Lima Bistro is a true culinary gem in Aruba, a Peruvian restaurant that manages to feel both sophisticated and welcoming. Located right by the water, the restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, each space thoughtfully designed to enhance the dining experience. Inside, the décor has a modern yet warm feel, while the outdoor terrace provides a romantic setting with a relaxed island vibe.
From the very beginning, the experience stood out. The service was exceptional—attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely friendly. Our server took the time to guide us through the menu, explain dishes in detail, and offer pairing suggestions that made the evening feel personalized.
The culinary philosophy here is inspired: the chef infuses international influences with local Aruban ingredients, creating dishes that are vibrant, flavorful, and beautifully plated. The wine list pulls from all over the world, and the cocktail program deserves a mention of its own. We ordered the Pisco Sour, the classic Peruvian cocktail, and it was refreshing, balanced, and creative—an excellent introduction to the meal.
We began with the Huancaína—a dish of jamón serrano, poached egg, potato, and truffle aioli. It was a clever take on a traditional Peruvian favorite, elevated by luxurious touches like the jamón and truffle. Next came the scallops, delicately seared and served with shoyu butter, crisp chips, and fresh chives. The combination of textures and flavors was spot on, each bite light yet indulgent.
For mains, we shared two variations of flank steak. The first came with anticucho sauce, romaine, black garlic Caesar, crispy onion, and burned onion powder—a dish that was bold, smoky, and layered with flavor. The second was paired with a creamy, perfectly cooked risotto, a hearty and satisfying dish that showcased the chef’s attention to technique. The only very minor drawback of the evening was that one of the steaks was a touch overcooked compared to how it was ordered, but the flavors were still excellent and it didn’t take away from the overall experience.
We ended the evening with the French toast dessert, which was nothing short of decadent. Served with condensed milk, honey, wild berries, and vanilla ice cream, it was rich, sweet, and the perfect way to conclude the meal.
What makes Lima Bistro so special is the combination of all these elements—the passion that goes into every dish, the attention to detail in presentation, the carefully curated drinks, and the warm, attentive service. Add in the relaxed yet romantic setting, and it’s clear why this restaurant stands out on the Aruban dining scene.
Overall, Lima Bistro delivered on every level. From the cocktails to the desserts, every part of the experience felt thoughtful and well-executed. If you are looking for a place in Aruba that blends Peruvian flavors with international finesse, paired with world-class service and ambiance, this restaurant should be at the very top of your list. We left already planning our return, and we can confidently say: we will see you next year!
Rating: 9.2/10