Quick answer
For an unforgettable introduction to authentic Chilean flavors and a classic empanada experience, Liguria offers a perfect blend of tradition, atmosphere, and exquisite local fare.
- Best overall
- Liguria
- Best budget
- Los Castaños
- Best experience
- Galindo
- Last verified
- 2026-03
How we picked these
Our selection for Santiago's best empanadas and Chilean food is based on extensive local research, diner reviews, culinary expert recommendations, and on-the-ground visits. We prioritize authenticity, quality ingredients, value, and the overall dining experience, ensuring a diverse range of options from iconic institutions to hidden local gems.
Liguria
Liguria is a Santiago institution, famed for its lively atmosphere, historic decor, and robust Chilean cuisine. With multiple locations, each offers a unique charm while serving up reliably delicious traditional dishes and a fantastic wine list. It's perfect for experiencing the local culture and enjoying hearty meals in a vibrant setting.
🍽️ What to order
Plateada con Puré Picante (Braised Beef with Spicy Mashed Potatoes), Machas a la Parmesana, and their classic Pisco Sour.
💡 Insider tip
The Providencia location on Av. Pedro de Valdivia often has live music. It gets very busy, so consider going for a late lunch or an early dinner to avoid peak crowds, or be prepared to wait for a table.
"Liguria is my absolute go-to for Chilean food in Santiago. Their Plateada is heavenly, and the atmosphere is just classic, can't beat it."— r/travel user
Galindo
Nestled in the bohemian heart of Bellavista, Galindo offers authentic, no-frills Chilean home cooking in a cozy, unpretentious setting. It's renowned for generous portions of traditional dishes like pastel de choclo and cazuela, attracting both locals and tourists seeking a true taste of Chile. The patio is particularly charming.
🍽️ What to order
Pastel de Choclo (Corn Pie), Lomo a lo Pobre (Steak with Fries, Onion, and Fried Eggs), or Cazuela.
💡 Insider tip
This place is incredibly popular. Expect a wait during lunch and dinner rushes, especially on weekends. Their Pisco Sour is strong and delicious, a great accompaniment to any meal.
"You HAVE to try the Pastel de Choclo at Galindo. It's the best I had in Santiago, just like abuela used to make. Worth the wait!"— r/food user
La Miga
La Miga is celebrated for its diverse and high-quality empanadas, offering a modern take on this Chilean staple. Their fillings range from traditional pino (beef, onion, olive, egg) to gourmet options, all encased in perfectly baked or fried dough. It's a fantastic spot for a quick, delicious, and satisfying snack or a light meal.
🍽️ What to order
Empanada de Pino al Horno (Baked Beef Empanada) and their Empanada de Camarón Queso (Shrimp and Cheese).
💡 Insider tip
They offer both baked (al horno) and fried (fritas) options. Try one of each to compare! The dough is consistently excellent, light, and flavorful.
"If you're looking for empanadas, La Miga is a solid choice. Their pino is perfectly seasoned, and the dough is just right, not too heavy."— r/Santiago user
Fuente Alemana
Fuente Alemana is a legendary 'fuente de soda' (soda fountain/deli) known for its enormous, iconic Chilean sandwiches. While not an empanada specialist, it represents a crucial part of Santiago's fast-casual culinary scene. The bustling counter service and classic preparations make it a unique and essential stop for hearty, authentic fare.
🍽️ What to order
Lomito Italiano (Pork with Avocado, Tomato, and Mayonnaise) or the Rumano (Grilled Steak).
💡 Insider tip
Grab a seat at the U-shaped counter for the full, immersive experience. Watch the skilled staff assemble your sandwich right in front of you. Be ready for a potentially long line, but it moves quickly.
"Okay, Fuente Alemana is a must-do. Their lomito is epic. Seriously, come hungry, those sandwiches are massive and so good."— r/travel user
Bar Nacional
Bar Nacional is a time capsule, offering a glimpse into Santiago's past with its vintage decor and traditional menu. It serves classic Chilean dishes in a bustling, old-school environment, popular with businesspeople and locals. It's a reliable choice for hearty, authentic food in the city center.
