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Santiago food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Santiago.
What to eat in Santiago
6 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Pastel de Choclo
A savory corn and meat casserole, topped with a sweet corn crust. It's a hearty and comforting dish, showcasing the sweetness of Chilean corn.
Empanada de Pino
A baked pastry filled with ground beef, onions, olives, and a hard-boiled egg. The 'pino' filling is a quintessential Chilean flavor profile.
Cazuela de Vacuno
A rich beef stew with chunks of beef, potatoes, corn on the cob, green beans, and pumpkin. It's a soul-warming soup perfect for cooler days.
Lomo a lo Pobre
Literally 'poor man's steak,' this is a generous plate of thinly sliced steak topped with fried eggs, sautéed onions, and french fries. It's a decadent, no-frills meal.
Chorrillana
A massive platter of french fries topped with sautéed beef, onions, and fried eggs. It's designed for sharing and is a staple in many Chilean bars.
Sopaipillas con Pebre
Fried pumpkin and flour flatbreads served with pebre, a spicy salsa made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and chili. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Bohemian and artistic, with cobblestone streets and a mix of traditional and modern eateries.
Chic and trendy, known for its independent boutiques, antique shops, and a diverse culinary scene.
Bustling and historic, a vibrant marketplace offering fresh seafood and traditional Chilean dishes.
Lively and bohemian, famous for its nightlife, street art, and a wide array of restaurants and bars.
Dietary notes
Chilean cuisine is traditionally meat- and seafood-heavy. While vegetarian options are becoming more common, especially in trendy neighborhoods like Barrio Italia, finding vegan or gluten-free dishes can require careful navigation and communication.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is customary at restaurants, usually around 10% of the bill, often already included as 'servicio' on the receipt. If not, it's appreciated.
- •Credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for smaller vendors or street food.
- •Dinner is typically eaten late, often starting around 9 PM or later, especially on weekends.
- •When sharing dishes like Chorrillana, it's polite to wait for everyone to be served before digging in.
- •It's common to greet shopkeepers and restaurant staff with a 'buenos días' or 'buenas tardes'.