If you’re wandering Arequipa and craving comforting, handmade pasta with a local twist, Pasta Canteen is one of the city’s most talked-about Italian spots — perfect for a casual lunch or dinner that’s a break from rocoto relleno and adobo.

This place was so cheap and delicious a great spot for any backpackers and the servings were massive!

The concept here is all about fresh, customizable pasta made on the spot. You can build your own dish by choosing the type of noodle, sauce, and toppings, and it comes with a side salad and freshly baked bread — a simple but satisfying formula. The menu also includes other crowd-pleasers like pizzas from a wood-fired-style oven and hearty pasta combinations like stroganoff, lamb ragu, or seafood pasta with spicy tomato-ink sauce.

Many visitors highlight the cozy, welcoming atmosphere — it’s a smaller, friendly space that feels great for a relaxed meal after exploring the historic center. Some travellers rave about standout dishes like ravioli with rich sauces and cheese-wheel tableside finishes that bring a fun, interactive touch to your plate. That said, reviews are mixed at times about consistency, so it’s worth going with an open mind and a hunger for pasta.

Rough costs & timing: Most mains like build-your-own pasta or classic spaghetti are around ~PEN 20–40 per person, making it a reasonably priced meal in Arequipa. A sit-down dinner here typically takes around 45–90 minutes, depending on how many courses you go for.

Tips: It’s open daily from around 12:30 PM to 9:30 PM, and the central location on Calle Puente Grau makes it easy to add to an afternoon or evening of sightseeing.