Trying Pastel de Choclo Santiago, Chile – Bar Nacional
Ahhh Pastel de Choclo Santiago, Chile. If you’re visiting Santiago and looking for traditional Chilean food, you’ve likely come across Pastel de Choclo—a beloved local dish that blends sweet corn with savory fillings like chicken, beef, and boiled egg.
In this post, I share my honest review of the Pastel de Choclo I ordered at Bar Nacional, a popular restaurant in the heart of Santiago.
Whether you’re planning your food itinerary or just curious about Chilean cuisine, this breakdown will give you insight into both the meal and a dining experience in Latin America.
[Watch the Video Below for Full Insight]
What Is Pastel de Choclo? Traditional Chilean Corn Pie Explained
Pastel de Choclo is often described as a Chilean version of shepherd’s pie but with a twist. Instead of mashed potatoes, it features a sweet corn topping made from ground corn (choclo), baked until golden. Underneath, you’ll often find a flavorful mix of:
- Ground beef or shredded chicken
- Hard-boiled egg
- Olives (sometimes with pits, so be careful!)
- Raisins or other regional ingredients
This dish is popular at local restaurants throughout Santiago and is a must-try if you want to experience authentic Chilean food.
Pastel de Choclo Santiago, Chile – Dining at Bar Nacional
I visited Bar Nacional, a classic Santiago restaurant that locals and tourists frequent alike. I had tried Pastel de Choclo at another spot before, but it was fairly basic. I wanted to give this place a shot to see if it lived up to the hype.
While the place has a traditional vibe and plenty of foot traffic, one thing you need when dining here — or anywhere in Latin America is patience. My food took a while to arrive, and I noticed several customers who came in after me were served first.
The Taste Test: How Was the Pastel de Choclo?
When my Pastel de Choclo finally arrived, the presentation was average. The outer edges were a bit cold, which made me think it might have been reheated. The chicken was slightly overcooked, but once I dug in and mixed the layers, I was pleasantly surprised.
This version had:
- Corn topping with a slightly sweet flavor
- Generous chunks of chicken
- Hard-boiled egg
- A few beans
- Olives (with pits, so chew cautiously)
Despite some minor flaws, the flavor and texture were far better than my previous experience. It was a hearty dish and gave me a fuller picture of how Pastel de Choclo is meant to be enjoyed.
Latin American Restaurant Culture: The Service Reality
One thing travelers should know about restaurants in Latin America: the service model is very different from what many North Americans expect. Servers often drop off the food and don’t return until it’s time to bring the bill —and ask for a tip.
While I understand tipping customs vary by country, I personally believe tips should reflect quality service. It’s frustrating when servers disappear, then show up at the end expecting a bonus!
I went ahead and gave the suggested 10% tip that was included on the receipt because overall, the waiter was cool. If you’re dining out in Chile, that’s the standard.
Costs and Convenience: Using QR Codes to Access Menus
Like many Latin American restaurants, Bar Nacional uses QR codes for their menus. I initially had trouble accessing the internet with my eSIM, but after restarting my phone, I was able to browse the menu.
The total cost for my meal and drink came to 18,000 Chilean pesos, or about $18 USD. This included the main dish and a glass of fresh (but average) orange juice.
Is It Worth Trying Pastel de Choclo Santiago, Chile Style?
Would I eat here again? Maybe. I’d give the meal a B-rating: good, but not exceptional. The flavor was enjoyable and the dish had a variety of ingredients that made it feel authentic. However, the slow service and minor food issues prevent me from giving it a full recommendation.
If you want to try Pastel de Choclo in Santiago, Chile, then Bar Nacional is a decent option. Just be prepared for a slower pace and different service expectations.
