A new guide to shopping in Lima showcases a creative scene shaped by Peru's Indigenous traditions and contemporary design. The coastal metropolis, home to some 10 million people, offers everything from artisan chocolate to ceramics and accessories.
In the Barranco district, independent ceramics studios such as Polen and Altamar Ceramic Studio produce tableware for top restaurants including Central, Mayta, Maido and Mérito. Herbario, developed by Verónica Castillo with Mariana Otero and Yerko Zlatar, sells body oils, room sprays, perfumes and soy wax candles made with essential oils.
Fashion labels collaborate with artisans to modernise heritage techniques. Alessandra Petersen's boutique features hand-knitted alpaca jackets, while Ayni uses baby alpaca wool, Pima cotton and plant-based dyes, and runs a training programme for its artisans. Estrafalario employs female former prisoners, many of them survivors of gender-based violence, to make clothes from recovered materials.
El Cacaotal, opened in 2017 by Amanda Jo Wildey, works directly with about 20 ethical producers and farmers. The shop encourages customers to consider chocolate like wine, with flavour wheels referencing each region's cacao characteristics. Jeweller Lorena Pestana draws on ancient civilisations including the pre-Inca Moche for her pieces in 18-carat gold, silver and bronze.
Dédalo, a local institution for more than 30 years, offers a labyrinth-like space with wood and pottery, alpaca scarves, linen womenswear and a courtyard café.