Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, is the city with the best quality of life in Latin America, according to the Mercer Index. It owes this, in part, to its incredible food which adds a little slice of heaven to daily life in the city.
From the dazzling Central Business District to vibrant beachside communities, Montevideo offers something for every traveller. Better still, it is home to an eclectic and growing food scene, with cultural influences from across the globe. Whether you’re out for fine dining or an authentic street food experience, the capital is teeming with places to grab an unforgettable meal. Small wonder, then, that Montevideo is a favourite destination of food critic Anthony Bourdain.
Stuck for choice? We’ve scoped out the best places to eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner in Montevideo for those lucky enough to experience a whole day of eating in the city.
First stop, Sucré Salé
Sucré Salé Café & Bistró is a favoured brunch spot on the edge of the Pocitos neighbourhood. The cafe offers an open, relaxed space with a light and airy feel. It also has a tranquil outdoor garden where you can enjoy your morning coffee in the fresh air.
On arrival, you’ll likely be greeted with the delightful aroma of freshly baked pastries. Expect colourful food and great flavours made from fresh, local ingredients. Whether you opt for something sweet or savoury, breakfast at Sucré Salé Café & Bistró is a great way to start the day and is bound to leave you wanting more.
At noon, we go to Mercado Ferrando
The up-and-coming Cordon Soho is one of the best areas of the city. It has a trendy, bohemian feel, and a lot of young professionals gravitate to this part of the city to hang out and eat great food.
Cordon Soho is home to a bunch of cool food halls, craft breweries, Spanish tapas restaurants, and the like—but Mercado Ferrando is a particular highlight. This open-plan 2,000 sqm food hall is characterised by its hanging plants and its greenhouse-style roof which lets light flood into the venue. Customers can take their pic of delicious street food dishes offered by ten local vendors, and there is usually some event or other going on. Tuck into a taste of Uruguay as you chat with friends and relax to live music performances under the open sky.
A quick snack at Philomène
Philomène is a hidden gem in the luxurious Punta Carretas neighbourhood, opened by the Caubarrère sisters in 2009. With artisanal coffee and delicious handmade scones, Philomène is a great place to stop for coffee and cake—although, if you do, you might struggle to resist the temptation of their lunch and dinner menu.
Los Leños, the main event
Los Leños is the place to go in Montevideo for outstanding local food. From excellently cooked meats and rich seafood paella to a variety of gnocchi dishes, there is something for everyone on the menu here. Exposed brick and wall art make for a trendy and relaxed setting. Visitors can also enjoy enticing cocktails and beautifully crafted desserts (their Belgian chocolate cream with dulce de leche and wild berries is a popular choice!).
As a favourite on the Montevideo food scene, Los Leños is the perfect way to round off your day of eating in the city. With such an eclectic mix of cultural influences, it’s hard to deny the allure of the capital’s cuisine. Hopefully, these cafés and restaurants leave you feeling full and satisfied, with a taste of Uruguay that is difficult to forget.
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