La Rosa Nautica was Lima’s first great restaurant and has managed to remain in the discussion some 35 years after opening its doors. And it’s not just the location that makes La Rosa Nautica so popular. It’s the stellar service, the unique adaptations of Peruvian seafood dishes, and near perfect execution.

I recently dined at La Rosa Nautica with two sisters and a nephew when they visited Lima. When they asked which restaurant we should go to, I didn’t hesitate. And Central and Maido didn’t even come to mind. It was the famed La Rosa Nautica. No restaurant is more emblematically Limeño than this one.

An appetizer and four main courses. One would go astray, right? Nope. The combination appetizer with ceviche, three carpaccios and causitas was spot on. My seafood chupe was brimming with seafood flavor. Every little chunk of seafood, including the somewhat difficult to prepare octopus and calamari, were flawless. Cooked perfectly.

As was the grilled octopus a la brasa. My nephew who had never experienced octopus, and balked at ordering it, loved it. The cleverly name Pescado Origami was steamed and served in a white wine and thyme flavor sauce with steamed veggies and quinoa. The cute folded paper box it was served in made for a beautiful presentation.

Finally, the seafood lasagna was exquisite. Given the choice, I’d take this over the traditional Italian beef or lamb variety any day. I’d love to have the recipe. Every element, including the pasta, was flawlessly executed.

The service was spot on. It was the perfect culmination to the family’s trip to South America. Thank you, La Rosa Nautica.