Santiago's new spots, worth exploring

If you find yourself wandering through Santiago's vibrant neighbourhoods, you'll stumble upon some fresh culinary delights that have recently opened their doors. Fogo de Chão, the internationally renowned Brazilian steakhouse, has made its debut in Santiago with not one but two locations. The first opened in January 2026, bringing its famed churrasco experience to the city. By April, a second branch was up and running in Providencia, offering residents and visitors a taste of premium cuts and a lively dining atmosphere.

For those seeking Asian flavours, KO Asian Kitchen has expanded its reach to La Dehesa, opening in late May 2026. Known for its modern take on Asian cuisine, KO blends traditional recipes with contemporary twists, all served in a sleek, minimalist setting. It's the perfect spot for anyone looking to explore beyond the typical sushi rolls and dive into a more diverse selection of Asian dishes.

In the heart of Barrio Italia, Gino Lautaro has set up shop as of mid-March 2026, specialising in authentic Italian pasta. This charming eatery embraces the spirit of Italy with handmade pasta dishes that promise to transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Rome. It's a cosy spot ideal for a leisurely meal with friends or family, away from the hustle and bustle.

Meanwhile, Oda in Barrio Lastarria, which opened in late August 2025, offers a fresh take on Chilean cuisine. This restaurant prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that are both innovative and rooted in tradition. Lastarria's artistic vibe complements Oda's culinary creativity, making it a must-visit for those eager to explore modern Chilean flavours.

These new openings reflect Santiago's dynamic culinary scene, where innovation meets tradition. Whether you're in the mood for a Brazilian feast, Asian fusion, Italian comfort food, or modern Chilean fare, there's a new spot waiting to be discovered. For more hidden gems, check out our guide to Hidden Santiago.

If you're on the lookout for a fresh café experience near Farellones, Ruhe Lodge Café & Brunch is the new spot to check out. Opened in late May 2026, this café is conveniently located on the road to Farellones, making it an easy stop for those heading to the mountains. The café is housed in a charming mountain lodge, offering a cozy retreat with a menu that marries comfort food with stunning views.

Ruhe Lodge is more than just a place to grab coffee; it's an invitation to relax and enjoy the serene mountain setting. Whether you're planning a day trip or a quick escape from the city, the café's location makes it an ideal pitstop. For those relying on public transport, reaching Farellones is straightforward, with regular buses from Santiago. Check out Getting Around Santiago for tips on navigating the city's transport options.

If you're planning a weekend adventure, make Ruhe Lodge part of your itinerary. It’s a perfect blend of convenience and tranquility, adding a unique touch to your mountain journey. For more weekend ideas, explore A Santiago Weekend, well spent to plan your next outing.

If you're looking for a wine experience that's both fresh and far from the typical tourist trails, Santiago has some new spots that might just become your next favourite haunt. One such place is The Loft, nestled in the MUT building, which opened its doors in mid-2026. This spot offers a chic atmosphere with a selection of local wines that are perfect for a relaxed evening. It's a place where you can unwind without the usual hustle and bustle of more crowded venues.

Another area worth exploring is Barrio Italia, known for its dynamic and ever-evolving scene. While it doesn't boast a specific new wine bar at the moment, the neighbourhood is ripe for discovery, with many places offering unique wine selections that reflect the local terroir. It's the kind of area where you might stumble upon a hidden gem, a place that feels personal and welcoming.

For those who prefer a more upscale yet intimate setting, Vitacura offers some sophisticated options. While these might not be brand new, the area is renowned for its refined wine bars that focus on quality over quantity, providing a curated experience for wine enthusiasts. These are the places where locals go to enjoy a good glass of wine without the touristy frills.

For more hidden spots and local favourites, check out our guide on Hidden Santiago to discover more off-the-beaten-path experiences.

If you're on the hunt for a work-friendly café in Santiago that isn't part of a global chain, you're in luck. The city has seen a slew of new openings that cater to remote workers looking for a unique space to set up shop.

In Barrio Italia, Café El Taller has become a favourite for those who want a creative workspace. With its industrial-chic decor and spacious seating, it offers an inspiring environment to get work done while sipping on their expertly brewed coffee.

Meanwhile, in the heart of Lastarria, Espacio Ñuñoa combines a quiet atmosphere with reliable Wi-Fi, making it ideal for focus sessions. This café is known for its locally sourced pastries and community vibe, perfect for those who want to feel a part of the local scene while working.

For those closer to Providencia, La Mesa de Vitacura offers a blend of modern design and comfort. With plenty of natural light and a menu that features both traditional and contemporary Chilean dishes, it's a place where you can easily transition from work to a casual meeting over lunch.

And let's not forget the newly inaugurated Starbucks Smart Lounge in downtown Santiago, opened in May 2026. While it may be a well-known name, this location is anything but typical. Designed with remote workers in mind, it offers a variety of seating options, charging stations, and even private meeting rooms.

For more on where to work in Santiago, including coworking spaces, check out our guide.

If you're wandering the vibrant streets of Santiago, particularly around the dynamic neighbourhoods like Barrio Italia or Lastarria, you might stumble upon a new gem: Neko San. Opened by chef Nicolás Tapia in mid-2026, this café and tetería is offering something beyond the usual bubble tea fare.

Neko San isn't your typical spot for a quick drink. It's a place where Nippon inspiration meets the warmth of Santiago's café culture. Imagine sipping on a carefully brewed matcha while enjoying a slice of mochi cake, all set against a backdrop that feels more like a serene Japanese garden than a bustling city café. The interiors are a blend of minimalist design with subtle nods to Japanese aesthetics, creating a space that's both calming and invigorating.

This café is quickly becoming a favourite for those who appreciate a well-curated experience. Whether it's the delicate balance of flavours in their tea selection or the thoughtful presentation of their sweet treats, Neko San is a refreshing departure from the bubble tea trend. If you're in Santiago and looking for a place that offers a unique blend of culture and flavour, Neko San is worth the visit.

If your taste buds are tingling for modern Chilean flavors, look no further than Oda in Barrio Lastarria. Opened in late August 2025, Oda is making waves with its creative take on Chilean cuisine. Nestled in one of Santiago's most vibrant cultural districts, it's a place where the traditional meets the contemporary, not just on the plate but in the ambiance too.

Barrio Lastarria is known for its artistic flair, and Oda fits right in with a setting that feels both intimate and lively. The menu is a celebration of local ingredients, reimagined in ways that respect their roots while pushing culinary boundaries. It's the kind of place where a meal feels like a conversation between the past and the present, all set against the backdrop of a district buzzing with energy.

In Santiago, the search for modern Chilean cuisine often leads to neighborhoods like Providencia or Ñuñoa, but the ever-dynamic Lastarria is proving to be a frontrunner. The area is a wellspring of cultural and culinary innovation, making it the perfect backdrop for Oda's inventive dishes.

For those keen to discover more hidden culinary gems in Santiago, take a look at our guide on Hidden Santiago. It's a treasure map for those who want to explore beyond the usual spots and find the city's best-kept secrets.