Pastuso: Melbourne’s Peruvian Playground

Hidden down ACDC Lane, Pastuso brings the energy of contemporary Peru straight into the city. It is vibrant, loud in the right ways and fuelled by the open charcoal parrilla that anchors the entire dining room. You can smell the smoke and spice the moment you walk in, setting the tone for a menu driven by freshness and fire.

The room is warm and textured with timber, brick and soft lighting. It feels lively yet polished, giving it the flexibility to work for both casual catch ups and more elevated nights out.

Ceviche, Fire and Big Bold Flavours

Peru’s culinary identity shines through immediately. The ceviche bar plates up bright, zesty seafood with leche de tigre that cuts through with precision. From there, the grill takes centre stage with smoky meats, charred vegetables and rich marinades that speak to Peru’s Japanese and Chinese influences.

Standouts often include their wood fired beef cuts, spiced pork, trout and anticuchos. Dishes are punchy and layered, designed to be shared but also satisfying on their own.

A Dining Experience That Feels Alive

Pastuso thrives on atmosphere. Staff move with confidence, the grill keeps the room warm and buzzing, and the drinks list brings everything together with pisco sours, South American spirits and food friendly wine. It is the kind of venue where the energy builds through the night without tipping into chaos.

If you want a meal that feels spirited, flavour driven and genuinely different to the standard CBD offering, Pastuso delivers every time.