A stylish waterfront Peruvian restaurant with excellent ceviche and memorable views, though small portions, occasional long waits, and premium pricing make it better for a special occasion than casual dining.
Callao Peruvian Restaurant by Jaime Pesaque delivers strong food quality anchored by standout ceviche and seafood preparations, paired with a beautiful waterfront setting that justifies its premium positioning. Service remains attentive and knowledgeable, though execution varies across visits, and some inconsistency in dish preparation prevents a higher grade. The experience excels for special occasions but occasional lapses in reliability keep it from approaching grade A territory.
Callao is a polished Peruvian dining room on Scheveningen's harbor, where the water views and terrace do much of the opening act. Sunset tables, elegant styling, and warm service make it feel celebratory; one recurring impression is that the harbor view can turn an already good dinner into a memorable one. Reservations are sensible, particularly for weekend evenings. The cooking is contemporary Peruvian with a clear ceviche focus and noticeable Nikkei cross-pollination: tiger's milk, rocoto, kimchi, miso, chimichurri, wok-fried rice, and seafood share the menu. Ceviche is the safest bet, followed by dishes such as Chaufa Aeropuerto, Pulpo a la Brasa, and selected seafood mains. The best feedback describes freshness, vivid seasoning, beautiful presentation, and generous mains, while the less flattering reports focus on watery or overly acidic ceviche, dry chicken, bland sides, and inconsistent execution. Expect a refined tasting-style experience rather than a bargain plate of comfort food. Families can make it work, and one returning diner says their children now enjoy the restaurant; the menu also includes familiar options such as grilled chicken, fries, vegetarian fried rice, and chocolate cake. Still, the seafood-led menu, chili-based sauces, unusual ingredients, and small tasting portions may challenge picky eaters. If bringing children, ask about simple preparations and order a substantial main rather than relying on ceviche alone.
Area vibe: Upscale residential and diplomatic area with seaside leisure nearby.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit streets with steady foot traffic and tourist presence in daytime and evenings.
What's nearby: Close to Frederik Hendriklaan shops, the Lange Voorhout/Statenkwartier embassies, and tram links to central Den Haag and Scheveningen beach.
The ceviches are the clearest starting point, but the menu also has standout options like Pulpo a la Brasa and Chaufa Aeropuerto.
Plan for a polished but expensive waterfront meal, adventurous flavors, and the possibility of unusually long waits between courses.
Its harbor views and terrace make Callao feel especially suited to sunset dinners and celebrations, with a refined mood to match.