If you’re visiting Lima and dreaming of indulging in a world-class Nikkei meal, you’ve likely heard of Maido.
Maido, the Michelin-starred restaurant, is one of the finest in the world. But with its prestigious reputation comes high prices and often months-long wait times for a reservation.
If that sounds a bit too steep for your travel plans, don’t worry—I’ve found a fantastic alternative that offers the same vibrant Nikkei flavors without the extravagant price tag: Gaijin Cocina Nikkei.
I love splurging on a Michelin Starred or Best Restaurant of the World, however, $1000 USD was just too steep to pay during my visit to Peru. Here is all you need to know about a more affordable option to Maido!
What is Nikkei Cuisine?
Nikkei cuisine is a fusion of Japanese techniques and Peruvian ingredients. It all started when Japanese immigrants arrived in Peru in the late 19th century.
Over time, their culinary traditions merged with local Peruvian flavors, resulting in a unique and delicious combination. Think fresh fish, citrusy flavors, and beautiful harmony of texture at Nikkei restaurants.
Today, Nikkei is one of Peru’s most celebrated cuisines, blending the best of both worlds—traditional Japanese precision with the bold and vibrant flavors of Peru. People love it for its variety and the unexpected flavors that make each bite an adventure.
Maido: The Nikkei Powerhouse in Lima
Maido is a global hotspot for Nikkei cuisine. Led by renowned chef Mitsuharu “Micha” Tsumura, Maido is ranked among the top 10 restaurants in the world.
Its tasting menu is an artful experience, a journey through Nikkei cuisine featuring dishes like sushi with Peruvian twists and mouth-watering sashimi infused with local spices.
But here’s the catch—dining at Maido can set you back over $500 per person! And unless you book months in advance, snagging a reservation is almost impossible, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Address: Calle San Martín 399, Miraflores, Lima, Peru | Google Maps
- Dress Code: Smart casual. Men typically wear collared shirts, and women are often seen in elegant yet relaxed attire.
- Website: Maido
Enter Gaijin Cocina Nikkei: A More Affordable, Yet Incredible Option
If Maido is fully booked or beyond your budget, don’t despair! Gaijin Cocina Nikkei is an excellent alternative, offering many of the same delicious flavors at a fraction of the price. I had the pleasure of dining here, and let me tell you, it was one of the best meals I have ever eaten!
Located in San Isidro, Gaijin Cocina Nikkei brings the same fresh ingredients and meticulous attention to detail as Maido, but in a more relaxed and wallet-friendly atmosphere.
The creators are former Maido chefs according to the server. They offer both a la carte items and also a tasting menu. The tasting menu is the chef’s choice and the menu items rotate on a daily basis.
The service is friendly and welcoming, and the food is just as creative. My server spoke English and explained each dish as it arrived. He also suggested cocktail pairings that were perfect!
Gaijin Cocina Nikkei
- Address: Av. Petit Thouars 3660, San Isidro 15046, Peru | Google Map
- Hours: Monday to Saturday, 1 pm – 3 pm (Lunch) and 7 pm – 10:30 pm (Dinner); Sunday 1 pm – 5 pm (Lunch).
- Dress Code: Casual chic. You can dress up or keep it simple—whatever suits your mood.
- Reservations: Gaijin Cocina Nikkei website
The Menu at Gaijin Cocina Nikkei
Gaijin Cocina Nikkei menu serves up a range of dishes that stay true to the Nikkei tradition. Expect bright flavors and fresh ingredients in every dish. The menu changes almost daily.
They only offer dishes that have the freshest of fish, so the menu will be decided on what is fresh that day. Here are some of the dishes from the tasting menu:
Tiradito Nikkei: This dish blends the thinly sliced sashimi style with Peruvian leche de tigre. It’s the perfect mix of zesty, citrusy flavors and buttery fish.
Nikkei Sashimi: My personal favorite was the one with avocado and crispy quinoa—it added the perfect amount of crunch to each bite.