🍽️ What to order
Arrollado Huaso (Pork Roll), Cazuela de Vacuno (Beef Stew), or a Plateada.
💡 Insider tip
This is a great spot for lunch when exploring downtown Santiago. The service is fast and efficient, catering to a busy crowd. Don't miss their fresh bread rolls.
"For a real traditional Chilean lunch, Bar Nacional is solid. It's no-frills, just good, honest food and that old-school vibe."— r/Santiago user
Los Castaños
Los Castaños is a widely recognized chain known for its consistent quality and variety of empanadas, as well as other pastries and Chilean snacks. It's a reliable choice for a quick, affordable, and tasty empanada experience, perfect for a grab-and-go meal or a casual sit-down. You'll find them almost everywhere in Santiago.
🍽️ What to order
Empanada de Pino (Baked Beef Empanada) or the Empanada de Queso (Cheese Empanada).
💡 Insider tip
They also have excellent juices and pastries. It's a great place to pick up empanadas for a picnic or a quick snack while sightseeing. Most locations have a small seating area.
"If you need a quick, cheap, and consistently good empanada, Los Castaños always delivers. Their pino is classic and reliable."— r/Chile user
El Empanadero
El Empanadero elevates the humble empanada to an art form, offering gourmet fillings and a refined baking process. Located in the upscale Vitacura neighborhood, it's perfect for those seeking high-quality ingredients and creative flavor combinations. They focus on delivery and takeout, making it ideal for enjoying excellent empanadas at home or on the go.
🍽️ What to order
Empanada de Pino Premium, Empanada de Cebolla Caramelizada y Queso de Cabra (Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese).
💡 Insider tip
They are known for their fresh, innovative fillings. While a bit pricier, the quality is evident. Check their website for daily specials or seasonal offerings.
"El Empanadero has some seriously next-level empanadas. A bit pricy but worth it for the gourmet fillings, especially the goat cheese one."— r/food user
Las Hermanas
Las Hermanas is a local favorite in Las Condes, cherished for its homemade-style empanadas and friendly, family-run atmosphere. Their empanadas are known for having a generous amount of filling and perfectly crispy, golden crusts. It's a true neighborhood gem for an authentic, unpretentious empanada experience.
🍽️ What to order
Empanada de Pino Frita (Fried Beef Empanada) and Empanada de Pollo Queso (Chicken and Cheese).
💡 Insider tip
Their fried empanadas are particularly popular for their crispiness without being greasy. It's a small place, so it's best for takeout or a quick stand-up bite.
"If you're in Las Condes, Las Hermanas makes some of the best fried empanadas. So fresh and packed with flavor, just like my grandma made."— r/Chile user
Dónde Augusta (Mercado Central)
Inside Santiago's bustling Mercado Central, Dónde Augusta is a legendary stall famous for its fresh seafood empanadas. It offers a truly authentic market experience, with the vibrant sounds and smells of the market all around you. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to try some of the best seafood empanadas in the city.
🍽️ What to order
Empanada de Mariscos (Mixed Seafood Empanada) or Empanada de Ostión Queso (Scallop and Cheese).
💡 Insider tip
Be prepared for a very lively and somewhat chaotic environment inside the market. Grab your empanada and find a spot to stand and eat, or take it to go. Pair it with a cold 'Austral' beer.
"Okay, the seafood empanadas at Dónde Augusta in Mercado Central are phenomenal. Absolutely fresh, perfect for a snack while exploring the market."— r/travel user
La Pica de Clinton
La Pica de Clinton is a true 'pica' – a local, unassuming spot serving incredibly authentic and delicious Chilean comfort food. Famous for its generous portions and hearty, home-style cooking, it offers a real taste of local life away from the main tourist paths. The owner is friendly and the atmosphere is welcoming.
🍽️ What to order
Cazuela de Ave (Chicken Stew), Porotos con Riendas (Beans with Noodles and Sausage), or Pastel de Papa (Potato Pie).
💡 Insider tip
This spot is a bit off the beaten path but worth the journey for an authentic experience. It's generally a lunch spot, popular with local workers. Don't expect fancy decor, just great food.
