Santiago, Chile is a vibrant city of diverse cuisine, culture, and history. Delicious seafood delicacies abound, ready to transport seafood lovers to a flavor-filled paradise. In this article, we’ll explore the streets of Santiago to discover the best and most unique seafood dishes to tantalize your taste-buds. So let’s grab a bite, and dive into Santiago’s incredible seafood scene!
1. Exploring Santiago’s Seafood Scene
Santiago, the Chilean capital, has long been revered as a coastal paradise amidst the foothills of the Andes. From the vibrant markets of Valparaíso, to the cobblestone streets of Providencia and the serenity of Viña del Mar, a fresh and exciting seafood experience awaits. Let’s explore what Santiago has to offer for lovers of seafood!
La Vega Central
This bustling produce market is a popular stop for visitors and locals alike. It’s home to hundreds of stalls touting fresh-caught fish, crustaceans, and other delectable seafood specialties. Many of the vendors have been here for generations, so you can trust that the quality and variety are top-notch. Come early when the market opens in the morning to enjoy the best selection available.
Rustic Eateries
Santiago boasts some of the most traditional seafood spots in the country, where you can find classic dishes like Lenten broth and a variety of ceviches served alongside artisanal beer, local wines, and spirits. The focus is usually on the freshest catch, cooked simply to highlight the natural flavors and textures. Be sure to try the iconic stone crab.
Seafood Boils
Every weekend, you’ll find collected groups of friends and families congregating around big pots of boiling seafood. Here, you’ll find seafood of all sorts, including crab, lobster, prawns, clams, mussels, and squid, all cooked in a flavorful broth of herbs and spices. This is the perfect way to take in the vibrancy of Santiago while indulging in a balanced plate of seafood.
Pop-Up Fairs
Don’t be surprised to stumble upon an impromptu seafood fair while strolling Santiago’s streets. You may find oyster shucking stations, street vendors selling fried fish sandwiches, and a selection of seafood recipes all cooked in the traditional Chilean style. Stop and sample the delicacies, chat with the vendors, and take in the atmosphere of the city.
Markets Galore
With its moderate year-round climate, Santiago is a great place to shop for fresh seafood and locally-sourced produce. Not only can you walk the aisles of the larger supermarkets and specialty stores, but there are also weekend markets and food festivals where you can find fresh catches, sample seafood dishes, and occasionally stumble upon unique imported fruits and vegetables, as well as other goods.
Seafood Tours
If you’d like to learn more about Santiago’s seafood culture, there are a number of food tours you can take. From intimate experiences to larger group outings that crisscross through the city’s culinary landscapes, you’ll get an up-close view of Santiago’s abundant seafood offerings, including the freshest catches from the harbor and the city’s vibrant array of seafood dishes.
2. What to Expect from Santiago’s Street Seafood
Santiago is the perfect destination for seafood lovers. With the city’s expansive coast, vast marine life, and abundance of local fishermen making it easy to find seafood that’s fresh, it’s no wonder that the seafood scene in Santiago is thriving. The streets are aplenty with seafood delicacies that offer a unique and delicious experience that can’t be found elsewhere. Here is what you can expect to find when you explore Santiago’s seafood scene.
Cockles: Cockles are small, edible bivalves that can be steamed, grilled or fried. In Santiago, these are usually served with a freshly-made garlic and parsley sauce. The sauces alone are enough to make you forget about the city, and the intense flavors combined with the freshness of the cockles makes for an unforgettable experience.
Octopus: Octopus is a staple in Santiago’s seafood scene, with vendors offering grilled, boiled, and even dried versions of the popular cephalopod. Octopus is especially popular when served in a garlicky picadillo with potatoes and olive oil.
Mussels: Mussels are another common seafood in Santiago’s streets. These mollusks are usually boiled and served in a cioppino-style broth or a spicy tomato sauce. The broth is rich, flavorful, and full of other tasty ingredients and herbs that make it unbeatable.
Calamares: Calamares are battered and fried squid that are often served with freshly-made mayonnaise. This is a quick and delicious snack that’s great for a quick bite. The crunch of the batter gives way to the tenderness of the squid, and the cool mayonnaise adds a nice touch of creaminess.
Choritos: Choritos are small, pink mussels that are steamed and served with parsley and garlic. This popular seafood dish is often served as a traditional tapa in Santiago’s tapas bars, but can also be enjoyed in the streets.
Surimi: Surimi is a type of seafood paste made from various seafood and other ingredients. It is usually wrapped with nori and served with soy sauce and wasabi, though it can also be served with other accompaniments. This is a popular street food favorite in Santiago and can be found in seafood markets as well.
Pulpo a la Gallega: This classic Spanish dish consists of boiled octopus served with potatoes, paprika, and extra virgin olive oil. It is a very popular dish in Santiago, where the long-cooking octopus ensures a tender and flavorful final product.
Exploring Santiago’s seafood scene is a rewarding experience. No matter what you are looking for, you are sure to find something to make your taste buds tingle. So, get ready to explore the streets of Santiago and try some of these amazing seafood dishes.
3. Must-Try Street Delicacies in Santiago
When it comes to exploring Santiago’s mouth-watering seafood delicacies, it’s hard to go wrong. Whether picking up some fresh seafood from the local markets, to savoring traditional coastal dishes, everyone should take time to explore the various culinary gems and popular dishes Santiago has to offer.
