Uruguay
Uruguayan cuisine carries the strong imprint of European immigration, notably from Spain and Italy, which shaped its culinary identity. The country's robust cattle farming tradition places beef as central to the diet.
The art of grilling beef, known as asado, is a national passion. Italian influence exists in pasta, pizza, and artisanal ice cream. Spanish traditions appear in stews and desserts.
Lunch is generally between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM. Dinner often starts after 9:00 PM, especially on weekends; many restaurants do not open until 8:00 PM or 8:30 PM.
Meals are often social affairs, meant to be enjoyed slowly. Tipping around 10% for good service is customary in restaurants; leave cash.
Accept the gourd when offered as a gesture of friendship. Sip directly from the bombilla until empty, then return the gourd to the cebador. Do not touch the bombilla.
The quintessential Uruguayan barbecue, with various cuts of high-quality beef grilled over hot coals. Often includes pork, chicken, and offal.
Find at: Any parrilla (steakhouse), especially Mercado del Puerto in Ciudad Vieja.
Uruguay's national sandwich: thinly sliced grilled beef, mozzarella, ham, bacon, fried egg, lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise on a bun, with fries.
Find at: Dedicated chiviterías and most casual restaurants.
Thinly pounded meat (beef or chicken), breaded and pan-fried. Often served with mashed potatoes or salad. Milanesa a la napolitana is a popular variation.
Find at: Casual restaurants, chiviterías, and bakeries.
Two soft shortbread-like biscuits filled with dulce de leche, often coated in chocolate or shredded coconut.
Artisanal ice cream is a local favorite, with rich, creamy flavors including numerous dulce de leche variations.
Montevideo has a growing fine dining scene, especially in upscale neighborhoods like Pocitos and Punta Carretas. These restaurants focus on modern Uruguayan cuisine or international fusion dishes.
This category is common in most neighborhoods, offering diverse choices from traditional parrillas to Italian-style eateries.
Options exist for quick, filling, and affordable meals.
Historic market hall famous for numerous parrilla stalls serving authentic Uruguayan barbecue. A lively, bustling place.
Quintessential Montevideo experience.
Newer, modern food hall in Cordón, with diverse culinary options and craft beer bars. Popular with younger locals.
Lively, contemporary atmosphere.
Many options reflect strong Italian heritage.
Growing number of options in trendy neighborhoods.
Available in cosmopolitan areas.
Mainly in Pocitos, Punta Carretas, and Cordón.
Availability of Halal and Kosher options is limited. Dedicated kosher restaurants are rare, though some kosher products might exist in specialized grocery stores due to a Jewish community.
Awareness of gluten-free ("sin TACC") and other allergies is improving, but may not be consistently understood. It is advisable to carry a Translation card explaining dietary restrictions in Spanish.
Health food stores or larger supermarkets may stock gluten-free products.
Some health food stores or larger supermarkets may stock specific dietary products.
For strict dietary needs, researching restaurants and grocery stores in advance is helpful.
Do not leave Montevideo without trying a chivito. It is an absolute must-try and offers a complete, satisfying meal experience unique to Uruguay.
