Uruguay

What to eat in Montevideo

Montevideo’s cuisine is meat‑centric and heavily influenced by Spanish and Italian traditions. The city’s markets and parrillas offer generous portions and a relaxed dining pace.

Local dishes to try

Chivito

A massive steak sandwich with ham, cheese, egg and veggies, served in most parrillas and street carts.

Asado

Grilled beef ribs and sausages, typically enjoyed in the evening at parrillas or family gatherings.

Milanesa

Thin breaded meat (beef, chicken or veal) fried and served with salad or fries, common in casual eateries.

Empanada

Baked or fried turnovers filled with beef, chicken or cheese, sold in markets and street stalls.

Panchos

Hot dog with chorizo, topped with mayo, ketchup, and sometimes cheese, popular at fairs and kiosks.

Torta frita

Savory fried dough sprinkled with sugar, eaten as a snack or with tea, especially on rainy days.

Mate

Hot yerba mate shared socially, found in cafés and homes throughout the day.

Helado artesanal

Hand‑crafted ice cream with local fruits or dulce de leche, sold in gelaterias near the waterfront.

Where to eat

1
Mercado del Puerto
Seafood and beef parrillas, especially chivitos and asado, in a historic port market.
2
Calle 25 de Mayo
Numerous traditional restaurants and cafés offering milanesas, empanadas and mate.
3
Pocitos promenade
Beachside eateries serving grilled meats, fish and artisanal ice cream.