Downtown SLO’s Newest Peruvian Restaurant: Coya

This has been an exciting year for downtown SLO as the local food scene continues to grow and diversify. One of the newest additions? Coya Peruvian, which celebrated its grand opening on December 21st—but this story started long before that.

Back in 2021, I met Catalina for the first time in the back kitchen of Sidewalk Market. She was hustling, running pop-ups in the middle of the pandemic, sharing her love of Peruvian cuisine with the community. Fast forward to today, and with the support of SLO locals, she’s turned that passion into a full-fledged restaurant in the heart of downtown.

Catalina is committed to honoring her culture by sourcing authentic ingredients straight from Peru, ensuring every dish delivers bold, traditional flavors.

What’s on the Menu?

Coya serves up classic Peruvian dishes that will have you coming back for more:
✔️ Lomo Saltado – Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and crispy fries.
✔️ Chaufa – Peruvian-style fried rice, a fusion of Chinese and Peruvian flavors.
✔️ Ceviche – Fresh, citrus-marinated seafood with just the right kick.

And don’t forget the traditional drinks! Try chicha morada, a sweet, spiced purple corn drink, or emoliente, a warm herbal infusion perfect for digestion.

Coya is great for both small and large groups, making it a perfect spot for a casual lunch, date night, or family gathering. The portions are generous, so come hungry! 😋

Want to secure a table? You can make a reservation on their website. Need to check their hours? Give them a call. Craving Peruvian food but short on time? Order online for pickup and enjoy these bold flavors at home! This is your chance to experience something new, delicious, and made with love by a chef who has been building this dream for years.

Have you tried Peruvian food before? Let me know your favorite dishes in the comments!

📍 Coya Peruvian
851 Higuera St, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
(805) 440-0784
📞 Call ahead to verify hours
Open Thursday to Tuesday 11a to 9p
CLOSED Wednesdays

They plan to have earlier hours in the future to serve Peruvian breakfast!

Follow @EnjoySLO for more local eats! 🚀