2 Best Restaurants in Santa Cruz, Central Bolivia

This is simply the best place to go for a taste of local Cruzeño cuisine. The cozy, traditional-feeling dining room is housed in a late-19th-century home with plenty of restored furniture, and the food is top notch—just like Grandma would have done it. The sopa de maní (peanut-and-potato soup) is rich and creamy, and the majadito con pato (a traditional dish of rice, duck, and fried plantain, topped with an egg) is a must. The menu changes daily and if you don't speak Spanish, it can be a little confusing, but soldier on through and eat whatever they bring you. You won't regret it.

Big and always busy, this restaurant is one of the best places to eat regional dishes. If variety is your spice, go straight for the buffet típico with a selection of 4 traditional dishes. Other popular selections include picante de gallina (spicy chicken) or chicharrón (boiled pork ribs seasoned with garlic, oregano, and lemon). Most plates are big enough for two. The kitchen and service are excellent. If you happen to stop by on a weekend, you'll be treated to live music. There are several branches, but the original is still the best.