Jack's Cafe

One stop that seems to be a on every tourist's checklist in route to Machu Picchu is Jack's.  Don't expect to be the only tourist in the place, in fact don't expect to see any locals.  If a cultural experience is what you are looking for, this is not it.  This is where you come for comfort food after five days hiking on the Inca Trail.  Expect to run into people you have met along the way, maybe even share a table or your wait could be long.  If you are wanting familiar food, this is definitely the place to come.  Jack's is a cute place and the food does not disappoint.  The menu has a good variety of options.  Sandwiches and salads are good, while the smoothies are delicious.  Service can be hit or miss.  Our waitress was sweet but forgot several things-all the same person's.  Jack's is the perfect place for the hungover backpacker to meet up with their new friends they made the night before to eat burgers while they regal each other with their travel tales.

Having heard about a mythical restaurant in Cuzco simply known as 'Jacks' as far north as Quito in Ecuador, I was quietly looking forward to exploring what all the fuss was about.  The beauty in Jacks occurs not only in the food, but in the exceptional service and the general atmospheric buzz provided by those who share the elusive secret that is the restaurant.  On a normal morning one may have to wait up to ten minutes to be seated, as the line can often stretch and bend around cobblestone corners, but wait patiently and you will not be disappointed.  Just when you can’t wait any longer the sun will shine through and illuminate the vibrant decor of the establishment and a waitress will show you to your table.  Ordering off the menu is a challenge in itself, for there are far too many delicious options to choose from, though 'Jacks big breakfast' is a must.  Prices are generally quite acceptable at around US 6.00 for a standard meal.  A glass of orange juice downed and the once big breakfast (It is seriously enough for two) now obsolete, you leave the restaurant wanting to just to go sleep, not because your tired, but simply because you know exactly what you will try the following morning.  Oh yeah, ask the owner for vegemite, she keeps a secret stash underneath the counter.   

Jacks is filled with tourists wanting something familiar.  The breakfasts at Jacks are big enough to feed a family and choices range from oatmeal, to eggs with homefries and to french toast.  In fact, a friend of mine says Jack's breakfast sandwiches are the 2nd best she has ever had in her lifetime.  She went everyday for a week. When friends and/or family visit  from home, I always take them to Jack's for breakfast.   Be sure to try the Hershey's hot chocolate with marshmallows on top.  Breakfast is around 10-20 soles.