26 Must-Try Foods & Drinks When Visiting Chile (2025) 🇨🇱


Video: What to Eat & Drink in Chile.








Ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey through Chile? From the bustling markets of Santiago to the windswept shores of Chiloé Island, Chile’s culinary scene is bursting with flavors that will surprise and delight you. Did you know that Chile produces some of the world’s finest wines and a national spirit called pisco that has inspired iconic cocktails like the Terremoto? But that’s just the tip of the iceberg!

In this ultimate guide, we’ll uncover 26 must-try Chilean foods and drinks — from savory empanadas and creamy pastel de choclo to refreshing mote con huesillo and the festive cola de mono. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a dessert fanatic, or a cocktail enthusiast, Chile’s diverse gastronomy promises an unforgettable adventure for your taste buds. Plus, we’ll share insider tips on where to find authentic dishes and how to navigate the local food culture like a pro. Hungry yet? Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

  • Chile’s cuisine is a vibrant fusion of indigenous, Spanish, and immigrant influences, offering unique dishes like humitas, curanto, and pastel de jaiba.
  • Seafood lovers rejoice! Coastal specialties such as machas a la parmesana and locos con mayonesa showcase Chile’s Pacific bounty.
  • Don’t miss Chile’s iconic drinks: pisco cocktails, terremoto, and the refreshing mote con huesillo are essential sips.
  • Sweet tooth? Indulge in alfajores, kuchen, and po’e de plátano — desserts that tell stories of Chile’s cultural tapestry.
  • Pro tips: Visit local markets like Mercado Central, try street food staples like choripán, and embrace Chilean dining etiquette for an authentic experience.

👉 Shop Chilean flavors and beverages:

Ready to savor every bite and sip? Your Chilean culinary adventure starts here!

Table of Contents

Quick Tips and Facts

For an unforgettable Chilean adventure, start by exploring the Chile Vacay guide to discover the best of Chile. When it comes to must-try foods and drinks in Chile, there’s a plethora of options to indulge in. Here are some quick tips and facts to get you started:

  • Chilean cuisine is a unique blend of indigenous, Spanish, and Italian influences, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage.
  • The official tourism website of Chile (www.chile.travel) is an excellent resource for planning your trip and discovering local flavors.
  • For a truly immersive experience, consider visiting local markets like the Mercado Central in Santiago, where you can sample a variety of traditional dishes and drinks.
  • Don’t forget to try some of the local fruits, such as the calafate, which is a type of berry that’s native to Chile and used in various desserts and drinks.

The Culinary Soul of Chile: A Flavorful Journey Through History and Geography

a market with lots of different types of vegetables

Chile’s culinary landscape is shaped by its geography, with the Andes Mountains, the Pacific Ocean, and the Atacama Desert all contributing to the country’s unique flavor profile. From the Mapuche indigenous people to the Spanish conquistadors, each culture has left its mark on Chilean cuisine. To learn more about Chile’s history and geography, visit the Chilean government’s official website.

A Brief History of Chilean Cuisine

Chilean cuisine has a rich and diverse history, with influences from various cultures. The indigenous people of Chile, such as the Mapuche, introduced foods like potatoes, maize, and quinoa, which are still staples in Chilean cuisine today. The Spanish brought their own culinary traditions, including the use of olive oil, garlic, and pork. Later, Italian and German immigrants introduced new ingredients and cooking techniques, further enriching the country’s culinary landscape.

Must-Try Chilean Food Experiences: Savory Delights 🍽️


Video: Chile Food Tour | Top Foods You Need to Try in Chile.








Chilean cuisine offers a wide range of savory delights, from hearty stews to fresh seafood. Here are some must-try dishes:

1. Empanadas: The Ubiquitous Chilean Pocket of Joy 🥟

Empanadas are a staple in Chilean cuisine, with various fillings such as beef, chicken, seafood, and cheese. You can find empanadas at local bakeries, street food stalls, and restaurants throughout the country. For a unique empanada experience, try the empanada de pino, filled with beef, onions, hard-boiled egg, and raisins.

2. Pastel de Choclo: Chile’s Iconic Corn Pie Masterpiece 🌽

Pastel de choclo is a traditional Chilean dish made with corn, beef, chicken, and onions, topped with a crust of corn dough. This hearty pie is a must-try when visiting Chile. You can find pastel de choclo at local restaurants and food festivals.

3. Cazuela: The Heartwarming Chilean Comfort Stew 🍲

Cazuela is a comforting stew made with beef, chicken, or lamb, pumpkin, potato, and corn. This dish is perfect for a cold day and can be found at local restaurants and food stalls. For a unique twist, try the cazuela nogada, served with a walnut sauce.

