Did you know that one of the most innovative cooking styles in the world was born from the encounter between Japan and Peru? Nikkei cuisine is the result of more than a century of history, technique and flavor.
And today you can experience it in an unexpected setting: Guatapé, one of the most beautiful destinations in Colombia. In this blog you will discover:
- What is Nikkei cuisine and how it became a global trend.
- Where to try it in Guatapé with an incomparable view.
- Why combining gastronomy and tourism transforms your trip.
Complement your gastronomic journey with ".5 water sports to go sightseeing in Guatapé, Antioquia"
What is Nikkei gastronomy?
The Nikkei cuisine was born from the crossbreeding between Japanese immigrants and Peruvian culture, since the end of the 19th century.
The term "Nikkei" refers to Japanese descendants outside Japan and in gastronomy, it represents the perfect fusion between Japanese technique and Andean ingredients.
What characterizes this cuisine?
- Precise cuts and use of fresh fish typical of Japan.
- Yellow chili, rocoto, lemon, corn and potato, emblematic ingredients of Peru.
- Balanced flavors: umami, citrus, spicy and sweet.
- Visually stunning presentations that are as artistic as they are tasty.
This cuisine has evolved over more than a century and today is a symbol of creativity and fusion. Classic examples of this fusion:
- Ceviche with soy and wasabi.
- Tiradito with ponzu and sesame.
- Rolls with octopus with olive tree sauce or causa limeña.
Nikkei: from Lima to the world
In 2025, the Nikkei cuisine is experiencing a global boom. Restaurants such as Maido (Lima), led by the chef Mitsuharu "Micha" Tsumura, have been recognized among the best on the planet - Maido was chosen as the #1 in the world by The World's 50 Best Restaurants in June 2025.
The popularity of this cuisine is also due to pioneers such as Nobu Matsuhisa, who took Japanese-Peruvian fusion to cities such as New York, London and Dubai.
Their keys to success:
- Innovation without losing the essence.
- Respect for the technique and the product.
- Careful aesthetics and unforgettable flavors.
Lima Restaurant: the Nikkei experience in Guatapé
In Guatapé, a land of sockets and landscapes, the typical dishes are usually trout, bandeja paisa or arepa. But today's travelers are looking for something more.
Porto Marina Hotel understood it and opened Lima Restaurantthe first and only restaurant in Nikkei cuisine in Guatapé.
Located in front of the reservoir and open to both guests and external visitors, Lima Restaurant offers a unique proposal in the region
- Dishes that fuse local ingredients with Nikkei techniques.
- Seasonal, creative and sophisticated menus.
- Water view and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for sunset dinners.
- Access by dock by boat or kayak.
Some menu favorites:
- Andean salmon tiradito with passion fruit and gari.
- Gourmet Causa limeña with oriental touches.
- Phad Thai
This is just an opener, we leave you the Lima Restaurant menu
All accompanied by handcrafted cocktails, selected wines and first class service.
Tourism + gastronomy: the formula for an unforgettable journey
Travel is no longer just about seeing the sights. According to the World Food Travel Association, more than 70% of travelers choose a destination because of the local cuisine.
And in Guatapé, you can combine:
- Ascent to the Peñol.
- Kayak or boat in the reservoir.
- Walking between baseboards.
- And a Nikkei dinner with flavors from Lima and Tokyo.
This combination of landscape, culture and flavor is what turns a trip into an unforgettable experience.
Experience Porto Marina Hotel
At Porto Marina Hotelevery detail is designed to awaken the senses:
the natural environment, the design and now, a gastronomic proposal at the level of the best destinations in the world.
What our visitors say:
- "The food is absolutely unique and delicious."
- "The best experience of the whole year."
- "A culinary delight. The ceviche and rolls were spectacular."
Book direct and get a special rate as special as your reservation. Book here
Nikkei cuisine not only tells a story of migration and cultural fusion, but today, in Guatapé, it invites you to savor it in front of the water.
Thanks to Lima Restaurant, you no longer have to go to Lima or Tokyo to experience it: you can experience it here, in the middle of the reservoir, surrounded by nature, architecture and flavor.
