El Merlin is a no-frills seafood spot with a pleasant setting and surprisingly nice dishes. The tiradito de corvina was especially good—fresh and flavorful. I also enjoyed the navajas and the causa acevichada—both well-prepared. Perfect place for a quick, simple, and delicious seafood lunch. Recommended.
Overview
If you're searching for an exceptional dining experience in the heart of Miraflores, Merlín Restaurante stands out as a must-visit spot. Nestled at 15074, Av. Mariscal La Mar 1171, in one of Lima's most vibrant neighborhoods, this restaurant offers more than just a meal - it delivers an unforgettable experience.
Walking into Merlín Restaurante, the inviting atmosphere immediately strikes you. The modern, yet cozy ambiance sets the tone for what is about to unfold. Whether you're here for a casual lunch or a special evening out, the environment makes you feel right at home while providing a sense of sophistication. The interior blends contemporary design with a touch of Peruvian warmth, creating an atmosphere where relaxation and elegance come together effortlessly.
One of the first things you'll notice about Merlín Restaurante is its menu, a rich reflection of Peru's culinary diversity. Known for serving a range of traditional and innovative dishes, this restaurant provides an authentic taste of Peruvian cuisine with a contemporary twist. The menu features everything from fresh seafood to hearty meat dishes, offering something for everyone. The ceviche, a classic Peruvian dish, is a standout - the fish is always fresh, perfectly marinated, and served with just the right amount of spice.
Beyond the ceviche, the selection of meats is equally impressive. For those craving something a bit more substantial, the restaurant offers a variety of grilled meats that come with delicious sides and sauces that complement the flavors. The lomo saltado, another Peruvian favorite, is prepared to perfection, combining tender beef with sautéed vegetables and a savory soy-based sauce.
Vegetarian options at Merlín Restaurante are not to be overlooked either. The chefs here understand that plant-based meals deserve as much attention as meat dishes, and the variety of flavorful, wholesome vegetarian offerings proves it. One such dish is the quinoa salad, which combines the ancient grain with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy dressing, making for a light but satisfying meal.
Service at Merlín Restaurante is exceptional, with attentive staff members who are knowledgeable about the menu and passionate about ensuring that your dining experience is flawless. From the moment you're seated to the last sip of your drink, the staff's attention to detail elevates the experience.
For those who appreciate fine wine, Merlín Restaurante offers a carefully curated selection of wines that pair perfectly with their menu. Whether you're looking for a smooth red to complement your steak or a crisp white to enhance your seafood dish, the restaurant's wine list won't disappoint. The staff is also more than happy to recommend the ideal wine pairing for your meal, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.
Merlín Restaurante isn't just about food; it's also about the experience. Each dish is a journey into Peru's rich culinary heritage, served with creativity and flair. The restaurant does an excellent job of blending traditional flavors with modern techniques, offering something for both long-time fans of Peruvian cuisine and those experiencing it for the first time.
Located in Miraflores, this spot is ideal for both locals and tourists seeking to immerse themselves in Peru's culinary culture. The neighborhood itself offers a great atmosphere, with plenty of other shops and attractions nearby, making it a perfect stop during a day of sightseeing or an evening out.
If you're planning a visit, it’s recommended to make a reservation, especially on weekends when Merlín Restaurante tends to fill up quickly. The popularity of this gem is well-deserved, as both locals and visitors keep coming back for its exquisite dishes and impeccable service.
In summary, Merlín Restaurante is more than just a place to eat - it's a place to experience the true essence of Peruvian cuisine in a modern, welcoming setting. From its beautifully crafted menu to its attentive service, every detail has been thought through to ensure guests leave with a smile on their face and a satisfied stomach.
Good to know
From the business
✓ Identifies as women-ownedService options
✓ No-contact delivery ✓ Delivery ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-in ✓ On-site servicesHighlights
✓ Great cocktailsPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seatingOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ WineDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ Toilet ✓ Wi-Fi ✓ Wi-FiAtmosphere
✓ Cosy ✓ Quiet ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ LGBTQ+ friendly ✓ Tourists ✓ Transgender safe spacePlanning
✓ Reservations required ✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsParking
✓ On-site parking ✓ Paid parking lot ✓ Paid street parking ✓ ParkingPets
✓ Dogs allowed ✓ Dogs allowed inside ✓ Dogs allowed outsidePhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 116 reviews
El Merlin De Cabo Blanco exceeded expectations with their PULPO ANTICUCHERO - marinated octopus in anticucho sauce, served with potatoes and creams. The dish was excellent. The restaurant was bustling, so the staff couldn't attend to me properly. Nonetheless, everything else was great. Nice deal 2 Aperol spritz for s32
Great food, one of the best food I tasted in Lima. Excelent service! Look at the pictures of the food!
The food was very tasty and the portions big! For starters, main course and two drinks we spend 144PEN in total. Will come here again<3
Fish place with seviche, tiradito and other traditional Peruvian fish recipes. Attentive service and right pricing. We enjoyed the food and I recommend the place. Better booking for a table. Mostly local customers.
Fantastic experience. The combination of fresh ingredients and impeccable recipes make this place a must in Lima. The “Yuca Rellena” was delicious, I’ve never tried this plate before and was surprised by how tasty it was.
Literally the best meal I've had in Peru over the past month. It doesn't seem like the fanciest establishments but almost everything was cooked to perfection and well seasoned. Shrimp was delicate and not overcooked, ceviche was super fresh fish that isn't too fat, octopus and potatoes were grilled on the barbeque to perfection. White wine was also decent. Only negative comment was that the leche de tigre is too salty for my taste but that seems to be the general style in Peru. Once informed the staff, they seasoned everything else to perfection. Amazing response and preparation. Service was also super kind and guided us to ordering the right combination of foods, avoiding similar duplications.