South America is a land of vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and, most importantly, a foodie paradise waiting to be explored. If you are a foodie then we recommend you consider adding these cities to your itinerary.
From the zesty flavors of ceviche in Lima to the hearty feijoada in Sao Paulo, these gems are filled with mouth-watering cuisine that will gratify your tastebuds! Here are our top 7 foodie destinations in South America;
Lima, Peru
Lima isn’t just a city to visit; it’s a culinary pilgrimage. While the beloved ceviche reigns supreme in Lima’s culinary landscape—a symphony of raw fish delicately cooked in zesty lemon juice, adorned with onions, chili, cilantro, and corn, served alongside sweet potato—there’s a plethora of other tantalizing dishes awaiting discovery.
Whether it’s the creamy comfort of ají de gallina, the savory skewers of anticuchos, the sizzling stir-fry of lomo saltado, or the irresistible sweetness of picarones, Lima’s culinary offerings promise to delight even the most discerning palates.
And of course, a sip of chicha, Peru’s traditional fermented beverage, is the perfect way to wash it all down. So, venture beyond the cevicherias and immerse yourself in the diverse flavors of Lima’s culinary tapestry—it’s a gastronomic adventure you won’t soon forget.
Cusco, Peru
After tasting the wonders Lima has to offer, you cannot leave Peru without stopping by Cusco. You must try out their choclo con queso (corn with cheese). Unlike in Europe or the US, Peruvian corn is bigger and with a milky. Combined with the regional cheese you will fall in love with this dish.
The delicacy is quite common at Mercados where you will also find many other Peruvian foods and snacks. Cusco also offers a diverse array of culinary delights such as Chiri Uchu, a traditional dish featuring various meats served cold with a spicy sauce, and Pan dulce, sweet bread perfect for breakfast or a midday snack.
For the more adventurous eater, Cusco also boasts specialties such as Cuy al horno, roasted guinea pig, and Chicharrón, a crispy fried pork belly that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of the city or wandering through the bustling markets, dining in Cusco is an experience not to be missed.
São Paulo, Brazil
Brazil seems to have it all, from gorgeous rainforests to beautiful beaches, but it’s the delicious food that truly steals the show. Dining in São Paulo, Brazil is an experience like no other, where the city’s vibrant culture and rich culinary heritage converge to create an unforgettable gastronomic journey.
We strongly recommend you try the feijoada, a hearty stew made with black beans, rice, tender pork, and a medley of spices that will warm your soul. And don’t forget to indulge in pão de queijo, small bread-balls filled with gooey cheese that are utterly addictive.
For those with a sweet tooth, brigadeiros are an absolute must-try, boasting rich, chocolatey goodness in every bite. Whether you’re savoring a comforting bowl of picadinho de carne or indulging in the savory delights of acarajé, São Paulo offers a culinary experience that is sure to leave you craving more.
Santiago, Chile
Dining in Santiago is a sensory delight for any food enthusiast, especially for those who love wine. As the capital of Chile, Santiago has a vibrant culinary scene where traditional dishes are elevated to new heights. For wine lovers, the city offers an unparalleled experience with its exquisite selection of local varietals.
Beyond the wine, Santiago’s cuisine shines with its diverse array of flavors and influences. Indulge in tantalizing versions of ceviche and empanadas, with a unique twist like nowhere on the continent. Also sample local favorites like pastel de choclo, a savory corn pie bursting with flavor, and empanadas filled with a variety of savory fillings.
From hearty cazuela and sizzling asado to comforting sopaipilla, Santiago’s culinary offerings are a true reflection of the country’s rich cultural heritage, and every dish is a celebration of Chilean gastronomy at its finest.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Dining in Buenos Aires is a meat lover’s dream come true. Argentina’s capital offers some of the finest steaks on the planet. Argentinians take pride in their mastery of grilling, and a taste of their renowned asado Argentino will surely leave you licking your fingers.
Vegetarians are also catered to. If you have a sweet tooth we recommend alfajores filled with dulce de leche. These delectable cookies, some coated in chocolate, are a must-try treat that captures the essence of Argentine sweetness. Whether you’re sinking your teeth into juicy grilled meats or indulging in these heavenly sweets, Buenos Aires offers a culinary experience that will leave you longing for more.
Bogota, Colombia
Dining in Bogota is a vibrant and flavorful experience that perfectly encapsulates the essence of this colorful country. Colombia is renowned for its delicious dishes and unique flavors, and Bogota is often the highlight. From the moment you sit down to your first meal, you’ll be greeted with amazing vibes and surrounded by gorgeous nature.
A must-try dish is Ajiaco, a hearty soup bursting with flavor, made from chicken, corn, potatoes, and herbs. This traditional Colombian dish is a true culinary delight and is sure to leave you craving more.
Other foods not to miss while in Bogota include Fritanga Bogotana, a mouthwatering platter of grilled meats and sausages, Changua, a comforting egg and milk soup, and Merengones, sweet meringue treats that are the perfect way to end your meal on a sweet note. Dining in Bogota is an unforgettable experience that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting to come back for more.
Quito, Ecuador
Ecuador is a stunning culinary destination that we simply couldn’t keep off our list. While many focus primarily on exploring the natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands, Quito’s culinary scene is a worthy alternative.
For seafood enthusiasts, Quito offers tantalizing dishes, with the Encocado de camarones standing out as a must-try on your visit. This creamy coconut shrimp stew showcases the region’s fresh seafood in a rich and flavorful sauce.
No visit to Quito would be complete without sampling the local specialties like Hornado, succulent roasted pork, Llapingachos, cheesy potato patties, and Fritada, a savory fried pork dish. With its diverse and delicious offerings, Quito promises to delight the taste buds of even the most discerning food lovers.
Bon Appétit Folks
So there you have it, folks – a whirlwind tour of South America’s culinary cornucopia. From the fiery flavors of Argentina to the tropical delights of Colombia, this continent offers a feast for the senses that is sure to leave you craving more.
