Love at first spoonful
Certain moments have the power to transform our lives completely, like winning the lottery or expecting our first baby. For me, it was that fateful day in the Peruvian Andes when I first tasted my grandmother’s delectable cuisine at the tender age of eight.
Witnessing her cooking over a firewood stove in her adobe kitchen, using ingredients from her garden, while the Quechua language infused her seasonings and my family radiated a sense of identity and unity, that dish became a defining moment in my life. It awakened within me a realization that there were countless more experiences like this awaiting discovery, so I went after them and without knowing it, that day would be decisive for the beginning of something extraordinary:
I connected with my passion for food and the creation of remarkable culinary journeys.
Nurturing my Culinary Knowledge
From a young age, I assisted my parents in their jobs, immersing myself in the rich tapestry of Peruvian cuisine. My mother, introduced me to the diverse flavors of local markets, while my father, took me on expeditions across the agricultural fields of Peru in his giant truck; I also got to know hidden gems in the form of roadside restaurants, where only the truck drivers find them, who are actually great food critics.
During my student years, I worked as a cab driver to sustain myself, I had the privilege of exploring Lima’s most captivating corners, each concealing its own culinary treasures. During this time, I first encountered foreign tourists in my cab, and I found myself instinctively recommending the beloved restaurants and dishes that define Peruvian cuisine.
Thanks to my friends, education, and fate, I found my place in the tourism industry, providing transfers and guiding tours throughout Lima. Through the years I started guiding groups of tourists from all over the world around Peru and South America. In brief, my path in tourism was an exciting journey full of unforgettable experiences. One such milestone occurred in 2006, when, driven by my passion, I organized my inaugural gastronomic tour, leading curious explorers through the vibrant corridors of a local wholesale market.
That day remains etched in my memory.
It is important to note that in 2006, Lima, and Peru as a whole, had yet to witness the emergence of culinary tours or travel agencies offering such experiences. In fact, I wasn’t even aware that such tours were a possibility!
Further inspiration arrived during my backpacking adventures across South America and Europe. Conversations with fellow travelers would invariably turn to the uniqueness and incredible flavors of Peruvian cuisine. At first, I regarded these praises with modesty, but as I traveled and worked around the globe, I realized that Peruvian food, with its diverse array of ingredients, distinct flavors, and unparalleled freshness, had captured the hearts of many.
The Birth of Lima Tasty Tours
After years of exploring the culinary realm and working in tourism, I grew increasingly aware of the gem that Peruvian food represented and its appreciative reception abroad. Fueled by this passion and driven to share Lima’s gastronomic marvels, I took the plunge and established my own travel agency, specializing in culinary tours.
In early 2010, I began by taking my friends from around the world to sample delicacies at my favorite food stands, always with the intention of providing them with a warm sense of home. I focused on the places beloved by Peruvians, knowing that this was the path for my friends to truly experience Peruvian cuisine and feel like locals.
Almost imperceptibly, in 2013, Lima Tasty Tours was born, with the mission of sharing our profound knowledge of Peruvian culture, traditions, and local experiences through the medium of food.
Who We Are Today
Today, Lima Tasty Tours is a dedicated team driven by our passion to showcase Peru’s exceptional cuisine. We are thrilled to invite each and every one of you to embark on an incredible culinary adventure, where you will uncover the very essence of our vibrant culture through the mouthwatering flavors that define the daily lives of Peruvians. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for the trust you place in us to be your guides on this extraordinary journey through our beloved country. It fills us with immense passion to share our sheer delight with those who have made the decision to visit us.
Embark on a flavorful journey through Peru’s culinary wonders with our unique travel agency, where every bite tells a story.
Buen Provecho!
