Juanito Barranco, Lima

Over the past few years, there's been this legendary bar located in the seaside neighborhood of Barranco. From the outside, it looks pretty ordinary, but it's become a central hub for Lima's nightlife. Since 1939, it's been managed by Juan Casusol, affectionately known as Juanito, and now, his sons, Juan, Rodolfo, and César, have taken over the reins.

Juanito Barranco Bar has been a gathering place for painters, poets, writers, singers, musicians, students, night owls, and anyone looking for a spot to enjoy a drink and engage in lengthy conversations. Their claim to fame is the house specialty: smoked pork sandwiches, prepared according to a closely guarded secret recipe.

Situated right across from Barranco's main park, this bodega bar, reminiscent of Spanish taverns, originally went by the name Bodega del Parque. It was established back when Barranco was still connected to central Lima by streetcar.

A die-hard fan of the soccer club Alianza Lima, Juanito's bar becomes a focal point during Alianza's matches. And when the World Cup rolls around every four years, the place is packed to the brim with eager fans. Juanito and his sons trust the bar to capable hands while they make their way to wherever the games are being played.

Now, about that mouthwatering house specialty: the pork sandwich. It's crafted using smoked roast pork, slow-cooked with a secret blend of seasonings that give it a distinct flavor. It's always served with salsa criolla, a mixture of onions, tomatoes, and rocoto pepper. The recipe for Juanito's pork sandwich is considered one of Barranco's best-kept secrets.