High above the Engadine, Amaru by Claudia Canessa + Saint Moritz brings Peru’s coastal brightness and Andean soul to the storied Kulm Hotel St. Moritz. Open only during winter, this Saint Moritz fine dining address marries alpine glamour with South American vibrancy, framed by a vaulted ceiling and candlelit warmth. Led by the charismatic Chef Claudia Canessa, the restaurant’s most distinctive feature is its modern Peruvian cuisine—spirited, elegant, and deeply ingredient-driven—crafted for travelers who collect tastes as avidly as they collect destinations.

The Story & Heritage
Chef Claudia Canessa channels Peru’s multicultural heritage—indigenous, Spanish, Japanese, Chinese—through a lens of precision and play. Her winter residency at the Kulm situates Amaru within one of Switzerland’s most venerable luxury hotels, drawing an international clientele seeking the best restaurants Saint Moritz offers. Canessa’s career spans kitchens and culinary expeditions that inform a bold, contemporary style grounded in authenticity and technique. While the venue’s seasonal nature keeps it elusive, it also heightens demand; the dining room’s limited seats and word-of-mouth acclaim have made it a coveted reservation among aficionados of Michelin star restaurants Saint Moritz and beyond.

The Cuisine & Menu
Expect a spirited, modern Peruvian menu with an ultra-premium sensibility: bright ceviches, flame-kissed grilling, and refined textures balanced by citrus and heat. Signatures might include El Choclo y sus Gambas—grilled corn cake with red prawns, pickled onions, and ocopa sauce—and Tuna Chicano, a pristine tuna ceviche with bold, aromatic lift. The menu favors a tasting format augmented by à la carte highlights, with thoughtful vegetarian adaptations on request. Sourcing prioritizes Alpine excellence and specialty Peruvian imports—aji amarillo, choclo, huacatay—showcasing sustainability and seasonality. Expect a sommelier-guided wine pairing and bespoke mocktails featuring Amazonian botanicals for those seeking a nuanced non-alcoholic experience.

Experience & Atmosphere
Set within Kulm’s refined interiors, Amaru’s vaulted ceiling, natural materials, and flickering light craft an enveloping, sophisticated ambiance. Service is attentive and intuitive, delivered with warmth by a polished team that moves with Swiss precision and Latin grace. The wine program highlights Old World classics, high-altitude South American terroirs, and a considered selection for seafood and citrus-driven dishes; pairings are tailored by a seasoned sommelier. Private dining and a chef’s counter experience can be arranged during peak season, ideal for intimate celebrations. Smart elegant attire is recommended. Reservations are essential; winter weeks and holiday periods book out well in advance.

Closing & Call-to-Action
Choose Amaru by Claudia Canessa for a singular winter-only rendezvous where Saint Moritz luxury meets Peruvian verve. Reserve several weeks ahead—especially over festive dates—and request the tasting menu with wine pairing for the most complete expression. For collectors of rare dining experiences, the seasonal chef’s counter and limited seats make this one to secure early.