Puerto Natales, the charming coastal town in Chile, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and foodies alike. As the gateway to Torres del Paine National Park, this picturesque town attracts visitors from around the world, all of whom need to refuel and recharge after a day of exploring. When it comes to dining, Puerto Natales offers a surprising array of options, from traditional Chilean cuisine to international flavors and seafood delicacies.
Get ultimate traveler plannerOverview of Puerto Natales’ Culinary Scene
From humble beginnings as a small fishing village, Puerto Natales has evolved into a thriving tourist hub, with a culinary scene that reflects its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural surroundings. The town’s restaurants, cafes, and food markets cater to diverse tastes and budgets, ensuring that every visitor can find something to satisfy their cravings.
What to Expect
In this guide, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Puerto Natales, highlighting the top restaurants, cafes, and eateries that showcase the region’s unique flavors and ingredients. From hearty Patagonian stews to fresh seafood, and from cozy cafes to scenic restaurants with breathtaking views, we’ll reveal the best places to eat in Puerto Natales.
Whether you’re a food enthusiast, an adventure-seeker, or simply looking for a delicious meal after a long day of exploring, this guide will help you navigate the town’s culinary landscape and discover the hidden gems that make Puerto Natales a must-visit destination for any traveler.
Where to Eat in Puerto Natales: A Foodie’s Guide
Puerto Natales, a charming coastal town in Chilean Patagonia, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and foodies alike. After a day of hiking, kayaking, or exploring the stunning landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park, you’ll want to refuel with a delicious meal. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the best restaurants, cafes, and eateries in Puerto Natales, highlighting the top spots to satisfy your cravings.
Traditional Chilean Cuisine
Chilean cuisine is a fusion of indigenous, Spanish, Italian, and German influences, resulting in a unique flavor profile that’s both familiar and exotic. In Puerto Natales, you’ll find plenty of restaurants serving traditional dishes that showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Donde Eladio
Located in the heart of Puerto Natales, Donde Eladio is a cozy, family-run restaurant that serves authentic Chilean cuisine. Their menu features an array of traditional dishes, including:
- Pastel de choclo: a savory corn pie filled with beef, onions, and choclo (a type of corn)
- Chupe de mariscos: a hearty seafood stew made with mussels, clams, and scallops
- Cazuela: a comforting beef stew served with crusty bread
Don’t miss their daily lunch specials, which offer excellent value for money. Be sure to try their homemade bread and desserts, like the decadent tres leches cake.
La Casa de los Abuelos
This charming restaurant is set in a beautifully restored old house, offering a warm and intimate atmosphere. La Casa de los Abuelos specializes in traditional Chilean cuisine, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and family recipes. Be sure to try their:
- Chilenito: a tender and flavorful beef dish served with mashed potatoes and vegetables
- Arrollado: a classic Chilean dish made with rolled pork, served with rice, beans, and salad
Don’t forget to leave room for dessert – their flan de leche is a must-try!
Seafood Delights
Puerto Natales is situated on the shores of the Ultima Esperanza Sound, providing an abundance of fresh seafood. Take advantage of the region’s bounty at these top seafood restaurants: (See Also: Where To Eat In Sonoma)
El Chileno
Located on the waterfront, El Chileno offers stunning views of the sound and a menu that showcases the freshest seafood in town. Try their:
- Fresh seafood platter: a selection of raw and cooked seafood, including oysters, mussels, and king crab
- Grilled salmon: served with a side of garlic butter and herbs
- Seafood risotto: a creamy and flavorful dish made with mussels, clams, and scallops
Don’t miss their daily happy hour, featuring discounts on drinks and appetizers.
La Marinería
This nautical-themed restaurant is a local favorite, serving up a wide variety of seafood dishes. Be sure to try their:
- King crab: served steamed with butter and lemon
- Seafood paella: a flavorful and filling dish made with mussels, clams, and chorizo
- Fish and chips: crispy battered fish served with tartar sauce and fries
La Marinería also offers a daily lunch special, which includes a main course, side dish, and drink.
Cafes and Bakeries
After a morning of exploring, refuel with a warm cup of coffee and a sweet treat at one of Puerto Natales’ cozy cafes or bakeries:
Café Rostro
This charming cafe is a local institution, serving up expertly brewed coffee and delicious pastries. Try their:
- Café con leche: a rich and creamy coffee made with locally sourced milk
- Torta de mil hojas: a flaky and buttery pastry filled with dulce de leche
- Empanadas: savory pastries filled with beef, chicken, or cheese
Café Rostro also offers a selection of sandwiches, salads, and light meals.
