
Coya Peruvian Secret
A charming, vine-covered cottage serving authentic Peruvian cuisine with a Cali twist, offering a romantic escape and vibrant flavors.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Coya Peruvian Secret

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, vine-covered cottage serving authentic Peruvian cuisine with a Cali twist, offering a romantic escape and vibrant flavors.
Reserve for Weekends
Make reservations for weekend dining to guarantee your table, especially during busy times.
Dress for Outdoor Seating
Dress warmly in colder months as outdoor seating is common; heaters are available.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Peruvian
Price
Mid-range
Phone
(858) 792-0821
Address
1140 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014, USA
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Enchanting Ambiance
A vine-covered cottage with a flower garden and colorful lights creates a romantic, European-like escape.

Authentic Peruvian Flavors
Experience traditional Peruvian dishes with a Cali twist, praised for vibrant, fresh, and unique flavors.

Standout Ceviche
Praised as some of the best in San Diego, this ceviche is perfectly balanced, citrusy, and flavorful.
Plans like a pro.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reserve for Weekends
Make reservations for weekend dining to guarantee your table, especially during busy times.
Dress for Outdoor Seating
Dress warmly in colder months as outdoor seating is common; heaters are available.
Ask About Spice Levels
Inquire about spice preferences for dishes like ceviche if you prefer milder flavors.
Parking Tip
Parking can be easier on side streets. Expect Del Mar prices for meals.
Tips
from all over the internet
Reserve for Weekends
Make reservations for weekend dining to guarantee your table, especially during busy times.
Dress for Outdoor Seating
Dress warmly in colder months as outdoor seating is common; heaters are available.
Ask About Spice Levels
Inquire about spice preferences for dishes like ceviche if you prefer milder flavors.
Parking Tip
Parking can be easier on side streets. Expect Del Mar prices for meals.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Coya Peruvian Secret is lauded for its enchanting ambiance and authentic Peruvian cuisine, with many highlighting the exceptional ceviche and Lomo Saltado. While the food and atmosphere receive widespread praise, some diners note that the service can be inconsistent, and a few question the authenticity of the Peruvian flavors.
"Was pleasantly surprised by this small spot at Delmar with the aesthetics & food,found out it was one of the best picked in 2024
! The crowd and services were amazing,food was delicious & healthy,appropriate portions! Had a perfect friday night! Much recommended!"
Ankita Aparajita
"Tucked away like a true hidden gem, this spot feels like a little escape from the city. The décor is charming, and the outdoor seating sets a relaxed, vacation-like atmosphere right from the start.
We ordered the Ceviche Clásico, half chicken, and a glass of chicha morada. As someone who’s quite picky about ceviche, I was blown away — this might be my new favorite in San Diego. Bright, citrusy, with just the right kick of spice and unique touches like choclo, it was perfectly balanced and deeply satisfying.
The half chicken arrived with generous portions of tender, flavorful meat, accompanied by fragrant rice and a delicious house sauce. It was far more abundant than expected — easily enough for two.
Service was warm and attentive (special thanks to Julia for her kindness), which made the entire experience all the more memorable.
Overall, this restaurant delivers both quality and heart. A must-try for anyone who loves Peruvian flavors done right. We’ll absolutely be back.
Plus- the 4 Leches dessert was scrumptious. And the chicha sangria 👍 everything was great!"
Tanya Dantus
"The atmosphere is great! We came on a Friday and it was beautifully relaxing. The food was great with Peruvian flavors! Good parking around the area too :)"
Krystal Gonzalez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend dining, as the restaurant is popular and seating can be limited.
Yes, the restaurant features a charming outdoor seating area, often described as a vine-covered cottage, perfect for a romantic atmosphere.
The restaurant offers authentic Peruvian cuisine with a Cali twist. While many praise the flavors, a few diners have questioned the authenticity compared to traditional Peruvian dishes.
