Food is one of those pleasures that has a different taste in every corner of the world; through dishes, you can even learn more about a country's culture. This is no exaggeration because there are even gastronomies that are considered Intangible Cultural Heritage, such as Mexican or Peruvian cuisine. The region of Latin America, comprising part of North America from Mexico, Central America, and South America to the far reaches of Argentina, is characterized by dishes that are even coveted worldwide.
In fact, there is a tourist type in which travelers seek, precisely, to get to know a new place through its flavors and travel in search of traditional dishes, as well as those that were prepared centuries ago and are the heritage of our ancestors. Mesoamerican cultures had a completely different way of thinking than Europeans and Iberians and enriched the cuisine with pre-Columbian elements; during the conquest, these preparations changed and adapted.
Finally, with modern techniques and new minds seeking not only taste but also aesthetics, Latin American cuisine has, in a way, been reborn and now occupies a special place in global tastes.
So, this time you will learn about some of the top restaurants in Latin America so that, if you wish, you can taste the best of each culture on your palate. Of course, it would be impossible to mention every restaurant on the continent, so an example will be taken from the north, center, and south of the Americas.
Panama and its flavors
Panama is a destination that may not be as highly popular as Brazil or Argentina, but this does not mean that there is no good food here; quite the opposite. Throughout the territory, you can find world-class restaurants in Panama with different visions, one of which is Azafrán.
Under the leadership of Spanish chef Álvaro Perrino, you can enjoy preparations with meats such as beef, fish, or even duck, a blend of flavors from Asia, Spain, and Latin America. Makoto is another alternative in Panama with a conception focused directly on Asia; Japanese chef Makoto Okuwa came to the country amazed by the abundance of sea proteins he found and finally stayed to complement Panamanian cuisine. Spanish chef Andrés Madrigal founded a place called Laboratorio Madrigal, and it is true, visiting it is a unique experience you must discover. Dishes with shrimp and jicama, grouper in teriyaki sauce, roasted vegetables, and rabbit - in short, the mixtures you will find will simply amaze you.
Vegetarian options in Colombia
It may seem strange to hear Colombia and vegetarian food in the same sentence, but it is no joke; in this country, alternatives for those who do not like meat have been embraced as a real option that has gained worldwide recognition. The Valle del Cauca region has Cali as its crown jewel, music, natural sites, and, of course, food are famous.
Vegetarian restaurants in Cali, such as Frutos del Sol, are an example of this, considered a bio-restaurant, it invites the visitor to eat like never before, with a perfect nutritional balance. Basically, the dish will be completely customized for you with options of vegetable protein like the famous Inti Raymi steak. Good food is called "vegetarian alchemy," vegetarian ramen, grilled legumes such as soy, mushrooms, and ripe banana. Vegan Lotus Flower welcomes you with oriental music and sounds of nature, considered one of the best vegan restaurants; they choose ingredients with extreme care.
Meat dishes in Mexico
Of course, in tastes and colors, as they say, there is no disputing, so the meat option is found in Mexico, specifically in meat restaurants in Monterrey. Grilled meat dishes are a kind of ritual in northern Mexico, and Nuevo León is a state where meat occupies an essential place in the culture. Gran Pastor is one of the most exclusive restaurants and has been around for over 50 years; besides, you can enjoy live music. El Rey del Cabrito is a must-visit to try the traditional meat of this mammal cooked slowly over a fire and with wood. Pangea, led by chef Guillermo Beristáin, combines the best of contemporary cuisine with exclusive meat dishes.
Thus, alternatives in Latin America regarding food range from traditional to experimental; keep that in mind on your next vacation.