La Mar Cebichería

​One of Lima’s leading cebiche restaurants, La Mar Cebichería in Miraflores is one of top chef Gastón Acurio’s establishments; it’s a real success story given that there are many dotted across the continent and this branch regularly ranks in Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants list.

Focusing on Peru’s famous lime-cured fish dish cebiche, bathed in a deliciously creamy yet spicy leche de tigre salsa, La Mar Cebichería only opens at midday to ensure the freshest daily catches make the cut; choose from 10 cebiches as well as sushi, tiradito, cau cau fish stew and whole grilled fish. Sit at the bar for a look at the abundant seafood selection while soaking up the buzzy vibe of happy diners devouring the Pacific Ocean’s riches, often with a bib around their neck.

​La Mar Cebichería’s list was conceived to work in synthesis with the ocean, and sommelier José Garma’s list is formed largely by white varieties, backed by rosé, sparkling wine and a short reds section. The selection is short yet versatile, and barrel-aged Argentine Chardonnay with good minerality is one of the most popular pairings with cebiches; other notable whites include Hermitage, Alsatian Riesling, Rías Baixas Albariño and Pouilly-Fuissé.

There’s also room for some Peruvian vintages, including Tacama’s Chardonnay/Viognier/Sauvignon Blanc blend. La Mar now stocks its eponymous label, a Sauvignon Blanc/Chardonnay made by Argentine viticultor Sebastián Zuccardi. Also of note is the 40-strong pisco list, which includes quebranta, acholado and mosto verde styles.