Pescados Capitales

This stylish seafood restaurant in Miraflores attracts Lima’s business class, ladies who lunch and well-heeled families. What you will rarely see is tourists. It’s a true locals’ canteen and, despite being in the center of the city, feels like a day in the country. Canopies of stick thatching let in plenty of sunlight, and rustic touches like polished concrete floors, rough-hewn wood tables and worn leather chairs create an estancia aesthetic. The menu emphasizes fresh fish perfectly grilled. Start with calamari and zucchini or the tequeños, which are wonton pockets stuffed with vegetables, crayfish, egg and chilies. The seviche menu features variations named after great statesmen, like the Cebiche Gandhi, which comes with a curry and mango chutney, and the Cebiche Mandela, tuna and shellfish in citrus juice. While the soups and paellas are favorites, I suggest ordering a fresh fish from the grill with just a drizzle of olive oil and lemon. Tip: Visit the small boutique by the bar, which sells inexpensive jewelry.