Often referred to as the “navel of the world” — although a half dozen other ancient locales claim that distinction, too — Cusco, Peru was the center of the Incan universe for centuries. Designed in the shape of a puma, this sacred city of the Andes (elevation: 11,152 feet) is a layered walk through history, as the Spanish conquistadors left an indelible imprint, too. This is also reflected in the exciting dining scene, a mix of indigenous Quechua traditions (“cuy,” or roasted guinea pig) and trends from the emerging hot Peruvian culinary scene.