Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Santa Cruz, Bolivia
1. Salteña
A traditional Bolivian pastry filled with meat, olives, and hard-boiled egg. Originating from Salta, Argentina, but perfected in Santa Cruz.
- Tasty Fusion: Blend of Argentine and Bolivian flavors
- Portable Snack: Easy to carry for a quick, satisfying meal
- Affordable Delight: Delicious and inexpensive street food option
2. Chuños de Pescado
Traditional Bolivian fish prepared by freezing and grating it into small pieces. Served with corn, potatoes, and chilli pepper sauce.
- Taste of the Amazon: Authentic dish inspired by Santa Cruz's rainforest region
- Hearty Meal: Filling, nutritious, and popular among locals
- Cultural Connection: Learn about indigenous cooking techniques
3. Silpancho de Maní
Tender chicken covered in a thick peanut sauce and served with rice and potatoes. A favorite dish among Santa Cruz residents.
- Peanutty Flavor: Unique combination of savory and sweet flavors
- Heartwarming Comfort Food: A must-try for travelers looking to experience local cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Option: Affordable and delicious meal choice
4. Charque de Crudo
Traditional salted and air-dried beef served thinly sliced. A staple dish in Santa Cruz's cuisine.
- Authentic Experience: Taste the traditional flavors of Bolivia
- Adventurous Flavor: Bold, salty taste perfect for adventurous eaters
- Local Specialty: Can't leave Santa Cruz without trying this dish
5. Sopa Seca
A hearty meat and vegetable stew, served with rice on the side. Perfect comfort food for cooler evenings in Santa Cruz.
- Cozy Dish: Warming meal to enjoy during chilly nights
- Versatile Ingredients: Various meat and vegetable combinations available
- Sharing Dish: Ideal for group dining or trying a bit of everything
6. Ocopa
A thick, creamy sauce made from cheese and yellow pepper, served with boiled potatoes.
- Creamy Delight: Rich, cheesy sauce perfect for potato dipping
- Quick Snack: Ideal for a quick and easy meal on the go
- Local Tradition: Must-try side dish in Santa Cruz
7. Chicha de Jora
A traditional drink made from fermented corn. Served cold or hot, it's a popular beverage in Santa Cruz.
- Taste of the Region: Unique flavor inspired by local agriculture
- Refreshment on a Hot Day: Perfect for cooling off during warm weather
- Alcoholic Option: Try the fermented version for an intoxicating experience
8. Rocoto Relleno
Stuffed spicy pepper with a creamy filling of cheese and eggs. A flavorful dish that showcases Santa Cruz's tropical produce.
- Spice Level: Adjust the level of heat to your preference
- Rich Filling: Creamy, indulgent, and satisfying dish
- Seasonal Specialty: Best enjoyed during the pepper's ripe season
9. Pique Macho
A hearty salad-like dish consisting of various meats, potatoes, and vegetables served with eggs on top.
- Variety in One Dish: Enjoy a mix of flavors in one satisfying meal
- Popular Street Food: Ideal for exploring Santa Cruz's vibrant street food scene
- Customizable Dish: Choose your preferred ingredients and heat level
10. Masa de Guayaba y Queso
Sweet bread made from guava and cheese. A popular dessert in Santa Cruz.
- Tropical Twist: Unique flavor combination of sweet guava and salty cheese
- Sweet Treat: Perfect way to end a meal
- Traditional Dessert: An important part of Santa Cruz's cultural heritage
11. Tucumanas
Cornmeal pastries filled with meat, onions, and olives. Originally from Tucumán, Argentina, but widely popular in Santa Cruz.
- Fusion Cuisine: Blend of Argentine and Bolivian flavors
- Handheld Snack: Easy to carry for a quick, satisfying meal
- Affordable Delight: Delicious and inexpensive street food option
12. Manjar Blanco
Thick, creamy dessert made from milk, sugar, and cornstarch. A popular sweet treat in Santa Cruz.
- Traditional Dessert: An important part of Bolivia's cultural heritage
- Smooth Texture: Creamy, silky consistency that melts in your mouth
- Versatile Dish: Can be enjoyed on its own or served as a dessert sauce
13. Choripán
Grilled sausage served with crusty bread and chimichurri sauce. A favorite street food in Santa Cruz.
- Street Food Favorite: Ideal for exploring Santa Cruz's vibrant street food scene
- Handheld Meal: Easy to eat on the go or during a casual stroll
- Flavorful Option: Spicy and savory sausage paired with tangy chimichurri sauce
14. Tallarines Verdes
Noodles served in a green sauce made from herbs and vegetables. A popular dish in Santa Cruz.
- Fresh Flavor: Bright, aromatic sauce perfect for pasta lovers
- Vegetable-rich Dish: Packed with various vegetables and herbs
- Versatile Option: Serve with meat or enjoy as a vegetarian dish
15. Tapado
Stew made from fish, clams, and various vegetables served with rice. A traditional dish in Santa Cruz.
- Seafood Delight: Rich, flavorful stew showcasing local seafood
- Hearty Meal: Filling and nutritious dish perfect for a satisfying meal
- Cultural Connection: Learn about indigenous cooking techniques