"For real Chilean comfort food, you HAVE to find La Pica de Clinton. Their cazuela is incredible and the portions are huge, super authentic."— r/Santiago user
Empanadas Paula
Empanadas Paula is a highly regarded local bakery in Ñuñoa, known for its consistent quality and a wide selection of freshly made empanadas. It’s a neighborhood staple where you can find perfectly balanced fillings and wonderfully flaky crusts, often still warm from the oven. It's an excellent stop for a genuine taste of Santiago's empanada culture.
🍽️ What to order
Empanada de Pino (Beef and Onion), Empanada de Queso Champiñón (Cheese and Mushroom).
💡 Insider tip
Go early in the day for the freshest selection, especially on weekends. They also offer some sweet pastries if you're looking for a dessert after your savory empanada.
"Seriously good empanadas at Empanadas Paula in Ñuñoa. Their pino is spot on, and the dough is so light. A true local gem."— r/Chile user
Ana María
Located in the historic Barrio Brasil, Ana María offers a charming, rustic setting to enjoy classic Chilean dishes. It’s a beloved local restaurant known for its generous, home-style portions and warm atmosphere, making it a perfect stop after exploring the beautiful architecture of the surrounding neighborhood. Expect traditional recipes executed flawlessly.
🍽️ What to order
Pescado Frito con Ensalada Chilena (Fried Fish with Chilean Salad) or Carbonada (Hearty Vegetable and Meat Soup).
💡 Insider tip
Barrio Brasil is lovely for a walk before or after your meal. Ana María is particularly popular for lunch, offering excellent value on their daily specials (menú del día).
"Ana María in Barrio Brasil is fantastic for a traditional Chilean lunch. Everything feels homemade, and the fish is always perfectly cooked."— r/Santiago user
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is an empanada and what are the most common fillings in Santiago?
An empanada is a baked or fried pastry turnover, often filled with savory ingredients. In Santiago, the most iconic filling is 'pino,' a mixture of ground or diced beef, onions, hard-boiled egg, and olives. Other popular fillings include 'queso' (cheese), 'queso camarón' (shrimp and cheese), and 'napolitana' (ham, cheese, tomato).
What are some must-try traditional Chilean dishes in Santiago?
Beyond empanadas, you must try 'pastel de choclo,' a savory corn pie typically filled with pino, chicken, and sometimes olives. 'Cazuela' is a hearty soup with meat, potato, corn, and other vegetables. 'Lomo a lo Pobre' is another classic, featuring a generous piece of steak, French fries, fried onions, and one or two fried eggs.
How much do empanadas typically cost in Santiago?
The price of an empanada in Santiago varies depending on the size, filling, and location. Generally, you can expect to pay between CLP 2,000 and CLP 4,000 ($2.20 - $4.40 USD) for a good quality empanada. Gourmet or seafood empanadas might be slightly more expensive, ranging up to CLP 5,000 ($5.50 USD).
Are there vegetarian or vegan empanada options in Santiago?
While traditional empanadas are meat or cheese-based, many bakeries and restaurants now offer vegetarian options. Common vegetarian fillings include 'queso' (cheese), 'champiñón queso' (mushroom and cheese), or 'verduras' (mixed vegetables). Vegan empanadas are less common but can be found in more modern or health-conscious eateries.
What's the best way to experience Santiago's food scene beyond empanadas?
To truly experience Santiago's food scene, visit local markets like Mercado Central for fresh seafood or La Vega Central for produce and vibrant atmosphere. Explore neighborhood 'picás' (local eateries) for authentic, home-style Chilean cooking, and don't miss out on trying local wines from the central valley or a traditional Pisco Sour cocktail.
What's the difference between a baked (al horno) and fried (frita) empanada?
The primary difference lies in their preparation and texture. Baked empanadas (al horno) have a softer, bread-like crust and are often considered healthier. Fried empanadas (frita) boast a crispy, golden-brown, and sometimes slightly bubbly crust. Both are delicious, and personal preference often dictates which one people prefer.
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