Wood-fired pizza in Cusco: the best pizzerias in the centre and San Blas

It may come as a surprise, but Cusco is one of the Peruvian cities with the most pizzerias per resident. Many have wood-fired ovens, and on cold Andean nights few things beat sitting near a warm oven with a freshly baked pizza. This guide explains where the tradition comes from, what to expect and which pizzerias we've confirmed are still open, with their area. We don't give prices or hours because they change: check opening times before you go.

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Why are there so many pizzerias in Cusco?

There are several reasons. International tourism created demand for familiar food among travellers who had been eating rice and potatoes for weeks. Cusco's baking tradition already used clay, wood-fired ovens, so adapting that know-how to pizza was natural. And the cold nights make a place with a lit oven a refuge. The result is a pizza culture of its own: thin or medium crusts, Andean cheeses and local combinations with ingredients like ají, rocoto or even alpaca.

Pizzerias in the historic centre

Pizzería Araví

On Calle Abracitos, a few minutes from the Plaza de Armas. A small, cosy place with a visible wood-fired oven, popular with travellers and locals alike.

Perú Pizzero

On Avenida El Sol, in a very central area. Handy if you're staying near the avenue or coming back from Qorikancha.

El Hornito a la Leña

On Calle Hospital, near the centre. The name says it all: a wood-fired oven and a simple atmosphere.

Stone Pizzas

On Calle San Pedro, steps from the market of the same name and the San Pedro train station area. Useful if you're exploring that neighbourhood.

• San Pedro Market in Cusco: what to eat, what to buy, opening hours and tips

Calle Recoleta and around

Calle Recoleta, which climbs from the Tullumayo area, has several options with a more local feel.

Pizzería Libertad

On Calle Recoleta. A neighbourhood pizzeria with a traditional oven.

Moto Rock Pizza Bar

Also on Recoleta, mixing pizza with a rock vibe and biker décor. A good fit if you want to continue the night at a rock bar.

• Rock bars in Cusco: where to hear rock and live music

Sumaq II

On Avenida Tullumayo, near Calle Recoleta. Another wood-fired option in the same area.

San Blas

La Nonna

In the Jardines del Inca area of San Blas. An option for dinner after exploring the artisans' workshops and the neighbourhood's steep lanes.

• San Blas, Cusco's artisan quarter: what to see, viewpoints and tips

How to choose a good pizzeria

• Visible oven: if you can see the wood-fired oven burning, that's a good sign.
• House-made dough: ask whether they make their own dough.
• Ingredients: local pizzerias use fresh Andean cheese or mozzarella; combinations with Peruvian ingredients are worth trying.
• Atmosphere: many pizzerias are small and family-run, ideal for a quiet dinner.
• Takeaway: almost all of them do takeaway, a good option if you're tired after a day trip.

Local flavours worth trying

Besides the classic margherita, napoletana or ham and cheese, many Cusco pizzerias have specialities with regional produce:

• Rocoto or ají amarillo pizza: a very Peruvian spicy kick.
• Lomo saltado pizza: a fusion take on the country's most popular dish.
• Alpaca pizza: alpaca meat is lean and mild; try it if you're curious.
• Choclo and Andean cheese: the giant-kernel corn of the Sacred Valley works surprisingly well.
• Mushrooms and Andean herbs: some use huacatay, a local aromatic herb.

Ask for the house speciality: it's usually the most interesting thing on the menu.

Vegetarian and vegan options

Pizza is one of the easiest vegetarian options in Cusco. Many pizzerias offer vegetable pizzas and some make vegan versions without cheese or with plant-based cheese. See also our vegetarian and vegan food guide.

• Vegan and vegetarian food in Cusco: Andean dishes, markets and useful phrases

Pizza on a budget

Pizzerias are a fairly affordable dinner for groups, since a large pizza shares well. For a cheap lunch, though, the menú del día at local restaurants or markets is unbeatable.

• Cusco on a budget: saving on accommodation, food, transport and Machu Picchu
• Local markets in Cusco: Wanchaq, Huancaro, Vinocanchón and beyond San Pedro

Notice: This guide shares advice and recommendations based on research and local experience. Prices, opening hours and rules may change: always check with official sources and operators. Cusco Tips is not responsible for third-party services, bookings or decisions made using these guides; some links are affiliate links (see our affiliate policy).