4. Humitas: Sweet & Savory Chilean Corn Tamales 🌿

Humitas are traditional Chilean tamales made with fresh corn, onion, basil, and butter, wrapped in corn husks and steamed. These sweet and savory treats are a must-try when visiting Chile. You can find humitas at local markets and food festivals.

5. Porotos Granados: A Vibrant Summer Bean Stew ☀️

Porotos granados is a colorful summer stew made with fresh beans, corn, pumpkin, onion, garlic, and basil. This dish is perfect for a warm day and can be found at local restaurants and food stalls.

6. Machas a la Parmesana: A Coastal Seafood Sensation 🐚

Machas a la parmesana is a seafood dish made with razor clams, cheese, and wine, baked in the shell. This dish is a must-try when visiting the coastal regions of Chile. You can find machas a la parmesana at local seafood restaurants.

7. Pastel de Jaiba: The Rich Chilean Crab Pie 🦀

Pastel de jaiba is a rich and flavorful pie made with crab meat, bread soaked in milk, and onion. This dish is a must-try when visiting the coastal regions of Chile. You can find pastel de jaiba at local seafood restaurants.

8. Curanto al Hoyo: Chiloé’s Ancestral Feast 🔥

Curanto al hoyo is a traditional feast from Chiloé Island, made with meat, seafood, potatoes, and vegetables, cooked in a hole with heated stones. This dish is a must-try when visiting Chiloé Island. You can find curanto al hoyo at local restaurants and food festivals.

9. Reineta & Merluza Frita: Fresh Catches from the Pacific 🐟

Reineta and merluza frita are two popular seafood dishes in Chile, made with fresh fish, batter, and frying oil. These dishes are a must-try when visiting the coastal regions of Chile. You can find reineta and merluza frita at local seafood restaurants.

10. Choripán & Completo: Chilean Street Food Staples 🌭

Choripán and completo are two popular street food dishes in Chile, made with grilled sausage, bread, tomato, mayonnaise, and avocado. These dishes are a must-try when visiting Chile. You can find choripán and completo at local street food stalls and markets.

11. Sopaipillas: Fried Pumpkin Fritters, Sweet or Savory 🧡

Sopaipillas are traditional Chilean fritters made with pumpkin, flour, and lard, deep-fried and served with chancaca (a type of sugar) or pebre (a type of hot sauce). These sweet and savory treats are a must-try when visiting Chile. You can find sopaipillas at local markets and food festivals.

12. Pebre: The Essential Chilean Salsa 🌶️

Pebre is a traditional Chilean salsa made with onions, coriander, garlic, oil, salt, and green chili pepper. This salsa is a must-try when visiting Chile. You can find pebre at local restaurants and food stalls.

13. Locos con Mayonesa: A Prized Abalone Delicacy 🌊

Locos con mayonesa is a prized abalone dish made with abalone, mayonnaise, and potatoes. This dish is a must-try when visiting the coastal regions of Chile. You can find locos con mayonesa at local seafood restaurants.

14. Milcao & Chapalele: Chiloé’s Potato & Flour Wonders 🥔

Milcao and chapalele are two traditional potato dishes from Chiloé Island, made with potatoes, flour, and lard. These dishes are a must-try when visiting Chiloé Island. You can find milcao and chapalele at local restaurants and food festivals.

15. Asado: The Chilean BBQ Tradition 🥩

Asado is a traditional BBQ tradition in Chile, made with meat, vegetables, and potatoes, grilled over an open flame. This dish is a must-try when visiting Chile. You can find asado at local restaurants and food festivals.

Must-Try Chilean Drinks: Sips of Culture & Celebration 🥂


Video: Must-Try Chilean Drinks: A Guide to the Best Beverages in Chile.







Chilean drinks offer a unique blend of traditional and modern flavors. Here are some must-try drinks:

16. Pisco: Chile’s National Spirit & Its Iconic Cocktails 🍇

Pisco is a traditional Chilean spirit made from grapes, used in various cocktails such as the Pisco Sour. This drink is a must-try when visiting Chile. You can find pisco at local bars and restaurants.

17. Chilean Wine: Exploring World-Class Vineyards & Varietals 🍷

Chilean wine is renowned for its quality and diversity, with various vineyards and varietals to explore. This drink is a must-try when visiting Chile. You can find Chilean wine at local wine shops and vineyards.

