Argentina is the land of steak and red wine, but sometimes - and especially as the hot summer days approach - you just crave fish and a good, cold beer. The best way to go for this in Argentina is try its neighbouring country, Peru's, fantastically refreshing cuisine. Mendoza has recently seen a boom in Peruvian restaurants and although they are pretty low key, this is your best chance for a bit of fish and some spice on the side. Here's a low down of the top three in the city centre:

La Flor de la Canela, Juan B Justo 426 The original Peruvian joint in town, this still remains the favourite for many and it's central location is ideal is you are looking for some cheap food after hitting a few bars. Grab a seat outside on the busy Juan B Justo road or sit inside the brightly lit diner and try their delicious homemade tomales and mixed ceviche. Ask for it nice and hot if you really want to get a kick.

Tomi de Oro, Mitre 1766 With a flashy gold sign outside, you can't miss this one on Mitre street running through the middle north of the city. With a bit more ambience inside than the other restaurants, the Golden Tomb even has a wine list (albeit very small) and they do huge platters of mixed fried fish as well as ceviche which are definitely enough to share between two.

Chabuco, Corrientes 94 A couple blocks behind the bohemian neighbourhood of Alameda, this is still a rather secret little gem. Serving up your usual Peruvian fare as well as a delicious spicy broth with seafood that will deliver on flavour and spice enough to let you forget that you live in Argentina and take you to the back streets of Lima.

Amanda Barnes is a British journalist living in Mendoza and enjoying the red meat and wine, while sneaking away for her fish hit at Peruvian restaurants every few weeks.