There is a lot to be said about Chile's culture and tourist attractions, but it doesn't stop there. Get ready for an expedition of gastronomical proportions! Here are some of my favorite spots:
1. Las Vacas Gordas - Steakhouse
Located in the heart of Santiago, this restaurant is the place to be if you're looking to fill up with steaks, chicken, pork and vegetable dishes. Diners can enjoy watching their choice of meals being grilled in front of them, right next to the dining area, before being catered to them by old-school cart service.
2. Emporio La Rosa - Ice Cream Parlor
If you're looking for just a traditional ice cream joint, you better reassemble your expectations. This Emporio is nothing but ordinary - from choco-chili concoctions to rose petal mixes - when it comes to handmade, extra thick and extra creamy ice cream. Can't choose from the wide array of options? The top two favorites are squishy focaccia sandwiches and flaky pains-au-chocolat, offerings which make both locals and tourists keep coming back for more.
3. Astrid y Gastón - Peruvian Restaurant
Peruvian haute cuisine doesn't come any better than this. Astrid y Gastón changes its menu according to the current season, making it one of the city's top restaurants to check out because of its fine ingredients. Take a bite on suckling pig offerings (cochinillo), conventional ceviches, fish stews and many more.
4. Pasta e Vino - International Cuisine
Diners have come and gone and then come back to Pasta e Vino, most probably because of its inventive (literally) daily pasta offerings (which diners can watch as the chefs get to work). There are classic offerings, but there are also days of the most unusual combinations (think: duck with plum, bean with orange, etc.) depending on your luck.
5. Ocean Pacific's - Seafood Restaurant
Get ready for fish tanks and brass-rimmed portholes and gigantic whale skeletons once you set foot here. It's not just about delectable seafood dishes, it's about the whole experience as well. The servings are usually massive, but the flavors are also a force to be reckoned with.
6. Bravissimo Gelateria - Ice Cream Parlor
Another ice cream joint that deserves to be mentioned is Bravissimo Gelateria. If you're only in town for a few days (or hours), be sure not to miss it. This popular establishment has the most colorful signs and ice cream flavors that you'll ever need on a hot day.
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