Must Try Foods in Santiago de Chile

We have compiled a list of cuisines you must try while in Santiago de Chile.

Updated to April 2024

The mountainous sights of Patagonia (Argentina) and the architectural wonders of Cuzco (Perú) might satisfy adventure travalers, but if you prefer to explore the tradition of a culture, you need to visit Santiago de Chile.

This city is a foodie’s paradise.

To go to Chile and not eat an empanada seems like some kind of cultural crime. This delicious traditional food is pure bliss!

Try it with a cheesy batter, or a local favorite, a combination of beef and olives.

For those who don’t know, empanadas are basically fried or baked dough pastries with filling inside. Depending on your preference, you can choose a filling of cheese, seafood or pino.

To experience the genuine Chilean taste, we suggest that you try pino, which is a savory mix of of beef, olives, onions and eggs. And don’t worry about their availability; these delicious pockets of goodness are available year-round in Chile.

Churrasco is basically thinly cut steak that is grilled to perfection and served atop local bread, accompanied by a dressing of mayonnaise, avocado and tomato.

This is such a common and famous cuisine in Chile that you’ll find it even when you are just out and about in the middle of the night. Churrasco sandwiches are difficult to find in any other part of the world, and even if you do, it won’t hold the same magic as it does in Chile, so you’d better take advantage on your next trip to Chile.

Chile is calling all meat-lovers with its wide range of meat-based dishes. Among them, the one that has gained quite a reputation is the Churrasco Sandwich.

You can customize this local sandwich by selecting the meat you fancy; typically you can find goat, lamb, beef or even llama in your Churrasco sandwich.

Literally, Pastel de Choclo is simply a corn pie, but every bite seems to hint at something much more. We are pretty sure that the magic is just hard work, a little bit of love, and a lot of experience from the chef.

Whatever the reason, it still feels like a dream when you bite down on the crispy crust and the deliciously seasoned ground beef oozes out to let your taste buds have a party.

When you are in Chile, eat what the Chileans eat and you will never fail to be amazed. This cuisine alone is almost reason enough to travel to Chile. You’ll find this delicious meal in the northern region of Chile, called Elqui Valley.

Stargazers will also love this destination because of its incredible, clear views of the night sky. This destination is located 5 hours outside of Santiago, but we assure you it’s completely worth the trek.

So, are you ready for the breathtaking views and scrumptious cuisines waiting for you in Santiago de Chile? Sometimes the best cuisines are not found in a five-star hotel or some other luxurious locale, but instead right in the street, crafted by a local vendor.

In Chile, mote con huesillo is definitely one of these urban delicacies. This Chilean beverage is an exclusive summertime drink, which not only chases away the scorching heat but also tastes heavenly.

Though it may look a bit strange to the unaccustomed traveler, with its sunken oats and floating peach, don’t let your fear of something new and unusual keep you from experiencing this delicious beverage for yourself.