Latin America is currently one of the trendiest food spots in the world. A combination of culturally diverse roots and an abundance of edible natural resources, coupled with a rise in new chefs bringing innovative techniques from culinary studies abroad has prompted a wave of unique flavours that you won’t find anywhere else. Not sure where to start? We bring you a rundown on this year’s hottest food spots in Latin America.
Oaxaca, Mexico
For years, Oaxaca has been jostling against Mexico City for culinary recognition, and is now finally nudging its way into the gastronomic spotlight. With rich, complex food combinations that are equally easy on the eye as they are on the palate, the food here includes tlayuda, crunchy tortillas with beans or mole with optional toppings and memelas, substantial corn tortillas with beans, cheese, and meat.
Mexico City, Mexico
Yet while Oaxaca has certainly been critically-acclaimed on the gastronomic scene, no-one is taking anything away from Mexico City. With everything from street food that’s been culturally recognised as part of the country’s UNESCO cultural heritage, through to Michelin star restaurants, foodies will be in their element here while browsing street corners and the high-end venues for some of the country’s best food. Look out for the multifaceted take on the humble taco and don’t miss the pambazos, a chilli-dipped bread.
Mendoza, Argentina
Buenos Aires is an established player in the Latin America realm of gastronomy, yet Argentina has so many other spots that are worthy of a mention on any foodie list – such as Mendoza. The Argentinian cuisine here is not to be sniffed at, with gems such as mouthwatering beef served with pools of chimichurri sauce, beef and chicken Milanesa as well as the famous empanadas, tamales, and gelatos that would make an Italian city proud, and of course, the wine. Mendoza is wine central of Latin America with its famous Malbec.
Santiago, Chile
The culinary fusion of Spanish and indigenous flavours, coupled with some of the best wine in the world, makes Santiago a hotspot for any foodie travelling in Latin America. From aijaco (a type of Chilean stew) to beef rib empanadas and pastel de choclo (a pie with corn, egg, olives and ground beef or chicken), all tastes and preferences are catered for in Santiago. Yet while the restaurants serve up gourmet and sophisticated options, the real joy is in browsing Mercado Central, an Art Nouveau market that has a ton of fresh and delicious seafood, or roaming around the stalls of La Vega market replete with exotic fruits and vegetables.
Source: theculturetrip.com
