Bolivia is a paradise for food lovers. Its vibrant culture has a deep connection with food, and in every corner of the country, you will find delicious, traditional dishes that locals have perfected over centuries. From hearty soups to snacks you can grab on the go, the country offers a rich variety of flavors rooted in indigenous traditions and shaped by Spanish influences.
Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let’s dive into some of the best local foods you need to try in Bolivia, plus a few restaurant recommendations to make sure you don’t miss out on any of the magic. Bring your appetite!
Traditional Dishes You Must Try
Salteñas
Salteñas are Bolivia’s answer to the empanada. These are delicious pastry pockets filled with meat, potatoes, peas, and sometimes a little egg. The filling is juicy and often quite sweet, making for a surprising flavor combination. You can find varieties filled with chicken, beef, or vegetables. They’re typically eaten as a mid-morning snack, so don’t be surprised if they’re sold out by noon.
Where to try them: Go to Paceña la Salteña in La Paz for some of the best salteñas you’ll ever taste. They’ve been making salteñas since 1972, and locals swear by them!
Pique Macho
Pique Macho is a hefty plate of sliced beef, sausages, chunky fries, and boiled eggs, topped with tomatoes, onions, and chopped hot peppers. It’s a dish that was supposedly invented for a group of hungry workers who needed something filling and quick to prepare. It’s spicy, savory, and incredibly satisfying—you’ll leave feeling like you’ve eaten a feast.
Where to try it: Try El Condor & The Eagle Café in Cochabamba. They make a mean Pique Macho, and the portion sizes are generous.
Sopa de Maní

Bolivians love soup, and peanut soup (Sopa de Maní) is one of the top choices. Made with peanuts, vegetables, and pieces of meat, then topped with crispy fries, this creamy soup is rich and hearty. It’s comforting, filling, and perfect after a long day exploring the stunning landscapes of Bolivia.
Where to try it: Restaurants across the country serve Sopa de Maní, but Mercado Lanza in La Paz is a perfect place to enjoy a bowl of this comforting dish with locals. It’s budget-friendly and full of flavor.
Fricasé
If you’re in Bolivia during the colder months, Fricasé should be on the top of your list. A traditional soup made with pork (or sometimes beef), white corn, potatoes, and peppers, it’s known for being both spicy and rich. This dish originated from the indigenous people of Bolivia, and it’s still widely loved across the country.
Where to try it: One of the best places in La Paz to eat Fricasé is Fricase Paceño Doneraki. It’s popular with locals, and they serve generous portions.
Silpancho
Silpancho is a traditional plate from Cochabamba that consists of a large, breaded meat cutlet topped with a fried egg. It sits on a bed of rice, potatoes, and sliced tomatoes. The meal is simple yet filling, and you’ll see it served in homes and local restaurants. It’s a heavy dish, but totally worth it if you have a big appetite.
Where to try it: Check out Café Paris in Sucre. While the café’s name doesn’t scream “authentic Bolivian cuisine,” trust me, their Silpancho is amazing and packed with flavor.
Street Foods to Savor
Anticuchos
Walk the streets of any Bolivian city in the evening, and the smell of grilled meat will lead you straight to the anticucho vendors. These beef heart skewers are served with potato and a spicy peanut sauce. Don’t let the idea of eating heart scare you—it’s actually tender, flavorful, and one of Bolivia’s most beloved street foods.

Where to get it: You can grab them from street vendors pretty much everywhere in La Paz. Head towards El Prado Avenue, and you’ll find some of the best vendors grilling up anticuchos on the spot, especially in the evenings.
Llajwa
While not technically a dish but more of a condiment, Llajwa is a spicy sauce that you absolutely need to try. Made from tomatoes, hot peppers, coriander, and sometimes onions, it’s incredibly fiery and often found alongside any meal. It’s commonly served with empanadas, grilled meats, and soups, and it’s said that no meal is complete without a side of Llajwa in Bolivia.
Where to get it: You can find Llajwa at almost every local eatery, but try the market stalls at Mercado Central in Sucre for some of the spiciest and tastiest versions.
Humintas
Humintas are Bolivia’s take on tamales. They consist of a moist, corn-based dough mixed with cheese, wrapped in corn husks, and steamed or baked. Sweet versions are sometimes sold, but the salty cheese-filled humintas are more popular. They’re often served as a breakfast or mid-day snack.

Where to try them: For a truly authentic huminta, try a street vendor near Mercado Camacho in La Paz, or in Tarija, where they’re especially popular.
Top Restaurants for Traditional Bolivian Cuisine
Gustu, La Paz
Founded by Claus Meyer (the co-founder of Noma in Copenhagen), Gustu focuses on using local Bolivian ingredients and showcasing the country’s culinary diversity. The restaurant is high-end, but it offers tasting menus that bring out the beauty and richness of this nation’s produce. From llama meat to exotic fruits, Gustu is a unique experience.
Location: Calle 10, La Paz.

La Casa del Camba, Santa Cruz
If you’re in Santa Cruz and want to experience the flavors of the eastern part of Bolivia, head to La Casa del Camba. This restaurant celebrates typical Santa Cruz dishes, like Majao (fried rice with meat and plantains) and Locro (a hearty rice soup with pork). The vibe is super relaxed, and it’s popular with locals wanting to enjoy traditional, home-style meals.
Location: Calle Soliz de Olguín.
Picana La Norteñita, Potosí
In Potosí, don’t miss a chance to try Picana. This is a special dish typically eaten at Christmas, but you can find it year-round if you know where to look! It’s a slow-cooked stew made with beef, chicken, corn, and vegetables, flavored with wine and spices. La Norteñita does an amazing version of the dish, and it’s well worth a visit if you’re in Potosí.
Location: Calle Lanza #734.
Nueva Toledo, Cochabamba
Cochabamba is known as the food capital of Bolivia, and Nueva Toledo is one of the city’s top choices for authentic Bolivian cuisine. You’ll find many classic dishes here, including the famous chicha, a fermented corn drink that’s widely consumed in the region. Their Cazuela de Maní, another version of peanut soup with unique local touches, is worth the stop alone.
Location: Avenida Libertador 1119.
Final Tips for Eating in Bolivia
Stick to local spots: The best Bolivian food often comes from humble street vendors or small neighborhood restaurants. Don’t be afraid to explore markets and popular local spots, where you’ll find the best deals and most authentic flavors. Always ask the locals for their favorite food stands—chances are they’ll point you to something amazing!
Keep cash on hand: Many street vendors don’t accept cards, so it’s a good idea to carry small bills when you’re planning to eat out. Street food prices are usually budget-friendly, so you won’t need much, but having change helps.
Embrace the spice: Bolivia’s salsas and condiments, like Llajwa, can be quite spicy! Give them a try even if you’re not a spice fan—you might be pleasantly surprised. Just start with a small portion.
In conclusion, Bolivia’s food scene is an experience in itself, rich in history and flavors. Whether you’re enjoying a meal at a street stall or treating yourself to a fancier restaurant, you’re bound to discover something unforgettable. From the warm hospitality to the bold flavors, your tastebuds are in for a treat. Just come hungry!
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