Panadería y Pastelería Eladio
This family-run bakery has been a Puerto Natales staple for over 20 years, offering a wide variety of freshly baked bread, pastries, and cakes. Be sure to try their:
- Freshly baked bread: crusty baguettes, ciabatta, and more
- Croissants: flaky and buttery, perfect for breakfast or as a snack
- Tortas: moist and flavorful cakes made with locally sourced ingredients
Panadería y Pastelería Eladio also offers a selection of sandwiches, salads, and light meals.
International Cuisine
While traditional Chilean cuisine is a highlight of Puerto Natales, the town also offers a range of international restaurants catering to diverse tastes: (See Also: Where To Eat In Sevierville Tn)
La Estancia
This rustic-chic restaurant serves up Argentine-inspired cuisine, including:
- Asado: a traditional Argentine BBQ featuring grilled meats and sausages
- Empanadas: savory pastries filled with beef, chicken, or cheese
- Choripán: a classic Argentine street food made with grilled sausage and chimichurri sauce
La Estancia also offers a selection of Argentine wines and craft beers.
Weskar Patagonia
This modern restaurant serves up innovative, globally-inspired dishes using locally sourced ingredients. Be sure to try their:
- Grilled lamb chops: served with a side of roasted vegetables and quinoa
- Pan-seared salmon: served with a citrus-herb sauce and sautéed spinach
- Veggie burger: a flavorful and filling option made with locally sourced ingredients
Weskar Patagonia also offers a selection of craft cocktails and artisanal beers.
Food Trucks and Markets
For a quick and delicious bite on-the-go, head to one of Puerto Natales’ food trucks or markets:
Food Truck El Fuego
This popular food truck serves up tasty and affordable street food, including:
- Choripán: a classic Argentine street food made with grilled sausage and chimichurri sauce
- Empanadas: savory pastries filled with beef, chicken, or cheese
- Chilenito: a flavorful beef dish served with mashed potatoes and vegetables
Food Truck El Fuego is located in the town center and is open daily from 12 pm to 10 pm.
Mercado de Abasto
This bustling market offers a range of fresh produce, meats, and seafood, as well as prepared foods and snacks. Be sure to try:
- Fresh fruit and vegetables: locally sourced and in season
- Artisanal cheeses and breads: perfect for a picnic or snack
- Chilenito sandwiches: flavorful beef sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients
Mercado de Abasto is open daily from 8 am to 6 pm.
Recap: Where to Eat in Puerto Natales
In this article, we’ve explored the best restaurants, cafes, and eateries in Puerto Natales, highlighting the top spots to satisfy your cravings. From traditional Chilean cuisine to seafood delights, international flavors, and street food, Puerto Natales has something for every palate and budget. (See Also: Where To Eat In Mcminnville Oregon)
Remember to try:
- Donde Eladio for traditional Chilean cuisine
- El Chileno for fresh seafood
- Café Rostro for expertly brewed coffee and pastries
- La Estancia for Argentine-inspired cuisine
- Food Truck El Fuego for quick and delicious street food
- Mercado de Abasto for fresh produce and artisanal goods
With this guide, you’ll be well on your way to discovering the flavors and culinary delights of Puerto Natales. ¡Buen provecho!
Frequently Asked Questions: Where to Eat in Puerto Natales
What are the must-try dishes in Puerto Natales?
In Puerto Natales, you should definitely try the traditional Patagonian dishes such as King Crab, Centolla (a type of crab), and Chupe de Mariscos (a hearty seafood stew). Don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of Chilean wine or a local craft beer.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan options in Puerto Natales?
Yes, Puerto Natales has several restaurants that cater to vegetarians and vegans. Some popular options include Cafe Kaiken, which serves delicious vegetarian and vegan breakfast options, and Restaurant Vinnhaus, which offers a separate vegetarian menu. Be sure to ask your server for options or recommendations.
What is the best place to try traditional Chilean cuisine in Puerto Natales?
For an authentic Chilean dining experience, head to Restaurant El Chileno. This cozy restaurant serves up traditional dishes such as Pastel de Choclo (a savory corn pie) and Choripan (grilled sausage sandwich). The friendly staff and rustic decor add to the charm.
Can I find seafood restaurants near the waterfront in Puerto Natales?
Absolutely! Puerto Natales has several seafood restaurants located along the waterfront, offering stunning views of the Ultima Esperanza Sound. Some popular options include Restaurant El Pangal and La Casa de los Abuelos, which serve fresh seafood dishes such as grilled fish and shellfish.
Are there any budget-friendly dining options in Puerto Natales?
Yes, Puerto Natales has several budget-friendly dining options. Try the local markets or food trucks, which offer affordable and delicious options such as empanadas, churros, and sandwiches. You can also look for set lunch menus or early bird specials at restaurants, which can be a great value.
