The Central Coast Restaurants

1. El Chiringuito

Pelicans, gulls, and cormorants linger among the fishing boats anchored near this remarkable seafood restaurant. Because it's next door to the fishermen's cooperative, the seafood is always the freshest in town. A classic starter is machas (razor clams) parmesana, although locals will go for locos (Chilean abalone) or erizos (sea urchin). Then try any of the half a dozen types of fish, served with different sauces. The dining room—with a floor of crushed shells and hand-carved chairs resembling sea creatures—is a delight.