When you travel to Uruguay, you’ll want to dive into the local food scene. The country is known for its rich flavors, high-quality beef, and some serious comfort food. Whether you’re strolling through the markets or sitting in a family-run restaurant, there’s something delicious at every corner.
Uruguay’s cuisine has a big focus on simplicity and top-notch ingredients. The food is hearty, flavorful, and very satisfying. Let’s look at the best dishes to try and the top places to grab a bite!
Traditional Dishes You Must Try
Asado (Grilled Meat)
Uruguayans love their barbecue. Asado isn’t just a meal—it’s a national tradition. Held at home, parks, and even by the beach, you’ll get to taste perfectly grilled beef, ribs, chicken, and sometimes even lamb.
You can find asado all over the country, but a great place to grab one is “El Palenque” in Montevideo’s Mercado del Puerto. Their meats are grilled over an open flame and seasoned simply with salt. It’s pure, smoky goodness.
Chivito (Uruguayan Sandwich)
This sandwich is packed with flavor and is one of Uruguay’s iconic street foods. A traditional chivito is loaded with thin slices of steak, ham, cheese, eggs, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise—all tucked inside a soft bread roll. It’s served with fries on the side.
Head to “Bar Arocena” in Carrasco for a fantastic chivito. The portions are generous, and the sandwich is nothing short of delicious.
Empanadas
These savory pastries are everywhere in Uruguay. Filled with a mixture of minced beef, onions, olives, and spices, they’re the perfect grab-and-go snack. You can also find empanadas filled with chicken, cheese, or vegetables.
Look for local bakeries or street vendors to get your hands on fresh empanadas. “La Pasiva” in Montevideo is a good spot to try some classic versions.
Hearty Comfort Foods to Warm Your Soul
Puchero (Uruguayan Stew)
Puchero is a slow-cooked stew made with beef, potatoes, squash, corn, and carrots. It’s warm, filling, and perfect during cool weather. The broth is usually rich and flavorful, enhanced by the long cooking time.
If you want to try puchero like the locals, go to “El Fogón” in downtown Montevideo. They serve a version that’ll satisfy you to the core.
Guiso de Lentejas (Lentil Stew)
This is another dish that’s all about comfort. Lentils, onions, carrots, and sometimes a bit of chorizo are simmered together to create a thick, hearty stew. It’s a dish you’ll often find on a family’s dinner table.
For a taste of guiso de lentejas, visit “La Cocina de Pedro” in Montevideo. Their take on this dish is homestyle and packed with flavor.
Milanesa (Breaded and Fried Meat)
Milanesa is a breaded and fried cutlet, usually made from beef or chicken. It’s crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and often served with mashed potatoes or a salad. There’s also a napolitana version, topped with ham, cheese, and tomato sauce.
Check out “La Pulpería” in Montevideo for a delicious milanesa. It’s crispy and well-seasoned, just as it should be.
Street Food You Need to Try
Choripán (Sausage Sandwich)
A favorite for street food lovers, choripán is a grilled sausage served in a crusty roll. The sausage is juicy, loaded with flavor, and typically topped with chimichurri sauce. It’s quick, cheap, and hits the spot when you’re on the go.
Walk through the Ciudad Vieja district in Montevideo, and you’ll likely come across street vendors selling quality choripán. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Tortas Fritas (Fried Dough)
Tortas fritas are fried dough pastries typically enjoyed with mate, Uruguay’s signature tea. These deep-fried pieces are crispy on the outside while staying soft and pillowy inside. They’re slightly sweet and perfect for a quick snack.
You’ll often find street stalls selling freshly made tortas fritas, especially on rainy days. There’s a spot near Plaza Independencia where the vendors do an excellent job frying them up golden brown.
Pizza a la Parrilla (Grilled Pizza)
Uruguayan pizza has its own twist—it’s often cooked on the grill. The crust is crispy due to the open flame, and toppings range from classic tomato and cheese to ingredients like ham, olives, and anchovies. Don’t add too many toppings, though; Uruguayans like to keep their pizzas simple and let the ingredients stand out.
For some of the best grilled pizza, head to “Rodelu” in Montevideo. Their pizzas have the perfect charred crust and fresh toppings.
Sweet Treats to Satisfy Your Cravings
Dulce de Leche (Caramel Spread)
If there’s one thing Uruguayans love, it’s dulce de leche. It’s a thick, sweet, milk-based caramel spread used in desserts or enjoyed straight out of the jar. You can find it in cakes, donuts, and pastries. It’s rich, gooey, and addictive.
For the best dulce de leche treats, I recommend stopping by “Las Delicias” in Punta del Este. Their alfajores filled with dulce de leche are a real treat.
Chajá (Meringue Cake)
This traditional cake is light and fluffy, made with sponge cake, whipped cream, meringue, and peach. It’s sweet without being heavy and offers a wonderful mix of textures.
If you’re in Paysandú, visit “Confitería Las Familias,” where this cake was created. It’s the most authentic version you can try.
Bizcochos (Pastries)
Bizcochos are small, flaky pastries that come in both savory and sweet varieties. The sweet ones are often filled with dulce de leche or chocolate, while the savory ones might be stuffed with cheese or ham.
There’s no wrong place to grab bizcochos—they’re found in bakeries across the country. But if you’re in Montevideo, I highly recommend stopping by “Panadería La París” for your morning fix.
Must-Visit Restaurants for Authentic Uruguayan Cuisine
El Palenque (Montevideo)
Located in Mercado del Puerto, this place is an institution for anyone seeking amazing grilled meats. It’s famous for its asado, but they also do seafood and other traditional dishes. It’s lively, with great service, and lets you enjoy the best Uruguay has to offer.
La Pulpería (Montevideo)
This no-frills spot is known for fantastic milanesas and other comfort foods. The interior is simple, but the food is spectacular, hearty, and very affordable. Be sure to show up hungry—it’s hard to stop eating here.
Café Misterio (Carrasco)
A little fancier but still with a local flair, this restaurant is a great place for those looking for a refined take on Uruguayan favorites. Their seafood dishes are exceptional, and if you’re into fusion, some of the meals blend local ingredients with international flavors.
Parador La Huella (José Ignacio)
If you head outside of the cities, Parador La Huella is a must-visit. It’s one of the top beachside restaurants in the country, known for fresh seafood and open-air dining. The vibe is chill, and it’s perfect for long, lazy meals overlooking the ocean.
Tips for Eating Like a Local
First, don’t be shy to ask the people around you which restaurants they recommend. Uruguayans are proud of their food, and they’ll be happy to point you to the best spots.
Also, be sure to pair your meals with mate, Uruguay’s famous herbal tea. You’ll find Uruguayans sipping it everywhere, and it’s a big part of their daily life.
And finally, try to embrace the slower pace of meals here. Uruguayans often take their time eating, especially when it’s asado. It’s about food and company, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the flavors!
Keep your appetite ready—Uruguay’s food will surprise and satisfy you in every bite.
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