Top 5 Arica Food & Drink: A Delicious Guide
Arica, Chile is almost like a northern treasure, that is filled with stunning scenery and a culture that’s definitely very vibrant. You’ll find it’s sometimes called the “City of Eternal Spring,” that actually makes it pretty appealing all year round. That being said, one way to really experience Arica is seemingly through its food and drink. That’s why we’ve put together this guide, so you too can check out what makes Arica so yummy! Let’s explore some must-try foods and drinks that tell Arica’s flavorful tale. Read our full review: Arica Food Full Review and Details
1. Trying Arica’s Ceviche: The Freshest Catch
Ceviche in Arica? So, it is arguably not just any ceviche, but a real showcase of super fresh seafood that is plucked straight from the Pacific. It’s usually prepared there with locally caught fish. Sea bass tends to be the star, and that is very lightly “cooked” in lemon juice. It comes to life seemingly with red onions, cilantro, and just a touch of chili. Every bite is a super burst of tangy, briny, and a bit spicy taste. Some places kind of add their own twist with local herbs or a bit of mango, giving this traditional dish a distinct Arica stamp. Trying ceviche at a beachfront restaurant as you are watching the waves? Arguably that is just unbeatable. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Best Arica Ceviche)
2. Discovering Chaparritas: A Taste of Home
If you are searching for real local flavor, well you might just try Chaparritas. Those seemingly are quite tasty little fried pastries, that is very commonly filled with savory things such as cheese, olives, or seasoned ground meat. Locals usually enjoy these as a kind of snack, almost like a quick bite to keep them going throughout the day, yet they also star as appetizers during bigger meals. Almost that is served with a pebre (a kind of Chilean salsa), Chaparritas offer this wonderful mix of flavors and textures that really says a lot about home-style cooking in Arica. If you are wandering the city, so you might want to keep an eye out for street vendors and tiny cafes that are known for their chaparritas, for this seriously authentic taste. Read our full review: Chile Street Food Full Review and Details
3. Sipping on Mango Sour: A Tropical Twist
Arica’s climate tends to be good for growing mangos, that are so ripe and so juicy, so it’s natural that someone thought, why not make them into a super refreshing cocktail? The Mango Sour isn’t your ordinary drink; seemingly it is a tropical take on the classic Pisco Sour. That is very crafted using the regions own Pisco (a kind of brandy), fresh mango pulp, lime juice, and a hint of sweetness. The end product? More or less, is this absolutely smooth, fruity cocktail, with a great balance of tartness and sweetness, and of course, a subtle kick. Lounging with a Mango Sour in hand? Arguably it offers a pretty perfect way to cool down and soak in Arica’s vibe. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Mango Sour Recipe Arica)
4. Savoring Aceitunas de Azapa: A Special Olive
You will find Arica, almost, to be very well-known for its Aceitunas de Azapa. Those are so special due to this area in the Azapa Valley where they’re cultivated. The olives seem to have a flavor of their own, boasting this slight sweetness plus this unique meatiness not found in other types of olives. Typically, they might be larger too. The rich soil and this dry climate help with what makes them quite distinct. Locally they’re usually served as appetizers or used quite a bit in various dishes, imparting a touch of Arica’s specific terroir into every meal. Getting some Aceitunas de Azapa to enjoy during sunsets could be quite nice! Read our full review: Aceitunas de Azapa Olives Full Review and Details
5. Tasting Panqueques de Quinua: A Healthy Indulgence
Thinking about tasting something healthy plus super delicious? So, you may want to try Panqueques de Quinua. These are, more or less, quite wholesome quinoa pancakes, and a real staple in Arica. Prepared using locally sourced quinoa, so you will find that these pancakes boast this lovely nutty flavor with this amazing fluffy texture. You’ll typically find them offered at breakfast spots and health-focused restaurants all around town. Usually, these Panqueques might be topped with everything from fresh fruit to honey, or even a dollop of creamy yogurt, and really offers this guilt-free indulgence packed with goodness. Seeing the beautiful Andes Mountains behind you while indulging in this? Yes, basically. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Quinoa Pancakes Arica)