18. Terremoto: The “Earthquake” Cocktail Experience 🍹

Terremoto is a traditional Chilean cocktail made with white wine, pineapple ice cream, fernet, and grenadine syrup. This drink is a must-try when visiting Chile. You can find terremoto at local bars and restaurants.

19. Mote con Huesillo: A Refreshing Summer Dessert-Drink 🍑

Mote con huesillo is a traditional Chilean drink made with wheat, dried peaches, and water, served as a refreshing summer drink. This drink is a must-try when visiting Chile. You can find mote con huesillo at local markets and food festivals.

20. Kunstmann & The Chilean Craft Beer Revolution 🍺

Kunstmann is a popular Chilean beer brand, known for its quality and diversity. This drink is a must-try when visiting Chile. You can find Kunstmann at local bars and restaurants.

21. Chicha & Borgoña: Traditional Fermented Delights 🍎

Chicha and borgoña are traditional Chilean fermented drinks made with fruits and grains, offering a unique flavor experience. These drinks are a must-try when visiting Chile. You can find chicha and borgoña at local markets and food festivals.

22. Cola de Mono: Chile’s Festive Christmas Drink 🎄

Cola de mono is a traditional Chilean Christmas drink made with coffee, milk, sugar, and aguardiente, served as a festive holiday drink. This drink is a must-try when visiting Chile during the holiday season. You can find cola de mono at local markets and food festivals.

23. Jugos Naturales: Fresh Fruit Juices Galore 🍓

Jugos naturales are traditional Chilean fruit juices made with fresh fruits, offering a refreshing and healthy drink option. These drinks are a must-try when visiting Chile. You can find jugos naturales at local markets and food festivals.

Chilean Desserts & Sweet Treats: A Delightful Ending 🍰


Video: Delicious Chilean Desserts: Chile's 15 Most Popular Sweet Treats.








Chilean desserts offer a sweet and delicious ending to any meal. Here are some must-try desserts:

24. Alfajores: Dulce de Leche Sandwich Cookies 🍪

Alfajores are traditional Chilean cookies made with dulce de leche, flour, and sugar, offering a sweet and crunchy treat. These cookies are a must-try when visiting Chile. You can find alfajores at local bakeries and markets.

25. Kuchen: German Influence in Chilean Baking 🇩🇪

Kuchen is a traditional Chilean cake made with flour, sugar, and eggs, influenced by German baking traditions. This cake is a must-try when visiting Chile. You can find kuchen at local bakeries and markets.

26. Po’e de Plátano: Easter Island’s Unique Banana Cake 🍌

Po’e de plátano is a traditional Easter Island banana cake made with bananas, flour, and sugar, offering a unique and delicious dessert experience. This cake is a must-try when visiting Easter Island. You can find po’e de plátano at local markets and food festivals.


Video: Chilean Traditional Dishes – 10 Traditional Chilean Dishes By Traditional Dishes.








Navigating Chilean cuisine can be a daunting task, but with these tips, you’ll be well on your way to discovering the best of Chilean food and drink.

Where to Find Authentic Chilean Food 📍

To find authentic Chilean food, visit local markets, food festivals, and traditional restaurants. These places offer a wide range of traditional dishes and drinks, made with fresh and local ingredients.

Dietary Considerations & Allergies in Chile 🥦

When visiting Chile, it’s essential to consider dietary restrictions and allergies. Many traditional Chilean dishes are made with meat, dairy, and gluten, so it’s crucial to inform your server or chef about any dietary restrictions.

Dining Etiquette: Blending In Like a Local 🍽️

To blend in like a local, follow these dining etiquette tips:

  • Use your hands to eat traditional dishes like empanadas and choripán.
  • Try new foods and be adventurous when it comes to Chilean cuisine.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting rural areas.

Food Safety Tips for Travelers 💧

To stay safe while traveling in Chile, follow these food safety tips:

  • Drink bottled water or filtered water to avoid waterborne illnesses.
  • Avoid eating undercooked meat or raw vegetables to prevent food poisoning.
  • Wash your hands frequently, especially before eating, to prevent the spread of illnesses.

Conclusion: Your Chilean Culinary Adventure Awaits! ✨

a wooden table topped with plates and bowls of food

Wow, what a delicious journey we’ve been on! From the sweet and savory humitas to the earth-shaking Terremoto cocktail, Chile’s culinary landscape is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, history, and culture. Whether you’re savoring the coastal delights of machas a la parmesana or indulging in the comforting warmth of cazuela, each bite tells a story of Chile’s diverse geography and rich heritage.

