Business Details
Discover Authentic Peruvian Flavors at Pastuso Melbourne
Pastuso is a modern Peruvian restaurant located in Melbourne's AC/DC Lane, offering a culinary journey through Peru's diverse regions. Our menu celebrates traditional techniques and vibrant flavours from the coast, Andes, and jungle, crafted under the leadership of Head Chef Dwi Ayu. Chef Ayu brings a unique perspective shaped by her transition from corporate life to hospitality, inspired by Melbourne's multicultural food scene. We specialise in ceviche at Australia's first cevicheria, charcoal-grilled meats, and exotic Pisco-inspired desserts. Our venue combines a chic laneway setting with an open kitchen and lively atmosphere, perfect for casual meals or celebrations.The menu features fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and innovative dishes like tiradito and anticuchos. Private dining options and curated set menus cater to groups, while our bar showcases Peruvian-inspired cocktails. The restaurant has received acclaim for its user-friendly approach, cheeky service, and dedication to authentic Peruvian cuisine. We prioritise creating memorable dining experiences through creative dishes and warm hospitality. Our team embraces challenges with resilience, ensuring every guest feels welcome and inspired by Peru's culinary heritage.
Services
Ceviche
Grilled Dishes
Private Dining
Gift Vouchers
Set Menus
Highlights and features
- We offer an innovative Peruvian menu inspired by coastal, Andean, and jungle traditions
- Our head chef brings unique perspective through her corporate-to-hospitality career transition
- We feature Australia's first dedicated cevicheria with four zesty ceviche varieties
- Our private dining spaces accommodate groups from 8 to 32 guests with tailored menus
- We combine Melbourne's laneway charm with authentic Peruvian culinary techniques
What people say
Super versatile dining destination
Vibrant flavors
Charming service
Chic laneway location
Exceptional ceviche
Services
Ceviche
Australia's first cevicheria offers fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices. Varieties include ruby red snapper with caramelised sweet potato and dry-aged kingfish with plantain chips. Traditional Latin American preparation highlights coastal Peruvian cuisine through zesty, refreshing dishes that showcase seasonal seafood.
Grilled Dishes
Charcoal-grilled meats and seafood feature traditional Andean cooking methods. Menu highlights include O'Connor scotch fillet with smoked chilli salsa and slow-braised lamb shoulder with Peruvian fried rice. Our parrilla station delivers smoky flavours through authentic wood-fired preparation techniques.
Private Dining
Flexible event spaces accommodate 8-32 guests with dedicated menus. The private dining room and mezzanine booths suit corporate functions or celebrations. Custom sharing menus designed by Head Chef Dwi Ayu ensure memorable group dining experiences with tailored Peruvian cuisine.
Gift Vouchers
Physical and digital gift vouchers available for special occasions. Recipients enjoy modern Peruvian cuisine in Melbourne's laneway setting. Vouchers can be redeemed against food, drinks, or private dining experiences, making perfect gifts for food lovers.
Set Menus
Curated sharing menus designed for group dining experiences. Mandatory for parties of eight or more, featuring signature dishes from cevicheria, grill, and dessert sections. Menus showcase Peru's culinary diversity through multiple courses with balanced flavour profiles.
People
Dwi Ayu
Head Chef
Pastuso's first female head chef transitioned from corporate life to hospitality. She embraces Melbourne's multicultural food scene and Peruvian culinary traditions. Her leadership focuses on creating memorable experiences through vibrant flavours and innovative dishes.
Questions
What Peruvian dishes do you specialise in?
We focus on coastal ceviche, Andean grilled meats, and jungle-inspired desserts. Signature dishes include ruby red snapper ceviche, charcoal-grilled O'Connor scotch fillet, and algarrobina flan.
Does Pastuso have private dining options?
Yes, we offer a private dining room for 8-32 guests and mezzanine booths for smaller groups. All group bookings require pre-arranged set menus designed by our head chef.
Who is Head Chef Dwi Ayu?
Chef Ayu transitioned from corporate life to hospitality, working from apprentice to head chef. She brings fresh perspectives to Peruvian cuisine through Melbourne's multicultural food culture and personal travel experiences.
What are your opening hours?
We're open Monday-Thursday 5pm-11pm, Friday-Saturday 12pm-11pm, and Sunday 12pm-5pm. Last bookings recommended 1.5 hours before closing.
Do you offer gift vouchers?
Yes, digital and physical gift vouchers are available for purchase online or through our reservations team. They can be redeemed against any food, drinks, or private events.
Reviews (6)
Ainsley Rayner
Jan 21, 2022
Report
Pastuso is fabulous! Great funky location down AC/DC lane. Excellent staff. Food super nom. And cocktails - Pisco Sour - do yourself a favour. Loved it.
Crystal Waing
Jan 02, 2022
Report
I picked this place to celebrate my partners birthday with the kids as recommended by a friend. It was definitely a great recommendation as food was amazing! Staff were great!! Since it was our first time we were a little nervous on what to order but they were so great at giving us ideas and helped with kids meal!! Definitely a great place for a new experience and amazing food! Will surely be going back!! Oh the Alpaca ribs!! A must try!!!
Carolyn Valka
Dec 19, 2021
Report
Welcome back Melbourne! We chose this restaurant to make our comeback to dining out after lockdown. It proved to be a good choice. The place was absolutely buzzing with patrons all enjoying fabulous food and drinks. We had a tasting banquet which showcased the range of food available - including from the grill. Highly recommend.
Claire
Dec 15, 2021
Report
I had a really good time! Food are absolutely amazing. Wonderful service as well, shoutout to Rafael for the food and drink suggestions. Will definitely come again :)
Andrea Pompeyo
Dec 12, 2021
Report
Last night I had a great experience in Pastuso, we ordered a set Menu Feast of The Andes, and was amazing, the staff were friendly and the service was fast. I highly recommend pastel de choclo, Anticuchos and, ceviche.
Shuyi Liang
Nov 28, 2021
Report
Had a lovely dinner and great service from Emily. We had the scallop ceviche, grilled lamb rump, striploin with potatoes as condiment and tres leches cake for dessert.
