticing 2×1 food specials, and occasional live music performances, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere. And for those who enjoy a touch of creativity, you can even discover some cool beer cocktails here.
*Av. Almirante Miguel Grau 308, Barranco, Lima*
## Café Victoria: Colonial Charm with a Modern Twist
It’s difficult to tire of the luscious colonial mansions that have been transformed into captivating cocktail bars, especially when they’re situated in Lima’s trendy Barranco neighborhood. Café Victoria is another must-visit destination, particularly for its stunning backyard patio, a true oasis complete with a lush grassy lawn. On weekends, DJs spin electro tunes, creating a vibrant ambiance. Inside, talented bartenders concoct lurid specialty drinks featuring high-end piscos, served in charming mason jar glasses. The café also boasts an extensive menu that caters to diverse palates, offering everything from traditional ceviche to mouthwatering BBQ.
*Pedro de Osma 135, Barranco, Lima*
## Huaringas Bar: A Miraflores Favorite
This entry takes us to Miraflores, one of the most popular areas for visitors to Peru. Huaringas is a dimly lit, welcoming neighborhood watering hole that exudes a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. They expertly prepare terrific pisco sours, along with refreshing *chilcanos*, a pisco/lime/ginger ale cocktail that is gaining popularity throughout the country. Take a seat at the bar and peruse their extensive menu of *bocaditos* (appetizers), including wings and spring rolls, perfectly complementing your chosen cocktail. For sushi enthusiasts, they even offer an all-you-can-eat sushi special from Monday through Wednesday.
*Ovalo Bolognesi 460, Miraflores, Lima*
## La Cachina Bar: A Local Gathering Spot
La Cachina Bar stands out as a fun and popular meeting point for locals, exuding a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The bar’s design features exposed brick walls and unique lights fashioned from Corona bottles, adding a touch of character. The mixologists here are truly impressive, showcasing their talent with unique Peruvian spins on classic cocktails like micheladas, martinis, and the old-fashioned. Live music is a regular feature on most nights, creating a lively and energetic ambiance. However, those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere might consider visiting during the week, when the bar is less crowded with young revelers.
*Manuel Bonilla 116, Miraflores, Lima*
## La Candelaria: A Cultural Spectacle
For those who appreciate a show alongside their cocktail, La Candelaria offers a truly unique and immersive experience. The venue features live Peruvian folkloric dance acts, which are a hit with both tourists and locals alike. It’s a fantastic way to experience the country’s rich Andean, coastal, and Amazonian heritage, with dance shows that continue into the early hours of the morning. The bar serves cool pisco cocktails, some with a tropical twist, and the kitchen offers a filling menu with a focus on steak and chicken dishes. Be sure to check the program of events on their website (shows are typically only on weekends) and make a reservation in advance to secure your spot.
*Av. Francisco Bolognesi 292, Barranco, Lima*
## La Noche de Barranco: Live Music and Good Vibes
For a rollicking night out accompanied by live tunes, La Noche de Barranco is the place to be. This large space caters to a diverse range of music aficionados, with one room dedicated to local music and another serving as a straight-up rock venue. The bar offers a selection of standard cocktails, including mojitos, piña coladas, and bloody marys, as well as a number of house cocktails, pisco sours, and chilcanos. Complement your drinks with a delicious ham and cheese plate or one of their other tempting tapas. Monday nights are reserved for jazz, while the rest of the week features a mix of various cultural music, tribute acts, and original rock and funk bands, ensuring a vibrant and unforgettable experience.
*Sanchez Carrion 199, Barranco, Lima*
B-2091