Top 5 Places to Eat in Chiloé Island

Written by David Garcia, Keith Roberts, Maria Gaulto
06/08/2025
Brightly colored palafitos can be seen around Chiloe.
Cplandco, Wikimedia Commons

Chiloé Island's dining scene offers a unique blend of traditional Chilote cuisine, characterized by abundant fresh seafood and indigenous ingredients, alongside contemporary culinary interpretations.

1. El Mercadito

Cuisine: Creative Chilote Cuisine

Situated in a charmingly restored house overlooking the waterfront in Castro's historic Pedro Montt barrio, El Mercadito presents a fresh, creative approach to traditional Chilote dishes. Expect exciting flavors such as the spicy conger eel stew, 'Mi Borrachito,' served with choritos and native fried potatoes, and 'Bombas de Jaiva,' a fried appetizer filled with traditional crab stew. The atmosphere is inviting, providing a delightful dining experience with a modern twist on local classics.

Price: CLP 20,000 - 40,000 / USD 20 - 40 per person

Getting There: Located on Pedro Montt 210 in Castro, it is easily accessible by walking from the city center.

2. Travesía

Cuisine: Modern Chilean and Chilote Cuisine

Co-owned by authors of an award-winning cookbook on Chiloé cuisine, Travesía offers an inventive and modern exploration of the island's flavors. The talented young chefs prepare dishes with unique twists, such as the standout 'chancho ahumado' (smoked pork), served with a delicate murta berry sauce and potatoes, highlighting the island's abundant potato varieties. The ambiance is refined, making it suitable for a special dining experience.

Price: CLP 35,000 - 60,000+ / USD 35 - 60+ per person

Getting There: Found on Eusebio Lillo 188 in Castro, it is within walking distance of many central accommodations.

3. Cocinerías de Dalcahue

Cuisine: Traditional Chilote Seafood and Empanadas

For an authentic, informal taste of Chiloé, the 'Cocinerías' (small eateries) in Dalcahue's market area are a must-visit. These humble establishments are renowned for freshly prepared empanadas with diverse fillings, including local seafood like clams and crab. It's a bustling, no-frills setting where you can enjoy hearty, home-style cooking, popular with both locals and visitors seeking genuine flavors at an affordable price.

Price: CLP 5,000 - 10,000 / USD 5 - 10 per person

Getting There: The Cocinerías are located near the Dalcahue market and ferry wharf, easily reached by local bus or taxi from Castro (approx. 20-30 minutes).

4. Sacho Restaurant

Cuisine: Traditional Chilote Seafood

Operating since the late 1970s, Sacho Restaurant remains a local favorite in Castro for its traditional Chilote seafood plates. Dishes like fresh fish, *curanto*, and 'chupe de jaiba' (crab stew) are prepared in classic styles. While there is a bay view, the primary draw is the authentic seafood, making it a reliable choice for those seeking the island's time-honored flavors in a friendly, unpretentious setting.

Price: CLP 15,000 - 30,000 / USD 15 - 30 per person

Getting There: Located in Castro, a short walk or taxi ride from the main waterfront area.

5. Restaurant La Corita

Cuisine: Traditional Chilean & Seafood, Empanadas

Located in Ancud, Restaurant La Corita is celebrated for its incredibly oversized and affordable empanadas, considered among the best on the island. This charming eatery offers a comprehensive menu of traditional Chilean cuisine, featuring an impressive selection of seafood dishes and generous salads. Portions are notably large, providing excellent value for those looking to indulge in local flavors in a casual setting.

Price: CLP 8,000 - 15,000 / USD 8 - 15 per person

Getting There: Situated next to the municipal market in Ancud, it is easily accessible by walking from the city center.

Check out our other pages on Chiloé Island

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