The Casa del Corregidor is one of the oldest remaining examples of colonial architecture in Puno. Built in 1701 by the priest Silvestre de Valdés who was also in charge of the construction of Puno’s cathedral, the house is packed with local history. Corregidor refers to the Spanish title of judge, governor and tax collector rolled into one. It was declared a historical monument in 1980, was restored in 1981 and is now owned privately by the Pino Jordán family.
You can have two completely different experiences in Casa del Corregidor depending on the time of day you visit. The sun dappled courtyard is a great spot to enjoy a mid-morning coffee as you plan your exploration of Puno. Grab a cup of Tunki coffee (locals proudly explain this is Puno coffee named best speciality coffee in the world in 2010) and relax to the sound of classical music.
Night time sees the café move indoors and become more of a restaurant-bar. This is probably one of the more decent places to have a bite to eat and drink in a warm, lively atmosphere in Puno. Reggae and rock music plays in the background and a Peruvian craft beer or glass of wine goes well with one of their tapas-style share dishes. Try the tasty quinoa cheese fingers served with sweet cape gooseberry and pisco honey or the tapas mix, a selection of toasts with trout gravalax, chimichurri beef, caramelised tomato and pesto and a tasty alpaca stew topping.
If you’re feeling hungry, try the grilled trout with an Andean mint chimichurri sauce and salad or the alpaca steak medallions with a greek yoghurt dressing and a creamy pesque (like a creamy risotto made of quinoa, milk and cheese.) They also do a selection of soups and sandwiches throughout the day.
Food is not gourmet but is decent, filling and reasonable in price for the quality of this casual setting. Casa del Corregidor is a great spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy a beer or a cocktail in the evening or a coffee, one of the best in town, at any time of day!
Best of Peru Travel Recommends:
- The café has good wifi and a section with board games if you’re looking for some additional entertainment.
- Check out the reggae themed inner room in the café. All the discs decorating the walls are from the owners dads’ vinyl collection!
- If you’re looking for a sweet treat try the ‘torta de galletas’ a delicious, gooey mix of biscuits, pudding, chocolate and coconut. Mmmm…
