Other than the wide variety of fresh produce, Lima’s food markets have a large variety of fresh meats, poultry and fish. From pig heads to chickens hanging from the stalls, the Limeños definitely do not mind seeing their meat and/or poultry before buying it.
If you are more of a seafood lover, visiting Terminal Pesquero is a must. Carrying thousands of live crabs, giant fish, clams and mussels, Terminal Pequero is definitely the largest fish market in Lima. Not only is everything unbelievably fresh, but also extremely cheap. For only 2 soles, which translates to about €0.52, you can purchase a whole fish, have it cleaned, and cut into pieces, which is perfect for making your own homemade ceviche. However, if you are not exactly a fan of cooking your own meals, have no fear; there are plenty of stalls at the markets that prepare fresh seafood dishes with the daily catch, as well as stalls that offer affordable two-course menus, which typically consists of either a soup or ceviche, and fried meat or fish with rice (Reppe, 2017). If you ask me, you can probably purchase some of the best tasting ceviche at food market stalls, rather than at a restaurant.
All in all, if you are in Lima for a couple of days, visiting any of the local food markets should definitely be on your to-do list if you really would like to get a taste of Peru’s biodiversity.
By Karina Carty De Lima