Café Iyael

Cafés

Even though many coffee bean varieties are grown in South America, there was no big coffee culture in Chile until only a few decades ago. The hot drink of choice is definitely tea, especially yerba mate – an infusion drink made from cut and dried leaves of the mate shrub. Mate was already popular before the colonisation of South America. If coffee is served, you will often get it in small teacups, unlike larger serving sizes customary in Europe or America. In the 50s, a particular coffee house style established itself in Chile, the Café con Piernas, 'coffee with legs'. In these coffee houses, waitresses work on platforms behind the bar in considerably short skirts. However, despite this questionable feature, these cafés are not uncomfortable or sleazy, but furnished elegantly and are located in the main pedestrian areas rather than in hidden side alleyways. No alcohol is served, instead, you will typically find great coffee from hefty espresso machines.

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Wonderland Café

Wonderland Café is a cozy and authentic retreat hidden in the Barrio Lastarria. An oasis of calm in the city's bustle, where you can relax with a good book and a cup of tea. Try their delicious brunch or indulge in a full English breakfast and fall like Alice through a rabbit hole of …

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Quererte Cafetería

Although Quererte Cafeteria is located a bit outside Santiago's city centre, you should definitely check it out! Their fresh cakes and sweet treats are best accompanied by a hot cup of coffee or a delicious smoothie. This is also a great place for lunch, as Quererte have a selection of smaller dishes like avocado …

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Café Iyael

Café Iyael is a popular café among Santiago's locals and known for their delicious cheesy empanadas. They are the perfect snack if you are feeling a little peckish but it won't be hard to stuff yourself with them in lieu of lunch or dinner either. Iyael's mama owner refuses to reveal her empanada secret …

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Almacen Vegano Ostara

Almacen Vegano Ostara is a vegan grocery store that also offers ready to eat cakes, sweets, empanadas and sandwiches, if you feel like getting a snack in between sightseeing. Their location is perfect – in the center of the city – and the variety of vegan products seems endless, so in case you prefer …

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Survenir

Café Survenir is the perfect place for a relaxed lunch at a great price. There is a daily rotating menu of homemade and fresh food made from local produce. You will also find a selection of cakes and pastries if there is still room for sweets after …

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Faustina Café

Faustina Café serves delicious pastries, freshly pressed juices and colorful salads in a relaxed atmosphere. The quality of the coffee is excellent with a number of options to choose from. Come here for a real coffee and some baked treats, or enjoy a chilled lemonade in the outdoor seating …

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Dulcería Violeta

At Dulcería Violeta the staff of attentive old ladies wearing old-fashioned white dresses and hats will spoil you with the tastiest cakes and pastries. The cafe is located in a historic building that is tucked away between modern ones. Try their tortas de mil hojas, a multi-layered cake made with …

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Work/Café Santander

No need to despair should you just not be able to leave work at home completely. Work/Café Santander gives you the opportunity to stay on the grind in a free co-working space with several locations across the city, while still enjoying great coffee, Chilean specialties and meeting new …

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