Isolina — Restaurant in Lima Metropolitan Area

Im a creature of habit - my go to for traditional Peruvian Criolla style food has always been Tanta. With limited meals over the course of a vacation, I was incredibly skeptical when a friend recommended Isolina, but we decided to give it a shot. Reservations are hard to come by (in fact they were booked out for two weeks), but my friend had a connection and was able to get me and my daughter a reservation. We were staying in Miraflores and the restaurant is located in the neighboring neighborhood, Barranco. We decided to make a day of it and walk over and do some walking tours of the neighborhood until our reservation at 6:30. Barranco was very cool with some awesome street art (but I digress). As 6:30 came upon us we were famished and promptly arrived at Isolina for our 6:30 reservation - only to realize I had misread the date and showed up two days early. Isolina handled this like champs and managed to accommodate us fairly quickly (with about 5 minutes) - I was relieved that we would not have to figure out a plan B with a hangry 6 year old in tow. The restaurant had a very cool and cozy vibe, unassuming from the outside and the inside a mix of traditional and authentic stylings. We impressed with the decor, but the true test was about to come. My daughter and I shared two causas (because she couldn’t decide between the Causa de Limeña y the Causa de Pulpo de Olivo) and our favorite dish: Ají de Gallena. They also had a great selection of sugar free juices, my daughter had a Maracuyá (Passionfruit) and I had a pisco sour, very generous glass. Cutting to the chase, everything was absolutely outstanding! My daughter was correct in wanting both causas. The Limeña lived up to the hype as the traditional causa and the pulpo de olivo was a great take on a traditional cevicheria dish. The Ají de Gallena was up for debate, I thought it was outstanding generous portion for their “small” option; the sauce was rich, thick and creamy and the chicken and potatoes were cooked to perfection. My daughter’s one critique is she preferred a little bit of a lighter va thicker sauce, otherwise it was perfect. If you made it this far in the review, thank you. TL;DR, Isolina will definitely be in our future Lima...

Isolina is an absolute gem nestled in the heart of Barranco, Lima. This charming restaurant offers an unforgettable culinary experience, showcasing the vibrant flavors of authentic Peruvian cuisine. From the moment you step inside, the warm and welcoming ambiance instantly makes you feel at home.

The menu at Isolina is a true celebration of Peruvian gastronomy. Every dish is crafted with utmost care and attention to detail, resulting in a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Each bite is a delightful journey through Peru's rich culinary heritage.

The standout feature of Isolina is undoubtedly their commitment to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. It's evident that the chefs take great pride in showcasing Peru's diverse produce. Whether it's the tender and succulent seafood, the perfectly grilled meats, or the vibrant array of vegetarian options, every dish bursts with authentic Peruvian flavors.

The staff at Isolina are not only incredibly knowledgeable but also incredibly friendly. They go above and beyond to ensure that guests have a memorable dining experience. Their recommendations are spot-on, and they are always ready to accommodate any dietary preferences or restrictions.

The cozy ambiance of Isolina adds an extra layer of charm to the dining experience. The rustic decor, combined with warm lighting and tasteful details, creates a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. It's a place where you can relax, indulge, and savor each moment with your loved ones.

In conclusion, Isolina is an exceptional restaurant that truly captures the essence of Peruvian cuisine. With its delicious food, friendly staff, and inviting ambiance, it is an absolute must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic culinary adventure in Barranco, Lima. Prepare to be delighted and leave with a satisfied palate and a heart...

If you’re visiting Lima and looking for a culinary experience that feels both comforting and elevated, Isolina in Barranco should be at the top of your list. From the moment we sat down, we knew we were in for something special. A friend of mine in Lima recommended and it didn't disappointed us! Unforgettable Dishes That Capture the Soul of Peruvian Cuisine Here’s what we tried—and loved: • Papa Rellena con Salsa Criolla y Crema de Ají Crispy on the outside, flavorful and hearty inside. The pickled onions and smooth ají cream brought it all together beautifully. • Seco de Asado de Tira con Arroz y Frijoles This dish was the showstopper. Fall-off-the-bone beef ribs drenched in a rich cilantro sauce, paired with tender rice and perfect canary beans. Deep, soulful, and generous in portion. • Suspiro a la Limeña Delicate, creamy, and perfectly balanced. A traditional Peruvian dessert that ended the meal with a sweet sigh, just like its name suggests.

Cocktails That Surprise and Delight We also explored their Coctelería Barranquina, and it didn’t disappoint: • La Colorada Spritz and Morena Mía Both drinks were refreshing and creative. Beautifully presented, balanced, and ideal for sipping while enjoying the Barranco breeze. Atmosphere & Service • The ambiance is relaxed and authentic, with a rustic touch that reflects the restaurant’s heritage. • The staff was warm, knowledgeable, and attentive without being overbearing. • Everything felt intentional—from the vintage-style plates to the carefully selected garnishes in the cocktails.

Isolina is more than just a place to eat—it’s a tribute to Peruvian home cooking elevated to perfection. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, this is a spot that reminds you why Lima is one of the top food destinations...