Best Local & Traditional Foods to Try in Santiago
Discover the 6 best local and traditional foods to try in Santiago. Get AI-powered recommendations for authentic dishes, traditional cuisine, and the best restaurants.
Pastel de Choclo
This traditional Chilean corn pie is made with a layer of ground corn, meat, olives, and hard-boiled eggs, baked to perfection. It’s a comforting dish that balances sweet and savory flavors, showcasing the agricultural richness of Chile.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch or dinner
Cultural Significance
A beloved comfort food, representative of Chilean rural cuisine.
Where to try it
Cazuela
Cazuela is a hearty Chilean stew that consists of chicken or beef, potatoes, corn, and a variety of vegetables. It's a warming dish often enjoyed during family gatherings and reflects the local flavors and ingredients of the season.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch
Cultural Significance
A staple in Chilean homes, showcasing the country's agricultural bounty.
Where to try it
Completo
The Completo is a Chilean-style hot dog, usually topped with avocado, mayonnaise, and sauerkraut. It’s a popular street food, perfect for a quick bite while exploring the city.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
A quintessential Chilean street food loved by locals.
Where to try it
Tortas de Avena
These oatmeal cakes are a delicious local treat, often enjoyed with tea or coffee. They are soft, sweet, and have a delightful texture, making them a favorite among locals.
Ingredients
Best Time
snack time
Cultural Significance
A traditional pastry reflecting the home baking culture in Chile.
Where to try it
Mote con Huesillo
This refreshing drink combines dried peaches (huesillo) and husked wheat (mote) soaked in a sweet syrup, served chilled. It is a popular summer beverage enjoyed in parks and outdoor events.
Ingredients
Best Time
afternoon
Cultural Significance
A classic Chilean drink, traditionally enjoyed during the summer months.
Where to try it
Chilenito
This sweet sandwich cookie is filled with manjar (similar to dulce de leche) and often dusted with powdered sugar. It's a local favorite for dessert or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Best Time
dessert time
Cultural Significance
A beloved Chilean treat that showcases the country's penchant for sweets.