WLP City Guides

The Lima Issue

The Lima Issue - White Label Project

A culinary delight, circular fashion hub & cultural fusion

Discover our curated Lima guide - from beautifully crafted alpaca knitwear to unforgettable food experiences. Our Lima guide brings together insider tips from local experts such as fashion curator and editor Angela, founder of K.A. Concept Store, showing us her favorite food spots in town. Renata, the founder of Cornelio Borda, shares her favorite cultural must-visits, and Lia, a multidisciplinary artist, her favorite places for inspiration.

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City guide overview:

ART, CULTURE & DESIGN

HOTELS & GUEST HOUSES

SHOP LOCAL BRANDS

FOOD, DRINKS & COFFEE

Google Maps Pocket guide

Renata Garcia-Menacho

Renata is the founder and creative director of the Peruvian accessories brand “Cornelio Borda”. She is based in Peru and Italy where she works directly with local artisans and factories.

Renata combines her love for her Peruvian cultural heritage and for Italian craftsmanship in each of her designs. She says: "Lima is not necessarily love at first sight, but when you really get to know it, you will love it forever."

Renata's 3 favorite places:

Angela Kusen

Angela is a Peruvian 1/4 Japanese, Art Director and Fashion Stylist with many years of experience working between cities such as Lima, Madrid, New York, London, and Paris.

Her work has been featured in many different print magazines and online publications around the world e.g. Vogue Mexico & Latin America, Vogue Spain, L’officiel Paris & Brazil, Jalouse and many more. Angela is also a founder of Ka Concept Store.

Angela's 3 favorite places:

Lía Lázaro

Lía Lázaro is a multidisciplinary creative artist from Trujillo, Peru, currently based between Paris and Lima. Her work, spanning fashion and other art forms, centers on Latin American identity, community and traditional culture.

Lía’s work has been showcased in renowned publications such as Vogue México, Another Magazine, i-D, and L'Officiel México. She has also collaborated with Latin American brands like ESCVDO, DNI, Mozhdeh Matin, De Loreta, and Jakhu Studio.

Lia's 3 favorites places:

Art, Culture & Design

For a journey into Peru’s ancient history, Museo Larco (Renata and Lia’s favorite) showcases stunning artifacts in a beautiful garden setting. Architecture and design enthusiasts can explore Lima’s rich heritage at Casa de Aliaga, or visit Callao Monumental for its unique street art scene. Be sure to visit Dedalo and Casa García Alvarado for eclectic art and decor pieces that capture the soul of Lima. Lima is also home to a thriving gallery scene. MALI and MAC present the best of both classical and contemporary Peruvian art.

Last but not least, don't forget to check out RF Studio Lima's architectural projects, blending natural landscapes with urban spaces using sustainable materials and honoring local ecosystems and craftsmanship.

Museums & Galleries:

Museo Amano, Museo Pedro de Osma, Yunuik,MALI, MAC, Museo Larco

Architecture & Art Workshops and Other:

RF Studio, Assouline, Kiara Hayashida Ceramics, Polen Ceramics Studio, Ermistad, Callao Monumental, Casa de Aliaga, Callao Monumental, Dedalo, Casa García Alvarado

MUSEO AMANO

Museo Amano is a hidden gem for history and archaeology lovers. Specializing in the preservation of ancient Peruvian textiles and ceramics showcases the Columbian heritage of Peru. A visit here feels like stepping back in time, as you discover the incredible techniques and artistry of cultures like the Chancay and Paracas.

NEO CONCEPT SPACE

Neo Concept Space is a contemporary haven for lovers of avant-garde fashion and design in the Miraflores district. It offers a curated mix of local and international brands, featuring unique pieces ranging from clothing to home decor. More than just a store, Neo fosters Lima's creative community through workshops and events that promote conscious consumption.

GINSBERG

Ginsberg is a contemporary art gallery founded in 2016 by Claudia Pareja. The mission is to exhibit contemporary artists in a context of critical dialogue and intellectual rigor. The program has been designed around the premises of conceptualism, research and innovation, with a special interest in preserving and understanding regional differences. 