- Empanadas: One of the most traditional Chilean street delicacies, the empanadas are a must. These doughy shells are filled with a delicious variety of fillings, from spicy beef to shrimp and corn. A favorite amongst the locals.
- Ceviche: Nowhere better in Santiago than to enjoy a platter of traditional ceviche. Prepared with fish and seafood, this marinated dish is a delicious combination of lime juice, red onion, and cilantro. Perfect for a light lunch or a snack on the go!
- Chorrillanas: For anyone who loves seafood and patacones, Santiago’s answer to a seafood casserole is the chorrillanas. With a variety of options, such as fish, calamari, and shrimp, this dish will make your taste buds sing.
For all the seafood lovers out there, from the heads of fish in the markets, to the endless array of dishes on the made-to-order menus in the restaurants Santiago will have you feeling full and satisfied. So head out on the streets and explore the city’s delicious seafood scene.
4. Where to Find the Best Street Seafood in Santiago
Santiago is known for its amazing seafood scene, and for good reason! From fish tacos to coastal-inspired ceviches, the city’s street food vendors have some seriously delicious dishes to offer. Here’s where to find the best seafood in Santiago:
1. La Chimba – This iconic Santiago spot is the perfect pit stop for an afternoon snack. It’s known for its freshly prepared fish tacos, loaded with crispy, fried fish, cabbage, and spicy mayo.
2. La Mariscada – Located in the trendy Barrio Bellavista neighborhood, La Mariscada serves up a variety of coastal dishes. Their specialty is ceviche, a classic South American dish that’s prepared with fresh fish, onion, chilli, and a splash of lime juice. It’s a must-try!
3. La Paradita – La Paradita is a bustling seafood stall that serves up traditional Chilean dishes. Their menu features items such as crab stew, stewed mussels, and fried calamari. They also do a great job of keeping the prices reasonable, so it’s an affordable option if you’re looking for a quick bite.
4. Chipe Libre – Chipe Libre is one of Santiago’s most popular places for seafood. It’s located in the Providencia neighborhood and offers a variety of seafood goodies, such as Chilean-style fish stew, smoked salmon with a side of potatoes, and classic fish and chips.
5. La Playa – La Playa is a lively outdoor spot that’s great for grabbing a bite to eat and meeting friends for a beer or two. They serve dishes such as fish tacos, shrimp empanadas, and fried calamari, all of which are sure to satisfy your seafood cravings.
5. An Insider’s Tips for Eating Street Seafood in Santiago
Seafood lovers everywhere will adore the street seafood options around Santiago. From fresh seafood chowder to crayfish tacos, the city provides a wide variety of delicacies for locals and travelers alike. Here are five insider tips for those looking to explore Santiago’s street seafood scene:
- Choose locals. While tourist areas are convenient, you’ll find the best street seafood at stalls owned and operated by locals. Make sure to ask which options are the freshest!
- Try the chorrillana. This is a very popular street food dish in Santiago made of french fries topped with eggs, sausages and other savory ingredients. It’s the perfect accompaniment to any seafood meal.
- Look for frutos do mar. If you’re in the mood for some traditional Chilean seafood, be sure to look for ‘frutos do mar’ options, which often include clams, mussels, and other shellfish.
- Don’t skip the sauces. Chileans love their fiery sauces and many of the seafood dishes will come with flavorful, savory sauces. Don’t skip a blast of heat and flavor by skimping on these flavorful accompaniments.
- Check the market. Head to any of the city’s bustling markets for some of the freshest seafood. Vendors often deal in locally caught options that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
No matter what your taste buds are craving, you’re sure to find a delicious street seafood option around Santiago. Keep these tips in mind as you explore the city’s offerings on your next visit!
6. A Guide to Differentiate Authentic Seafood from Fake
The seafood scene in Santiago is vibrant, providing a wide range of delicious dishes to enjoy. If you’re a seafood enthusiast, you should definitely check out the different street stalls and restaurants in the city for the most authentic experience. But how do you tell the fake from the truly authentic seafood dishes? Here are some tips for finding the real deal:
- Evaluate the price – Authentic seafood dishes usually have slightly higher prices than the average plate.
- Check for freshness – Are the ingredients on the plate fresh? Fresh seafood typically has a firm texture and is fragrant.
- Taste the sauces – The sauce used on the dish is a good indicator of authenticity. Authentic seafood sauces often contain garlic, lemon, and parsley.
- Examine the presentation – An authentic plate of seafood will have a more refined presentation.
Using these tips, you will have a better chance of finding the real deal in Santiago. But why not take your experience to another level by trying some of the local dishes? It doesn’t get more authentic than eating the regional delicacies. Local dishes such as ceviche, pastel de jaiba, pulpo asado, and arrollado de chancho will surely delight your taste buds. Ven a Santiago to enjoy the best the seafood scene has to offer and discover just how delicious Chilean seafood can be! Santiago offers an incredible range of street delicacies for seafood lovers. From downtown districts to suburban souks, each neighborhood has something delicious to tantalize your taste buds. So if you are visiting Santiago, make sure you save time to perfectly savor its seafood OR you will regret it.
Bon appétit!
