Many food-loving travellers frequently ask, “What do Chileans eat anyway?”. This tour will take you to the source. First, set off to explore the labyrinth of stands at Santiago’s sprawling wholesale market which dates back to the late 1800s. A picturesque mishmash of stalls, vendors hawk the freshest seasonal fruits and vegetables, local cheeses, a plethora of meats, mounds of spices, and indigenous foodstuffs like pine nuts from the Araucaria tree or smoked (chili) merkén. Visit the fresh produce stands of our caseros, favorite vendors, and taste seasonal treats as we go. Given that Chileans are serious bread junkies, stop at the market’s old-school bakery to check out some of the country’s favorite varieties: crunchy handmade marraquetas and dimpled, buttery hallullas.
Meet your driver and head to a Santiaguino sandwich institution! Most locals would even say eating here is a birthright. A block from the Plaza Italia, for over fifty years this sandwich hub has been pumping out the best lomitos in town. The secret? Impeccable service by charming 30-year veteran waitresses plus a dynamo marinade for the pork, roasted and sliced paper-thin. Grab a stool by the U-shaped counter, order a schop (draft beer), and go for the classic italiano with tomato, homemade mayo and copious amounts of mashed avocado. There’s no way to overcome gravity with these 5-inch-high sandwiches. A knife and fork are indispensable.
Afterwards, stroll along the leafy promenade, Parque Forestal, the city’s beautiful central park, into the hip neighborhood of Lastarria surrounding the Museo de Bellas Artes, Fine Arts Museum. Work off your sandwich off by climbing the beautiful, manicured gardens of Santa Lucía hill, the site where colonial Santiago was founded in 1545. Wander to the top for an impressive, 360-degree view of the sprawling city below.
Explore this vibrant area with a short walk along the cobblestone streets and admire the stately European-style buildings from the early 20th century, the grand apartments, and majestic trees. Stop into an upscale handicrafts shop where all the products from hand-woven knits to Mapuche Indian jewellery are crafted by talented artisans throughout Chile, or other boutiques in the area. Continue your saunter through the neighborhood with a break to rest your feet at Santiago’s best-loved artisan ice cream parlor. Go local and order some of their seasonal classics like manjar (milk caramel), nutty lucuma (a local fruit), or dark chocolate with chilli and a heady espresso.
Before we part ways, visit our friend who has been making colonial-style sweets in Chile for over 50 years. Visit her pastry shop and let her share with you the secret of making perfect meringue—and sample her magic pastries. Return to your hotel in the mid-afternoon. Cheers to a delicious day!.
Includes:
• Private first-class transportation to/from hotel with professional driver
• English-speaking guide throughout duration of tour
• All snacks, tastings, and beverages (gratuity included)