We’ve uncovered must-try dishes and drinks that will elevate your trip from ordinary to extraordinary. The blend of indigenous ingredients and immigrant influences makes Chilean cuisine truly unique — and trust us, you’ll want to sample as many dishes as possible! Plus, with our tips on where to find authentic eats and how to navigate dietary needs, you’re set up for success.

So, are you ready to dive fork-first into Chile’s gastronomic treasures? We say, absolutely yes! Your taste buds will thank you, and your memories will be seasoned with unforgettable flavors. Don’t just visit Chile — savor it.

Hungry for more? Here are some handy shopping and reading resources to keep your Chilean food passion alive:

FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered 🔥

A plate of food on a table with a cup of coffee

Chile boasts a rich culinary heritage with iconic dishes like empanadas de pino (meat-filled pastries), pastel de choclo (corn pie), cazuela (hearty stew), and machas a la parmesana (cheesy razor clams). Each dish reflects Chile’s diverse regions—from the mountains to the coast. Don’t miss curanto, a traditional Mapuche feast cooked underground, especially if you visit Chiloé Island.

Read more about “17 Must-See Tourist Attractions in Chile You Can’t Miss (2025) 🇨🇱”

Are there any unique beverages that Chile is known for, and where can I find them?

Absolutely! Chile is famous for pisco, a grape brandy used in cocktails like the Pisco Sour and the uniquely Chilean Piscola (pisco with cola). The Terremoto cocktail, with its mix of white wine and pineapple ice cream, is a must-try local favorite. For non-alcoholic options, try mote con huesillo, a refreshing summer drink made from wheat and dried peaches, widely available at street vendors and markets.

What are some must-visit restaurants and cafes in Santiago, Chile, for an authentic dining experience?

Santiago is a culinary hotspot. For traditional fare, check out Liguria for classic Chilean dishes in a lively atmosphere, or Fuente Alemana for legendary choripán sandwiches. For seafood lovers, Mercado Central offers fresh catches daily. For a modern twist on Chilean cuisine, Boragó is a world-renowned restaurant that showcases native ingredients with innovative techniques.

Can I find any vegan or vegetarian options in traditional Chilean cuisine, and if so, what are they?

While Chilean cuisine is traditionally meat-heavy, there are vegetarian-friendly dishes like porotos granados (summer bean stew), humitas (corn tamales), and sopaipillas (fried pumpkin fritters). Many restaurants now cater to vegan and vegetarian diets, especially in Santiago and Valparaíso, offering creative takes on traditional dishes. Always ask for modifications or look for places specializing in plant-based Chilean cuisine.

What is the best way to experience the local food culture in Chile, such as markets or food tours?

To truly immerse yourself, visit local markets like Santiago’s Mercado Central or Valparaíso’s Mercado Cardonal, where you can sample fresh seafood, fruits, and street food. Food tours are another excellent option—they often include tastings of empanadas, pisco cocktails, and visits to artisanal producers. Some tours even take you to vineyards or rural kitchens for hands-on experiences.

Are there any specific foods or drinks that are commonly served during Chilean holidays and celebrations?

Yes! During Christmas, Chileans enjoy cola de mono, a festive cocktail made with coffee, milk, sugar, and aguardiente. Empanadas and asado (barbecue) are staples during family gatherings and national holidays like Fiestas Patrias (September 18th). Sweet treats like alfajores and kuchen often accompany celebrations.

Don’t miss alfajores, delicate cookies filled with dulce de leche, and kuchen, a German-influenced fruit tart. For something uniquely Chilean, try po’e de plátano, a banana cake from Easter Island, or mote con huesillo, which doubles as a dessert and refreshing drink. These sweets perfectly round out your Chilean culinary adventure.

Reference Links: Our Sources & Further Reading 📚

Ready to taste your way through Chile? Pack your appetite and your sense of adventure — Chile’s culinary treasures await!

Jacob
Jacob
Articles: 94

Related Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Trending now

Featured image for 12 Must-See Chile Attractions Blending Culture, History Adventure 2025
12 Must-See Chile Attractions Blending Culture, History & Adventure 🌎 (2025)
Featured image for How to Rent a Car in Chile 12 Must-Know Tips Requirements 2025
How to Rent a Car in Chile: 12 Must-Know Tips & Requirements 🚗 (2025)
How Do I Plan a Trip to Chile on a Budget? 10 Insider Tips for 2025 🇨🇱
17 Must-See Tourist Attractions in Chile You Can’t Miss (2025) 🇨🇱