A selection of Peruvian cheeses on display at the San Camilo Market
San Camilo Market in Arequipa is the oldest market in the city and is located just a few blocks from the Plaza de Armas. It’s a great place to stop in for a cheap lunch of ceviche and fresh juice, as well as a traditional queso helado on the second floor. Queso helado is a type of Peruvian ice cream, kind of a rich custard that can best be described at freezer-burnt vanilla ice cream, but in the best way possible.
I spent a Saturday afternoon walking around and marveling at the huge array of fruits, meats, and other goods available. They certainly do know how to butcher and use every part of an animal here!
A Yank without a Chain 
What did you think of the queso helado? I was a little reluctant to taste it but found it to be quite nice in the end. Also: did you dare to try jugo de rana (frog juice) at the market?
I really liked the queso helado! I tried it at the market and at Zig Zag, an upscale restaurant, and the two versions were very different but both delicious.
I have not tried frog juice… can’t say it’s on the to-do list. I was going to try cuy and chickened out, so I can’t see myself going through with the frog juice!
Haha. I wouldn’t necessarily recommend the frog juice either, though I would describe it as more of a protein shake than anything.