5 Best Restaurants in Valdivia, The Lake District

This riverfront institution is constantly packed with locals, which is always a good sign that you've come to the right restaurant. The Argentine owner Teodoro Poulsen serves beef and chicken in delicious Argentine parrilla style. Though the restaurant bills itself as the king of steak, you might consider the chicken (milanesa de pollo) instead. To do it right, order a bottle of wine from their excellent wine list to accompany your meal.

The excellent crudos (steak tartare), German-style sandwiches, and delicious küchen cakes here are testament to the fact that Valdivia was once a mecca for German immigrants. The restaurant's newer, bigger location is spacious and has relaxing outdoor seating, the perfect spot to down crudos with local beer.

The creative and wide variety of sandwiches in this bohemian café have made it legendary. On first glance, La Ultima Frontera appears to be nothing more than a college hangout or a trendy place for the artsy crowd, but the abundant and delicious food attracts young and old. Inhabiting a restored mansion, the place has colorful art on the walls and a popular outdoor terrace. The many locally brewed beers on tap provide the perfect complement.

Louisiana Cajun cooking in southern Chile is far from common, but this place pulls it off and has become a must-stop on the tourist trail. Excellent meats and seafood with a spicy, Cajun twist populate the extensive menu, like filete Mardi Gras or red curry shrimp. As noteworthy as the food, the service and ambience contribute positively to the whole experience.

This swanky café caters to Valdivian business executives who come here to make deals over sandwiches, decadent crepes, and desserts. In the evenings, the atmosphere feels less formal—the menu is exactly the same—as the Entrelagos becomes a place to meet friends who converse well into the night. Next door is the Entrelagos chocolate store, which is a good place to buy a gift or splurge.