When you find yourself ready to explore the vibrant world of Chilean cuisine, you’re in for a culinary adventure that blends indigenous Mapuche traditions with European influences. This guide will help you navigate Chilean restaurants and food culture with confidence.
Essential Phrases for Ordering
Start your dining experience with these key phrases:
- “Me gustaría…” (I would like…) – Your go-to phrase for ordering
- “¿Qué me recomienda?” (What do you recommend?) – Locals often have the best suggestions
- “¿Es picante?” (Is it spicy?) – Chilean food isn’t typically very spicy, but it’s good to check
- “La cuenta, por favor” (The bill, please) – Essential for ending your meal
- “¿Es del día?” (Is it today’s catch?) – Crucial when ordering seafood
Must-Try Chilean Dishes
Your Chilean dining experience isn’t complete without trying these classics:
Main Dishes
- Pastel de Choclo: A hearty corn pie filled with ground beef, chicken, olives, and eggs
- Curanto: A remarkable seafood stew traditionally prepared in an earth oven
- Cazuela: A nourishing soup with meat, corn, pumpkin, and potatoes
- Chorrillana: A mountain of french fries topped with eggs, meat, and caramelized onions
Seafood Specialties
- Congrio Frito: Fried conger eel, a local delicacy
- Machas a la Parmesana: Clams baked with parmesan cheese
- Ceviche: Fresh fish “cooked” in citrus juice
Street Food
- Completo: Chile’s answer to the hot dog, loaded with avocado, mayonnaise, and tomatoes
- Empanadas de Pino: Savory pastries filled with meat, onions, olives, and hard-boiled egg
Unique Chilean Dining Customs
Once
This evening meal tradition (pronounced ON-seh) is lighter than dinner and typically includes bread, avocado, cheese, and tea or coffee. Don’t be surprised if you’re invited for “once” around 6-8 PM.
Meal Times
- Desayuno (Breakfast): 7-9 AM
- Almuerzo (Lunch): 1-3 PM
- Once: 6-8 PM
- Cena (Dinner): 8-10 PM
Beverages Worth Trying
Alcoholic
- Pisco Sour: The national cocktail made with grape brandy
- Vino Tinto/Blanco: Chilean wines are world-renowned
- Terremoto: A potent mix of white wine, pineapple ice cream, and fernet
Non-Alcoholic
- Mote con Huesillo: A traditional summer drink with wheat and dried peaches
- Jugo Natural: Fresh-squeezed fruit juices
Dining Etiquette
Payment and Tipping
- A 10% tip is customary and often added automatically
- Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas
- Some restaurants include a “propina” (tip) in “la cuenta”
Customization
- “Al gusto” means you can customize to your taste
- “Sin…” means “without” (useful for dietary restrictions)
- “Con…” means “with” (for adding ingredients)
Remember, Chilean cuisine is about fresh ingredients, generous portions, and unhurried dining. Take time to savor your meal and enjoy the local dining culture.