Museo Larco

Museo Larco is a renowned museum that houses an extensive collection of pre-Columbian art. The museum is set in an 18th-century vice-royal mansion surrounded by beautiful gardens. Its collection spans over 5,000 years of Peruvian history, with artifacts that include ceramics, textiles, and metalwork from ancient cultures like the Moche, Nazca, and Inca.

Valentina Maggiolo

Visit Valentina Maggiolo's studio to learn more about her work, which reflects a fascination with archaeology and the interconnectedness of humans with nature. She creates semi-figurative landscapes that incorporate organic and geological elements such as rocks, bones, plants, and animals, drawing on pre-Columbian influences to explore themes of time and human existence.

Longhi Architects

Enjoy a creative workshop at Longhi Architects. A studio known for integrating natural elements, local materials, and cultural heritage into contemporary design buildings. Longhi's work often emphasizes the connection between architecture and its environment, using raw materials like stone and wood to create designs that feel both modern and rooted in tradition.

Hotels & Guest Houses

We’ve curated a selection of Lima’s most unique and stylish hotels and guesthouses, each distinguished by its charm ranging from pre to post colonial peruvian designs.

Fausto stands out for its modern and minimalist design in Miraflores district. Atemporal, a renovated 1940s mansion, provides a timeless retreat with a personal concierge service and art-filled interiors. The elegant Hotel B blends Belle Époque architecture with contemporary art, making it a cultural hotspot in Barranco.

For a boutique colonial feel, Casa República offers a historic setting with modern amenities, while Antiqua Miraflores combines old-world charm with Peruvian artistry. Villa Barranco by Ananay provides a homely atmosphere in a restored 1920s house, steps away from Barranco’s art scene.

For something more intimate, Casa Centenario by Wynwood delivers a blend of luxury and shared spaces in a classic mansion. Wasipai offers affordable and cozy lodgings which is perfect for travellers seeking local flair. Belma Boutique Bed & Breakfast features a charming, peaceful hideaway near Miraflores, ideal for unwinding after exploring the city.

ATEMPORAL

Discover the charm of Atemporal, a modern retreat that blends contemporary elegance with timeless style. Set within a classic 1940s mansion and offering old-school, personalized service, this boutique hotel is part of the renowned Andean Experience Group, celebrated for crafting bespoke luxury stays across Peru.

Book here

HOTEL B

Hotel B is a luxury boutique hotel in the vibrant Barranco district, known for its bohemian charm and artistic vibe. Housed in a beautifully restored Belle Époque mansion from the 1920s, designed by renowned French architect Claude Sahut, it features over 300 original artworks and installations throughout the property.

Book Here

VILLA BARRANCO

Nestled in the bohemian district of Barranco, Villa Barranco offers an elegant blend of historic architecture and modern luxury because it is an old republican house of 1916. Villa Barranco is restored with a frieze of mosaics, stuccoes, elegant balconies and French terracotta tiles; while inside look like a time capsule. Villa Barranco offers a serene retreat just steps from the coast and the district’s renowned galleries, cafés, and cultural landmarks

Book here

CASA CENTENARIO

More than just a place to stay, Casa Centenario by Wynwood offers the charm of a classic mansion with three private suites, a spacious kitchen, an outdoor dining area, and communal spaces dedicated to both relaxation and entertainment. As part of the Wynwood collection, known for its distinctive and artful accommodations, Casa Centenario provides a unique and refined experience.

Book Here

FAUSTO

Fausto is a sleek, upscale guesthouse that caters to design-conscious travelers seeking both luxury and serenity. Owned by local architect Fausto López, the property reflects a minimalist yet artistic aesthetic, combining modern interiors with curated artwork from local Peruvian talent.

Book here

WASIPAI

Located in Lima's bohemian Barranco district, Wasipai offers authentic boutique experience, blending Peruvian heritage with contemporary comforts. This guesthouse is owned and operated by a local family passionate about sharing Peru's culture through hospitality. With its lush courtyard and cozy communal spaces, Wasipai invites guests to relax and connect with fellow travelers.

