Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Concepción, Biobío, Chile

1. Cazuela Concepción

A hearty stew made with fish, seafood, potatoes, and corn, served in a large earthenware pot. Taste this traditional dish at El Cholero.

Local Ingredients: Uses fresh fish and seafood caught from Biobío river and the ocean.
Cultural Significance: Reflects the region's history of fishing and agricultural traditions.
Comfort Food: Ideal for a satisfying meal, especially on chilly days.

Corn-based casserole filled with chicken, olives, raisins, and onions, topped with a layer of ground beef. Try it at La Casa del Pastel de Choclo.

Regional Variation: Different from other regions' versions due to the use of corn instead of yuca.
Fusion Cuisine: Blends Spanish, indigenous Mapuche, and African influences.
Sweet and Savory Balance: Offers a unique mix of sweetness from raisins and a savory flavor from the meat.

Thin, crispy pancakes made with shrimp, onions, and coriander. Savor them at La Marisquera El Tío Pollo.

Seafood Specialty: An iconic shrimp dish popular in Concepción's seafood restaurants.
Quick Snack: Perfect for a light meal or as an appetizer before a heavier dish.
Traditional Preparation: Made using the same recipe for generations, showcasing local culinary techniques.

Meat-filled pastries with a unique twist: a dough made from cornmeal instead of wheat. Find them at La Casa de la Empanada.

Corn Dough: Makes the empanadas lighter and easier to digest.
Street Food: Perfect for a quick, on-the-go meal while exploring Concepción.
Variety of Fillings: Available with different fillings like beef, chicken, seafood, or cheese.

A slow-cooked lamb stew made with potatoes, corn, and onions. Enjoy this dish at El Quitral.

Slow Cooking Technique: The slow cooking process infuses the flavors for a rich taste.
Regional Lamb: Uses locally-raised lamb, adding authenticity to the dish.
Comfort Food: Ideal for a warm and comforting meal.

A spicy shrimp stew made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and red pepper. Try it at La Marisquera Los Cangrejos.

Spiciness Level: Adjustable spiciness level for those who prefer mild or hot dishes.
Seafood Specialty: Another iconic shrimp dish popular in Concepción's seafood restaurants.
Comfort Food: Ideal for a satisfying meal, especially on chilly days.

A creamy seafood soup made with fish, shrimp, scallops, and corn. Enjoy it at La Casa del Marisco.

Seafood Specialty: Another popular seafood dish in Concepción's restaurants.
Creamy Texture: The creamy texture and rich flavor make it a comforting choice.
Variety of Seafood: Uses a mix of fish, shrimp, scallops, and other local seafood.

A whole pig roasted on a spit over open fire. Taste it at El Cholero.

Culinary Spectacle: A unique dining experience as the pig is cooked in front of you.
Regional Specialty: Typical dish from Concepción and Biobío Region.
Hearty Meal: Perfect for larger groups or those with a big appetite.

Hake fish cooked in a green sauce made from coriander, parsley, and olives. Find it at La Marisquera El Tío Pollo.

Seafood Specialty: Another popular seafood dish in Concepción's restaurants.
Green Sauce: The bright green sauce gives the dish an appealing appearance.
Light Meal Option: A healthier choice compared to other hearty dishes.

A creamy corn porridge made with milk, sugar, and cinnamon. Try it at La Casa del Pastel de Choclo.

Sweet Dish: Perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
Comfort Food: Ideal for a warming dessert or breakfast.
Traditional Preparation: Made using the same recipe for generations, showcasing local culinary techniques.

A sweet pastry filled with quince paste and cheese. Find it at La Casa del Pastel de Choclo.

Sweet Dish: Perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
Regional Fruit: Uses locally-grown quince paste, giving it an authentic taste.
Comfort Food: Ideal for a warming dessert or breakfast.

A refreshing cocktail made with pineapple juice, gin, and sugar. Try it at El Cholero.

A sweet apple beverage made by fermenting apples. Find it at El Cholero.

A sweet corn porridge served with dried peaches and raisins. Try it at El Cholero.

Sweet Dish: Perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
Comfort Food: Ideal for a warming dessert or breakfast.
Traditional Preparation: Made using the same recipe for generations, showcasing local culinary techniques.

A thick shake made with pineapple ice cream, grenadine, and brown wine. Try it at El Cholero.

Refreshing Drink: Perfect for hot summer days.
Local Ingredients: Uses locally-made pineapple ice cream and brown wine.
Cultural Significance: Traditional drink of Concepción, named after the city's earthquakes.