Peru and Ireland are forging a vibrant new connection through culture, cuisine, and diplomacy, from the visit of the majestic BAP Unión to the opening of Dublin’s Peruvian-inspired Cantina Valentina

By Louis Ryan | Nov 19 2025

Peru, celebrated for its vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes, is fast becoming a global culinary powerhouse, and Ireland is beginning to take notice. From the visit of a majestic Peruvian naval training vessel in Dublin to the opening of a new Peruvian-inspired restaurant in the heart of the capital, a new cultural connection is taking shape, one that is being served with a side of ceviche and a dash of pisco. 

This September, Dublin Port welcomed the BAP Unión, one of the world’s largest and most impressive sailing vessels. Stretching 115 metres long, with masts soaring over 50 metres high, the four-masted barque brought a taste of Peru to Irish shores between September 6th and 9th. The ship, which serves as both a training vessel and a floating embassy for the Peruvian Navy, drew over 3,000 visitors during its stay, many of whom were treated to a Peruvian café experience on board, complete with traditional flavours and warm hospitality. 

Peru’s Ambassador to Ireland, His Excellency Jamie Cacho Sousa, described the visit as “a historic milestone in Peru–Ireland relations, ”highlighting the growing friendship between the two nations.” Dublin Port’s Harbour Master, Captain Michael McKenna, echoed that sentiment, calling the BAP Unión “a living reminder of maritime history” and “a floating ambassador for her nation.” The ship’s quick stop in Dublin formed part of a wider European tour to strengthen trade, tourism, and cultural ties. 

But Peru’s influence in Ireland isn’t just diplomatic, it’s increasingly culinary. Later this year, Dublin will welcome Cantina Valentina, a Peruvian-inspired restaurant at The Hoxton, the much anticipated hotel opening on November 20th in the restored Central Hotel on Exchequer Street. The venue promises to bring the bold, colourful flavours of Lima and Cusco to the Irish capital, blending them with Dublin’s dynamic dining scene. 

Headed by a team of international chefs, Cantina Valentina will showcase the diversity of Peruvian cuisine. From ceviche, the national dish of fresh fish cured in lime and chilli, to lomo saltado, a sizzling beef stir-fry with Asian influences. Guests can also expect aji de gallina, a creamy chicken stew with yellow chilli, and anticuchos, skewers of marinated meat grilled to perfection. Complementing the menu will be Peru’s iconic pisco sour, a tangy cocktail made from grape brandy, lime juice, and frothy egg white, a perfect toast to Dublin’s newest global connection. 

For The Hoxton, the Peruvian concept marks a bold addition to Ireland’s evolving food landscape, which has become increasingly adventurous in recent years. As Irish diners embrace flavours from across the world, Peruvian cuisine, with its blend of Indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian influences offers something both exotic and comforting. 

The arrival of the BAP Unión and the opening of Cantina Valentina may seem like separate events, but together they mark a broader cultural exchange between Peru and Ireland. As Peru rises on the global culinary stage, Dublin appears ready to set the table!