Book here

SHOP LOCAL DESIGNERS

Lima’s design and shopping scene is a vibrant reflection of its cultural and creative spirit, seamlessly blending tradition, innovation, and sustainability. Embracing cutting-edge materials like Shiringa rubber as a sustainable leather alternative and luxurious alpaca carpet as a fur substitute, the city’s designers craft contemporary creations that redefine modern Peruvian style.

For instance, Cornelio Borda reimagines luxury accessories by combining Peruvian heritage with Italian craftsmanship, producing ethically made collections that honor skilled artisans. In Barranco, K.A. Concept Store serves as both a showcase for Peruvian designers and a hub for collaboration, offering handmade, sustainable fashion and art. Mozhdeh Matin brings together bold colors and soft textures in contemporary designs crafted from Peruvian Pima cotton and responsibly sourced alpaca wool.

For sustainable home and fashion design, Puna curates artisan-made textiles, ceramics, and decor, emphasizing slow, thoughtful craftsmanship. 

Shopping & Design:

Alpeso Vintage, Casa De Coca, Cornelio Borda, Escvdo, Fringe, KA Concept Store, Kero Design, Maqu, Mozhdeh Matin, Pampa, Punto & Lana, Sumy Kujon, Susan Wagner, The Sake Project, UNO The Store

Cornelio Borda

Cornelio Borda crafted luxury accessories through partnering with skilled artisans, shoemakers, and fashion experts from both Peru and Italy, the brand merge Italian expertise with Peru's cultural heritage. With a strong commitment to ethical practices, Cornelio Borda ensures artisans receive fair wages and meaningful, skilled work, resulting in unique collections proudly labeled as Made in Italy and Made in Peru.

SHop here

K.A. Concept Store

K.A Concept Store, founded by Angela Kusen, is a creative hub located in Barranco. The store showcases a curated selection of Peruvian designers, blending fashion, accessories, and art. It emphasizes craftsmanship and sustainability, featuring handmade products from local artisans. The store also functions as a community space, hosting events that integrate music and art, fostering a collaborative and artistic environment​.

Mozhdeh Matin

Mozhdeh Matin is a Lima-based fashion brand known for its contemporary designs and is named after its founder, who was born in Peru to Iranian parents. Her designs are inspired by a blend of vibrant colors, soft shapes, and interesting textures. The brand uses 100% Peruvian Pima cotton, known for its exceptional softness and brightness, as well as top-quality Alpaca wool, harvested responsibly without harming herds or habitats.

shop here

PUNA

Puna is a concept store based in Barranco that emphasizes sustainability and craftsmanship. The store offers a curated selection of home decor items, textiles, ceramics, clothing, and accessories that blend traditional Peruvian artisan techniques with modern design. Puna focuses on slow design, ensuring that each item is crafted with care and attention to detail, aiming to bring back patience, love, and appreciation in the creation process.

ESCVDO

ESCVDO weaves tradition into modern design, creating garments that celebrate the rich heritage and artisanal techniques of Peru. Founded by Chiara Macchiavello, ESCVDO collaborates with over 400 local artisans across the country, incorporating traditional handwoven textiles, natural fibers, and age-old craft methods into contemporary silhouettes. ESCVDO was selected as a Social Impact Brand of the Year 2023 by Latin American Fashion Summit (LAFS).

D.N.I.

D.N.I is a brand that fuses craftsmanship, nostalgia, and cultural storytelling. At its core, D.N.I is dedicated to showcasing the diverse, often overlooked facets of Peruvian culture. By drawing inspiration from the founders' upbringing in Casa Grande, a small district in northern Peru, the brand weaves together childhood memories with modern design. D.N.I values authenticity and collaboration, working closely with Peruvian artisans.

FRINGE

Fringe, founded by Lucy Barandiaran, partners with local artisans in Peru to create high-quality knitwear from materials like alpaca and Pima cotton. Fringe is deeply committed to sustainability, ensuring that the harvesting of alpaca wool is eco-friendly and humane. Their colorful collections range from crocheted summer dresses with intricate patterns to luxurious knitwear from cozy alpaca wool. Find a curation of pieces also on WLP.

Shop here

UNO

UNO The Store is a boutique that merges art and fashion into a singular, curated experience. Located in the Barranco district, this store features limited-edition apparel and accessories that defy conventional style from Peruvian designers.