Pulpo al Olivo: Octopus dishes are very popular in Peru, and they had one that was marinated in Japanese soy sauce and Peruvian spices, which is phenomenal.
Why Choose Gaijin Over Maido?
Affordability
The most obvious reason to choose Gaijin Cocina Nikkei is the price. You can enjoy a full meal at Gaijin for what you’d pay for a single dish at Maido. It’s a great way to experience authentic Nikkei flavors without breaking the bank.
I paid 200 soles ($54 USD) per person for an 8-course tasting menu plus our drinks. Cocktails, wine, and beer range from 30 -60 sols each. The total bill for two people, three drinks each, and the tasting menu was 760 sols (204 USD), which is a fraction of the cost of Maido and the same delicious food.
Availability
Unlike Maido, which requires reservations months in advance, you can often grab a table at Gaijin with much less notice.
A week or two should be enough, but it’s always safer to book ahead if you’re visiting on a weekend or holiday.
Relaxed Atmosphere
While Maido offers a high-end dining experience, Gaijin Cocina Nikkei is much more casual, making it a great option if you’re looking to enjoy fantastic food in a laid-back setting.
Since I was traveling through Peru to Macchu Pichu, Cusco, and Rainbow Mountain, the fanciest outfit I packed was a simple summer dress and I didn’t feel underdressed.
Insider Tips for Dining at Gaijin Cocina Nikkei
Best Time to Visit: Go during lunch for a quieter experience. The restaurant tends to fill up around dinner, especially on weekends.
Try Something New: While it’s tempting to stick to sushi and ceviche, Gaijin Cocina Nikkei’s hot dishes are fantastic too. Give the Nikkei-style grilled meats a shot!
Dress Comfortably: Unlike Maido, where you might feel the need to dress up, Gaijin is much more low-key. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy high-quality food in your favorite jeans.
Payment: They take both Peruvian sols as well as most international credit cards. No credit card is needed to hold the reservation either.
Reservations for Gaijin Cocina Nikkei
To make a reservation you must use the WhatsApp App to text the restaurant for availability.
Phone number: +51 913 560 658
Request in Spanish: ¡Hola! Me gustaría solicitar una reserva para el menú de tareas en la fecha XXX. ¿Tienes disponibilidad?
Final Thoughts: Maido or Gaijin?
Both Maido and Gaijin Cocina Nikkei offer an extraordinary Nikkei menu, but they cater to different types of diners.
If you’re seeking a once-in-a-lifetime gourmet experience and are willing to splurge, Maido is the place to go. But if you’re looking for fantastic food without the high prices, Gaijin Cocina Nikkei is an incredible alternative that will leave your taste buds just as satisfied.
Whether you choose Maido or Gaijin, you’re in for a memorable meal filled with the unique flavors that make Nikkei cuisine so special. Happy dining!
Nikkei Restaurants Tips
What is Nikkei cuisine, and how did it originate in Peru?
Nikkei cuisine is a fusion of Japanese techniques and Peruvian ingredients, created by Japanese immigrants who settled in Peru.
What is the currency in Peru and does Gaijin take credit cards?
Peru uses the Peruvian Sol (PEN) and yes, Gaijin takes all credit cards except AMEX.
How expensive is dining at Maido in Lima?
Dining at Maido can cost over $500 per person, making it a luxurious, high-end experience.
Can I visit Gaijin Cocina Nikkei without a reservation?
While it’s best to make a reservation, especially on weekends, Gaijin Cocina Nikkei often has more availability than Maido.
What are the key differences between Maido and Gaijin Cocina Nikkei?
Maido is a Michelin-starred, high-end restaurant, while Gaijin Cocina Nikkei offers similar flavors at a more affordable price in a casual setting.
What kind of dishes should I try at Gaijin Cocina Nikkei?
At Gaijin, try their tiradito Nikkei, Nikkei sushi rolls, and pulpo al olivo for a taste of their signature dishes.
Peru Travel Guides
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