Puerto Rican cuisine blends Spanish, African, and Taíno influences. Start with “Quisiera…” (I would like…). Must-try dishes include mofongo (mashed plantains) and lechón (roast pork). For mofongo, specify “Con camarones” (with shrimp) or “Con carne frita” (with fried meat). Try a piña colada, invented here. “Pegao” refers to crispy rice at the bottom of the…
Venezuelan cuisine is diverse and flavorful. Begin with “Me gustaría ordenar…” (I’d like to order…). Must-try dishes include arepas (corn patties) and pabellón criollo (national dish). For arepas, try “Reina pepiada” (chicken and avocado) or “Domino” (black beans and cheese). Try papelón con limón, a popular refreshing drink. “Tequeños” are beloved cheese sticks. Tipping 10%…
Uruguayan cuisine is known for its grilled meats. Start with “Quisiera pedir…” (I’d like to order…). Must-try dishes include chivito (steak sandwich) and asado (barbecue). For meat doneness, use “Jugoso” (rare), “A punto” (medium), or “Bien cocido” (well-done). Try mate, the national drink, or clericó, a fruit wine punch. “Parrilla” refers to a grill restaurant.…
Spanish cuisine varies greatly by region. Begin with “Me gustaría…” (I would like…). Must-try dishes include paella (rice dish) and tortilla española (potato omelette). For tapas, say “De tapeo” to go tapas-hopping. Try sangría or tinto de verano for wine-based drinks. “Pincho” or “Pintxo” in Basque country refers to small snacks. Tipping isn’t mandatory but…
Peruvian cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its diversity. Start with “Quisiera probar…” (I’d like to try…). Must-try dishes include ceviche (seafood in citrus) and lomo saltado (stir-fried beef). For ceviche, specify “Mixto” for mixed seafood or “De pescado” for fish only. Try pisco sour, the national cocktail. “Ají” refers to chili peppers, a common ingredient.…
Paraguayan cuisine is hearty and meat-centric. Begin with “Me gustaría comer…” (I’d like to eat…). Must-try dishes include sopa paraguaya (corn bread) and chipa guasu (corn cake). For beef, “Jugoso” means rare, “A punto” medium. Try tereré, a cold version of mate tea. “Mbejú” is a starchy flatbread. Tipping isn’t mandatory but 10% is appreciated…
Honduran cuisine is known for its hearty dishes. Begin with “Me puede traer…” (Can you bring me…). Must-try dishes include baleadas (flour tortilla with fillings) and sopa de caracol (conch soup). For baleada fillings, try “Con todo” for all toppings. “Anafre” refers to a traditional bean fondue. Try pinol, a cornmeal-based drink. Tipping isn’t mandatory…
Mexican cuisine is world-renowned for its flavors. Start with “Quisiera ordenar…” (I’d like to order…). Must-try dishes include tacos al pastor and mole poblano. For tacos, specify “Con todo” for all toppings or “Sin cebolla” for no onions. Try mezcal, tequila’s smoky cousin. “Agua fresca” refers to fresh fruit drinks. “Picoso” means very spicy. Tipping…
Nicaraguan cuisine is a blend of indigenous and Spanish influences. Begin with “Me gustaría probar…” (I’d like to try…). Must-try dishes include gallo pinto (rice and beans) and nacatamal (corn dough tamale). For plantains, ask for “Maduros” (sweet) or “Tostones” (savory). Try pinolillo, a traditional cornmeal and cacao drink. “Vigorón” is a popular street food…
Panamanian cuisine reflects its diverse cultural influences. Start with “Quisiera pedir…” (I’d like to order…). Must-try dishes include sancocho (chicken soup) and carimañolas (yuca fritters). For ceviche, try “Corvina” (sea bass) or “Pulpo” (octopus). “Seco” refers to a traditional rum drink. “Con culantro” means with cilantro, a common herb. Tipping 10% is customary in restaurants.…