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The Santiago Guide
LOCALS GUIDE

Explore Santiago, like a local

Discover Santiago's hidden gems and local favourites, from bustling streets to quiet bars. This guide is for those seeking authentic experiences where locals truly spend their time.

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Local Guides

Santiago, Chile

Where do locals go in Santiago?

Locals in Santiago gravitate towards places like Pulpería Santa Elvira and Confitería Torres, where the city's authentic flavours and vibrant culture come alive. Whether it's an old favourite or a new opening, these spots capture the heart of Santiago's local scene.

Good to Know

What do locals do differently in Santiago?

Late-night snack
Chorrillana route
Weekends
Family gatherings
Dinner time
9 PM onwards
Morning routine
Café and stroll
Need Answers?

Frequently Asked Questions

If you're on the lookout for a fresh spot in Santiago, Pulpería Santa Elvira is the place to check out. Tucked away at Lincoyán 920 in Ñuñoa, this new pulpería is being whispered about as Vitacura's best-kept secret. It's a spot that promises something different and local, making it a must-visit for those who want to escape the usual tourist trail.

Getting There

Reaching Pulpería Santa Elvira is straightforward with Santiago's efficient public transport system:

  • By Metro: Take Line 6 to Ñuñoa station. From there, it's a short 10-minute walk to the pulpería.
  • By Bus: Bus routes 506 and 507 both have stops near Lincoyán, making it convenient if you're coming from different parts of the city.

Whether you're a curious visitor or a local looking for new haunts, Pulpería Santa Elvira offers a taste of Santiago's evolving culinary scene. For more recent additions to the city's vibrant landscape, keep an eye on the Just Opened in Santiago guide.

Pulpería Santa Elvira typically opens its doors around midday, offering a unique local experience. It's a great spot to try something different in Santiago.

Carrer Nou is easily accessible via the Santiago Metro. Take Line 1 to Baquedano Station and enjoy a short walk to this vibrant spot known for its ambiance and tapas.

Confitería Torres is perfect for a late afternoon visit. You can enjoy the historic atmosphere while trying their renowned Barros Luco sandwich.

Patronato is famous for its authentic street food culture. You’ll find everything from Korean grills to Arab pastries, capturing the diverse culinary spirit of Santiago.

For a late-night snack, the Chorrillana route is a local favourite. It's a cultural staple for those looking for a hearty meal after a night out.

Where do locals go in Santiago

When exploring Santiago, it's the local favourites that truly offer a taste of the city's soul. Pulpería Santa Elvira, tucked away on Lincoyán 920 in Ñuñoa, stands out as the best-kept secret of Vitacura. This pulpería is where you'll find something different, a spot that locals treasure for its unique offerings and welcoming vibe.

For a touch of history, head to Confitería Torres. Established in 1879, this is Chile's oldest restaurant and the birthplace of the original Barros Luco sandwich. Sitting in its historic booths, you can almost feel the stories that have unfolded over the years.

If you're in the mood for a more discreet yet rewarding dining experience, Salvador Cocina y Café offers a good-value lunch that locals swear by. It's the kind of place you stumble upon and immediately feel like you've uncovered a hidden gem.

Patronato is the go-to for street food culture, where Korean grills and Arab pastries reflect the diversity and vibrancy of Santiago's culinary scene. Here, you can experience the city through its flavours, a perfect spot for those who love to eat like a local.

These spots are more than just places to eat; they're a gateway into Santiago's cultural heart. Whether you're a curious visitor or a local looking for trustworthy recommendations, these favourites offer a genuine slice of the city's life.

Where can I find backstreet kitchens or quiet bars that locals really go to?

Tucked away in a former casona, Carrer Nou is the kind of place locals keep in their back pocket for a cozy, authentic night out. Known for its signature tortilla, this bar-tapas joint offers the kind of ambiance that makes you feel like you've stumbled onto a well-kept secret. The dimly lit corners and lively chatter create an atmosphere perfect for unwinding with a plate of tapas and a glass of wine.

For those who like their adventures served with a side of midnight indulgence, the Chorrillana route is your ticket. After a night out, locals flock here for a serving of chorrillanas, a dish that’s as much a part of Santiago’s late-night culture as the bars themselves. It’s a post-party pilgrimage that wraps up the night with sizzling fries, beef, and eggs.

These spots are more than just places to eat and drink; they're experiences that offer a genuine taste of local life. Whether it's the ambiance of Carrer Nou or the vibrant energy of the Chorrillana route, these hidden gems make you feel like you've earned a little street cred.

The entranve of Carrer Nou, a traditional building with a large tree
The entrance to Carrer Nou, a unique landmark locally

Are there secret spots for sunset or a late-night snack?

The Parque Forestal sculpture garden, tucked away from the bustling main strip, offers a serene escape at sunset. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sculptures cast long shadows and the golden light transforms the park into a tranquil retreat. It's a hidden gem especially in autumn when the colours are rich and the air is crisp.

For those who find themselves peckish after a sunset stroll, Santiago has its share of late-night snack spots that locals swear by. Dive into the bustling energy of Patronato, where Korean grills and Arab pastries keep the flavours fresh and varied. If you're after something more traditional, the chorrillana route offers a hearty late-night fix, a cultural ritual for many Santiaguinos after an evening out.

Whether you're soaking in the last rays at Parque Forestal or indulging in a post-sunset snack, Santiago's hidden spots keep the city's charm alive long after the sun sets.

Golden hour at Parque Forestal and the National Museum of Fine Arts
Golden hour at Parque Forestal and the National Museum of Fine Arts

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