Peru GF (Lima, Cusco, and Machu Picchu)
GF chicken sandwich and yuca fries from Atón, Cusco!
Hey fellow gluten-free adventurers! Let me give you the lowdown on my epic journey through Peru, hitting up Lima, Cusco, and of course, the iconic Machu Picchu. Get ready for a whirlwind of gluten-free delights!
First stop: Lima. I checked into the Hilton Miraflores and was pleasantly surprised by their gluten-free breakfast spread. Picture-perfect vegetarian omelettes and a plethora of fresh fruit greeted me each morning. And if you're hankering for some bread, just ask – they'll hook you up with some yuca bread. Plus, the executive lounge is a gluten-free snack haven with guacamole, nuts, and more!
Now onto the fun part – the foodie adventures! I signed up for an Airbnb cooking class (check it out here: https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/365618), and let me tell you, it was a blast. We toured local markets, picked out fresh produce, and cooked up a storm. From mouthwatering Lomo Saltado to crispy yuca fries and exotic fruit tastings, it was an unforgettable experience. And they even had gluten-free soy sauce for yours truly! (Overall, a very accommodating experience!)
Next up: Cusco. Altitude sickness hit us hard, but we managed to find some awesome gluten-free spots. First, we stumbled upon Atón, a cozy joint tucked away in an alley. The entire menu is gluten-free, folks! I indulged in some cheesy empanadas – my first time trying them, and they were absolutely divine. The menu also had lots of vegetarian options, and was great in English and Spanish!
Another highlight was Nuna Raymi. This place is a foodie's paradise, sourcing all their ingredients locally and serving up authentic Peruvian cuisine. I was blown away by the fresh guac and yuca fries, and my main dish of salmon on a bed of quinoa and veggies was pure perfection. And don't even get me started on the fruit fondue for dessert – talk about a sweet ending!
Now, let's talk Machu Picchu. Pro tip: Bring snacks. The options on the trains and in Aguas Calientes are pretty limited for us gluten-free folks. I managed to find some safe veggie rolls at a sushi joint and a decent caprese salad at a local restaurant, but it definitely wasn't enough to fuel all that hiking!
So there you have it, my gluten-free amigos. Peru is a paradise for foodies, and with a little planning, you can indulge in all the deliciousness hassle-free. Safe travels and happy eating!
