Discovering the culture of a destination through gastronomy is the reason that moves many travelers from one place to another. According to a Marriott International survey on travel trends in Latin America and the Caribbean, sampling the local cuisine (65%) is one of the experiences most enjoyed by tourists, along with exploring the culture and history (73%) and outdoor activities (64%). And, each country has ingredients, techniques, and dishes that combine unique flavors, which become a way to explore the destination to visit, first times, and memorable memories. That is why we present a list of restaurants that pay homage to Latin American cuisine, with traditional recipes that will become happy memories.
Hacienda Kitchen, Costa Rica
From the traditional gallo pinto at breakfast to popular dishes such as Casado, Chifrijo, and Olla de Carne, also available in vegetarian versions, at the Hacienda Kitchen restaurant at Costa Rica Marriott Hacienda Belen, you will find a variety of Tico delicacies, some of them prepared with recipes from the family legacy of some of the hotel's collaborators.
Masi, Panama City
Located on the 14th floor of the JW Marriott Panama, Masi offers vibrant culinary experiences that blend the flavor of the sea, fire, and fresh vegetables that are typical of local cuisine and result in traditional recipes with innovative techniques. This restaurant has a remarkable variety of ceviches, grilled beef cuts, fresh salads, and a collection of desserts that are an ode to coffee, rice fields, and sugar cane, as well as a curated selection of signature cocktails. The restaurant's name means food in the Dulegaya language, native to some indigenous comarcas such as the Guna Yala.
Cayeye, Colombian Caribbean
Cayeye is a traditional dish from the department of Magdalena, to which Santa Marta, the Pearl of America, belongs. It consists of boiled and mashed green banana that is stirred with butter, whey, and cheese, and accompanied with a protein and hogao. This delicacy gives its name to one of the restaurants at the Santa Marta Marriott Resort Playa Dormida, where in addition to Cayeye you can enjoy fried snapper accompanied by coconut rice and patacones, the jewel of Colombian Caribbean cuisine par excellence, chicharrón ceviche, and many other delicacies.
Terra Mare, Guyana
Located in the Guyana Marriott Hotel, just off Kingston's waterfront and near the phenomenal Umana Yana, Terra Mare offers a culturally diverse Guyanese dining experience in an elegant and sophisticated setting. The menu features typical dishes such as Roti, Fish Cake, and Sawine Cake, among others. Without a doubt, Terra Mare is a must for foodies.
Chalana, Paracas, Peru
With its exclusive location on the private dock of Hotel Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort, and open to the general public, Chalana restaurant offers a fresh, creative, and inspiring culinary experience with an amazing view of the sea and a select menu that practices the innovative concept of Kilometer Zero to bet on local fishing, conscious of the time of the species, and responsible with the environment.
Karai, Chile
Karai, the Nikkei restaurant of W Santiago, currently on the list of the 50 Best Discovery Chile 2024, led by Mitsuharu Tsumura, the Peruvian chef better known as "Micha," the same behind the Maido restaurant in Lima, number 6 on the list of The World's 50 Best Restaurants and number 1 as the best restaurant in Latin America. Of particular note at this restaurant is its impressive selection of sushi, sashimi, and nigiri, along with more typically South American dishes such as ceviche and tiradito, all of which are full of flavor and exquisitely presented. Undoubtedly, Karai by Mitsuharu brings together the best of Peruvian flavor, Japanese technique, and Chilean produce in one place.
Terraço Jardins, Sao Paulo
Located at the Renaissance São Paulo Hotel, the Terraço Jardins restaurant offers a selection of dishes inspired by local caipira and caiçara cuisine, creations of chef Raul Vieira with ingredients native to the Atlantic Forest. Starting February 27, Terraço Jardins will have a renewed menu that invites you to a true journey through the traditions of the state of São Paulo, where some of the dishes are: the irresistible Octopus Sandwich, prepared with cará bread, catupiry, and spring onion; the delicious Rabanada da vovó, accompanied by cinnamon ice cream and homemade dulce de leche; and the Grilled Ancho Steak served with broccoli rabe, biro biro rice, and herb sauce.
Ready to embark on a culinary adventure like no other? Explore the flavors of the world with our curated list of top restaurants in every destination! Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and create unforgettable memories on your next trip. Bon appétit!