Yes, Coya Peruvian Secret offers vegetarian substitutes for some traditional dishes, catering to different dietary needs.
The Ceviche Clásico and Lomo Saltado are frequently highlighted as standout dishes. Many reviewers also rave about the grilled octopus.
Parking can sometimes be easier on side streets. Some suggest it's more convenient to find parking a little further up the road from the town center.
The restaurant has a relaxed, casual dining atmosphere. While not explicitly stated, smart casual attire is generally appropriate.
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Featured in these publications
Del Mar Restaurants: Top Dining in Del Mar in October 2025
This sophisticated seafood restaurant is in a prime location off Camino Del Mar and 12th–just two blocks from the beach. They offer authentic Peruvian plates with a Cali twist, with menu favorites including homemade empanadas and chimichurri sauce, insanely juicy fish ceviche, yuquitas, lomita saltado, and slightly sweet. Maybe it’s the overhead arch of entangled vines and flowers above the exterior of the restaurant’s patio seating, or maybe it’s the cutesy location that makes this place so romantic, but whatever the case, it is a must-try spot for Peruvian-Cali cuisine!
12 Best Restaurants in Del Mar, CA 2023
Located in a comfy chalet retreat in the heart of Del Mar near the beach, Coya is a real game changer with its unique fusion of international and Peruvian cuisine lists on its menu. Hidden away from the street, the outdoor seating offers an exquisite peaceful ambiance surrounded by a garden of flowers, providing tranquility all around the place. You can start with the Mexican Ceviche with avocado.
Del Mar, California
© Coya Peruvian Secret Coya Peruvian Secret is a charming family owned open-air Peruvian restaurant located in the heart of Del Mar's European-style downtown. It is famous for its traditional ceviche and wonderful, warm atmosphere. Literally on the street, the restaurant's tables are surrounded by a profusion of blooming bougainvillea and tasteful Peruvian traditional textiles.
Best Del Mar Restaurants in 2024
Peruvian Delights in a Cozy Ambiance: Tucked away in a cozy corner of Del Mar, Coya Peruvian Secret serves up authentic Peruvian cuisine with standout dishes like Lomo Saltado and Ceviche Mixto. This hidden gem is cherished for its intimate and warm atmosphere, the vibrant flavors of Peru, and the personalized service that makes diners feel like part of the family.
10 Best Restaurants in Del Mar | Blog
A unique addition to Del Mar’s dining scene, Coya Peruvian Secret offers an authentic taste of Peruvian cuisine. Known for its use of traditional spices and cooking techniques, this restaurant delivers an array of exotic flavors in dishes that are both colorful and mouth-watering. It’s a culinary journey to South America without leaving Southern California.
The 10 Best Gluten-Free Spots Open Late in Del Mar
I really appreciated the server’s knowledge about gluten free food safety. I told him I had celiac and he made sure I didn’t order any item marked GF that would still have contamination. Other gluten free diners should be aware, though, that some of their GF designated options are still contaminated (eg, shared fryer) so you do need to as the server.
Del Mar Restaurants: Top Local Favorites
Coya Peruvian in Del Mar brings the vibrant flavors of Peru with a fusion twist. The setting in an old house is charming and perfect for exploring traditional Peruvian dishes like ceviche and lomo saltado. My favorite dishes are the empanadas and the red wine-braised short ribs.
Mix Up Your Dining Experience at Del Mar Restaurants
Head to Coya Peruvian Secret for ceviche, the Darshan Bakery for French pastries, or Shimbashi Izakaya for Japanese “tapas” and sushi. Del Mar boasts multiple top-notch Italian restaurants as well, and more.
21 Fun Things to do in Del Mar
A favorite spot for Peruvian food, Coya Peruvian Secret is a must-visit Del Mar restaurant. The fresh ingredients and authentic recipes will have you daydreaming about ceviche for days to follow.
Del Mar | Neighborhood Guide
You can also savor exceptional menu items at En Fuego Cantina & Grill, Americana Restaurant, Pacifica Del Mar, Zel’s Del Mar, Coya Peruvian Secret, and Ocean View Bar & Grill.
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