Chile is known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant cities, but the food here packs just as much of a punch. If you’re visiting, you’ll want to try as many traditional dishes as you can. From hearty stews to crispy street food, Chilean cuisine is comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re exploring Santiago or wandering the coast, you won’t need to look far for a delicious meal.
Traditional Dishes You Can’t Miss
Empanadas
Empanadas are a staple snack in Chile. These savory pastries are filled with a variety of ingredients. The most traditional kind is called “empanada de pino”, which has ground beef, onions, hard-boiled eggs, raisins, and olives. These empanadas are often baked, but you can also find them fried. If you see a roadside stand selling these, stop and buy one.
Pastel de Choclo
Pastel de choclo is the ultimate comfort food. This corn pie is layered with minced beef or chicken, onions, hard-boiled eggs, and olives. The star of the dish is the sweet corn topping, giving it a creamy and slightly sweet flavor. It’s a must-try if you’re visiting Chile.
Curanto
Curanto is a legendary dish from the southern part of the country, especially Chiloé. Traditionally, curanto is cooked in a pit covered with hot stones, but you can also find it on restaurant menus. It’s a mix of meat, seafood, potatoes, and vegetables, all steamed together. If you love seafood, this dish is for you.
Cazuela
Cazuela is a traditional stew made with beef, chicken, or pork, along with pumpkin, corn, potatoes, and rice. It’s warm, hearty, and perfect for colder days. Each bowl of cazuela is cooked with whole pieces of meat and vegetables, making it a filling meal.
Lomo a lo Pobre
If you’re looking for a plate that screams indulgence, try “lomo a lo pobre”. This dish has sautéed steak, topped with fried eggs, and served with French fries. It’s typically a large portion, so come hungry.
Street Foods Worth Savoring
Completos
Chilean hot dogs, called “completos”, are something else. They’re larger than the regular-sized hot dogs you might be used to, and their toppings are wild. A traditional completo comes with diced tomatoes, sauerkraut, and a large amount of mayonnaise. For the daring, try an “italiano”, which has avocado instead of sauerkraut, giving it the colors of the Italian flag.
Sopaipillas
A key player in Chilean street food, sopaipillas are fried disks of dough made from pumpkin puree and flour. They’re cheap, easy to find, and great for a quick snack. You’ll often find vendors selling them on street corners, especially in the cities. Top them with “pebre” (a spicy and tangy Chilean salsa) or mustard for added flavor.
Mote con Huesillo
This is the go-to summer drink. Mote con huesillo is a refreshing concoction made with wheat and dried peaches soaked in sweet syrup. You’ll see vendors selling it throughout Chile, and it’s perfect for cooling off after a long day wandering the city.
Machas a la Parmesana
If you find yourself by the coast, machas a la parmesana is a seafood dish you have to try. “Machas” are razor clams, and they’re served baked with Parmesan cheese on top until they’re golden and crispy. These are a great quick bite at seaside restaurants.
The Best Local Restaurants in Chile
La Piojera (Santiago)
If you’re looking for a dive bar with a lot of character, head to La Piojera. This spot is famous for its “terremoto”, a potent cocktail made of pipeño wine, pineapple ice cream, and grenadine. It’s the kind of no-frills place where locals hang out and is perfect for trying something truly Chilean. Order some classic snacks like empanadas or completos to enjoy along with your drink.
Liguria (Santiago)
Liguria is one of Santiago’s most iconic restaurants, loved by locals and tourists alike. Serving traditional Chilean dishes with a modern twist, it’s a great spot to try a range of local flavors. The decor is memorable too, with vintage posters and a cozy atmosphere. Their pastel de choclo and lomo a lo pobre are excellent picks.
Fuente Alemana (Santiago)
For a good completo, Fuente Alemana is the place to go. This restaurant is famous for its sandwiches, hot dogs, and large portions. While you’re here, make sure you try their churrasco — a steak sandwich topped with avocado, tomatoes, and mayonnaise. It’s been around for decades and keeps visitors coming back for more.
Donde La Cuca (Valparaíso)
If you’re roaming the colorful streets of Valparaíso, make a stop at Donde La Cuca. Famous for its empanadas, this small local eatery is a great place to grab a satisfying bite. The fried empanadas are massive, and the fillings range from traditional pino to seafood options.
El Huaso Enrique (Santiago)
For some interesting live cueca music (Chile’s national dance) and great food, El Huaso Enrique is a hidden gem in Santiago’s Quinta Normal neighborhood. The menu focuses on Chilean classics, including cazuela and charquicán (a traditional Chilean stew made with dried meat). It’s more than just a place to eat; it’s a cultural experience.
Marisquería Donde Augusto (Santiago)
Located in the Mercado Central, this seafood restaurant is where you’ll find some of the best and freshest seafood in Santiago. The prices are a bit higher compared to nearby stalls, but the variety of shellfish and fish makes it worth every penny. Try the congrio, a local fish, which is served fried, grilled, or in a stew.
Tips for Eating Like a Local In Chile
Don’t Skip The Pebre
Pebre is Chile’s must-have condiment. It’s a mixture of chopped tomatoes, onions, coriander, garlic, and a touch of spice. You’ll find it at almost every restaurant, and it’s perfect for spicing up your dish. Spread it on bread, mix it into rice, or spoon it over meat dishes. It’s everywhere, and for a good reason — it makes everything taste better.
Lunch is the Main Meal
Chileans typically have their main meal during lunch, not dinner. Many restaurants offer set lunch menus called “menú del día”, which usually consist of a starter, main course, and dessert for a reasonable price. It’s a good way to save money and experience local classics.
Eat Seafood by the Coast
Chile, with its long coastline, offers some of the world’s best seafood. When in cities like Valparaíso, you’ll find that seafood options are more plentiful and fresher. In particular, try dishes like ceviche, congrio, and machas by the ocean.
Look for Small, Family-Owned Restaurants
While Chile has many high-end options, the real gems are the small family-owned restaurants called “picadas”. These places are where you’ll find the most authentic homemade meals. They typically don’t advertise much, but if you follow the locals, you’ll find some hidden culinary treasures.
Final Thoughts
Chile has a rich and varied cuisine that’s not to be missed. Whether you’re into hearty stews, fresh seafood, or fried street food, there’s something for everyone. The key is simple: eat where the locals eat. Don’t be afraid to explore, try something new, and savor the traditional dishes that make Chile such a fantastic destination for food lovers.
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