DE LORETA

De Loreta celebrates Latin America's culture and landscapes with bold colors and vibrant prints. Founded by Anna Wakeham and Nicole Bolivar, the brand offers versatile, flattering silhouettes that let wearers add their personal touch. They use locally sourced natural fibers like Peruvian cotton and aim for a zero-waste cycle by reusing fabrics in future collections. De Loreta promotes sustainability by providing fair-trade jobs to women and working mothers in ethical conditions.

Tired of big city? Relax amongst history and Alpaca farms in Arequipa

Nestled in the shadow of three volcanoes, Arequipa is a city of striking beauty and rich history, known for its stunning white volcanic stone architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, blends colonial charm with a lively modern energy.

Visit the historic and pictoresque town of Arequipa and relax at the stunning design hotel CIRQA - a meticulously restored 16th-century monastery, offering seamless blend of historic elegance and contemporary design.

Food, drinks & coffee

Explore Lima’s food scene, a dynamic fusion of Japanese influences and the rich heritage of Peru’s native ingredients. Indulge in world-class fine dining or have hot chocoloate savoring the local flavors at a cozy café.

At Maido, experience the seamless fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisines, known as Nikkei, where every dish is a work of art. For a breathtaking setting, La Rosa Náutica offers stunning ocean views alongside expertly prepared seafood. For those seeking a more rustic yet refined experience, Merito combines local ingredients with international techniques. If you’re after a relaxed vibe with top-notch food, El Mercado is a bustling spot where market-fresh ingredients take center stage in every dish. Don’t forget to end your night with an aromatic cocktail at LadyBee for an extra good night’s sleep.

Cafés & Bakeries: Café de Lima, El Pan de la Chola, Cosmo Cafe (Angela’s Favorites), , Colonia and Co., Caleta Dolsa, Lila Dasso, Cafe Demo

Bars: Sastrería Martinez, Celeste, Carnaval, Cordial, La Gloria, LadyBee

Restaurants: Central, Verbena (Angela's Favorites), Huaca Pucllana, La Mar, Osaka, Costanera 700, Astrid y Gastón, Lima Cantina, Mayta, Indio Pizza, Cala, Maido, La Rosa Náutica, Merito,

KJOLLE

KJOLLE crafted by chef Pía León, celebrates Peru’s incredible biodiversity, with each dish showcasing unique ingredients from the country’s diverse landscapes, from the Amazon to the Andes. The menu is a vibrant exploration of flavors, colors, and textures, presented in a beautifully minimalist setting.

SEITE

Seite offers a farm-to-table dining experience, with ingredients sourced from sustainable farms, highlighting the best of Peru’s rich agricultural diversity. The menu combines traditional Peruvian flavors with modern culinary techniques, resulting in dishes that are both innovative and comforting.

EL MERCADO

El Mercado (Renata’s Favorite), helmed by renowned chef Rafael Osterling, captures the essence of Peru’s coastal cuisine. Known for its focus on fresh, locally sourced seafood, the restaurant blends traditional Peruvian flavors with contemporary techniques. From expertly crafted ceviches to grilled seafood specialties, it showcases the oceanic bounty in a lively, open-air setting.

LIMA CANTINA

As a sister restaurant to Lima London, Lima Cantina brings the same commitment to excellence and innovation in Peruvian cuisine to Lima.This vibrant and contemporary spot offers a fresh take on traditional Peruvian dishes , with a menu that marries classic flavors with inventive twists.

MAIDO

Maido offers an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the fusion of Peruvian and Japanese cuisines, known as Nikkei. With ingredients sourced from Peru’s diverse landscapes, the menu artfully blends traditional Japanese techniques with bold Peruvian flavors, creating dishes that are both inventive and deeply rooted in cultural heritage

PAN DE LA CHOLA CAFÈ

Pan de la Chola Café is known for its artisanal breads and cozy ambiance. Focusing on quality, the café offers freshly baked sourdough loaves, pastries, and sandwiches made from locally sourced ingredients.Pan de la Cholahighlights the best of Peruvian grains and flavors with a dedication to traditional baking techniques