We were lucky to get a reservation at the new Astrid y Gaston in Casa Moreyra (Avenida Paz Soldan 290, San Isidro, Lima). It has been open only 8 days at this location when we went for lunch.
In a new beautiful setting, Astrid y Gaston occupies the Casa Moreyra, an old “Casa Hacienda,” that has been renovated in minimalistic style after an investment said to have cost upwards of US$1 million. Every single detail has been considered and taken care to perfection.
Unless you sit at a the bar, the restaurant only serves the fix menu (“Viru”) which is a trip of 21 flights starting with a drink at the terrace; the menu is a tribute to the products of Peru, and takes you through the sea, desert, Andes, Altiplano, and Amazon jungle, offering the typical products taken to their maximum expression. Each course is very tiny (one or two bites at the most), but thriving with flavors and care. There is an abundance of molecular gastronomy so very often you don’t recognize the ingredients. Each course is served on a different plate specifically designed for it by recognized Peruvian artists.
After a few courses, the lack of decoration within the walls painted with soft colors becomes evident: you focus on the plate, and anticipate the colors, aromas, and flavors. Food is at the epicenter of the experience.
There is a wine pairing (which we didn’t choose); instead, we brought our own wines (including desert) and there is no charge for decorking, even though the wine is served perfectly by one of the two sommeliers.
Service was impeccable, and you get to keep the menu which is really a small book explaining the dishes.
The entire trip lasts between 3 and 4 hours.
Price? Amazing, about US$150 per person, less than a third of what you would pay for a 3-star Michelin experience.
Without exaggeration, the best restaurant in the world. 3 Stars Michelin, no questions asked.
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