Ode to Peruvian Table Bread

Bread basket at Oqre

The best bread ever is in Peru. What a discovery! Until our recent trip, I had always assumed French baguettes and Italian focacias were the best. However, we were happily surprised and our taste buds were delighted to learn the truth.

Table bread at La Vista

From our very first dinner in Lima at La Vista (JW Marriott), we noticed unique flavors and textures. Here there was yellow potato bread, dark blue corn and olive bread, and savory, golden cheese bread. All the bread we encountered was firm and crunchy on the outside, yet soft and pillowy on the inside. All encompassed locally sourced grains, dairy and vegetables. At Oqre in Cusco (Monasterio), our server told us with pride, "My boss loves bread."

Bread from around Peru

The accompanying spreads were also delicious. Not just butter, not just olive oil, they were exciting combinations of avocado, cheese, cream, fruits and spices, all of the most dreamy consistencies.

Peruvian breads and spreads

Peruvian table bread serves as an epic pairing with Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca, and just one more reason to return someday.

Beautiful breakfast pastries in Cusco