Traditional Bolivian Foods to Try (& Drinks Too!)

One of my favorite things to do while traveling is trying the delicious local dishes. Bolivia wowed me with their unexpected food scene. From hearty soups to mouthwatering street snacks, this country offers a rich tapestry of tastes rooted in its history and culture. 

​If you’re a world traveler eager to discover new foods, here’s a guide to some must-try Bolivian dishes and treats—as well as where to find them in La Paz, a city bursting with culinary surprises.

I’ve listed popular dishes of Bolivian gastronomy that were some of my favorites during my visit to the country. Try them out!

Bolivian Foods and Drinks to Try

1. Api

Let’s start with a warm, comforting drink called api. This traditional hot beverage is made from purple corn, sugar, and spices like cloves and cinnamon. It’s usually served steaming in a bowl or cup, sometimes topped with a bit of cheese or a fried dough called tanta wurku. 

Api is more than just a drink—it’s a cultural symbol, often enjoyed during festivals and mornings, especially in the chilly highlands. You can find api in La Paz at local markets like Mercado Rodríguez or small street stalls. It’s perfect for warming up after a morning of sightseeing!

2. Pastel

Next up is pastel, a sweet, flaky pastry often filled with fruit preserves or cheese. It’s a popular snack or breakfast item in Bolivia, and the best way to enjoy it is with a cup of coffee or api. Think of it as a flaky, sweet embrace that pairs perfectly with the cool mountain air. 

You can find pastel at bakeries throughout La Paz, particularly in the Mercado Lanza or at local bakeries in Sopocachi. It’s a delightful treat to start your day or enjoy as an afternoon pick-me-up.

3. Sandwich de Chorizo con Marraqueta Bread

Now, for something heartier: the sandwich de chorizo made with marraqueta bread. Marraqueta is a soft, slightly sweet white bread with a crusty exterior—perfect for holding a generous filling of spicy chorizo sausage, fresh vegetables, and sauces. This sandwich is a street food staple in La Paz, especially in the early mornings or late evenings. 

It’s a satisfying, savory snack that captures the essence of Bolivian street cuisine. Look for vendors near the city center or in local markets for an authentic experience.

PRO TIP: If you want to spice it up, top your sandwich with llajua, a chili sauce made from locotos, spicy peppers.

4. Llama

Llama meat isn’t just for trekking expeditions—it’s a delicacy in Bolivia. It is lean and flavorful and can be prepared in various ways: grilled, roasted, or made into stews. Historically, llamas have been vital to Andean life, providing transportation, wool, and sustenance. 

When dining in La Paz, try llama steak at traditional restaurants like Gustu or local eateries that serve authentic Andean cuisine. The meat is a must-try for adventurous eaters wanting to taste a true part of Bolivian heritage.

If you’re a little less adventurous, try a llama burger. It’s the perfect combination between modern and traditional cuisines.

5. Chairo Soup

If you’re craving something hearty, chairo is a traditional Bolivian soup packed with vegetables, beef, potatoes, corn, and sometimes wheat or rice. It’s seasoned with herbs and spices, giving it a warm, comforting flavor—perfect for the high-altitude chill. 

Originating from the Andean highlands, chairo is often enjoyed during festivals and family gatherings. You can find it in La Paz in local restaurants or food markets like Mercado Lanza. It’s an excellent way to taste the local culinary soul.

6. Sopa de Mani

Another beloved soup is sopa de maní, a creamy peanut soup that’s rich and satisfying. It is made using ground peanuts. Despite the name—mani, meaning peanut—the soup isn’t overly sweet but has a hearty, nutty flavor that’s deeply comforting. It’s often served with potatoes or rice on the side. 

Try it at traditional Bolivian restaurants or street vendors. It’s especially popular in colder months or after a busy day exploring.

7. Relleno de Papa

Let’s talk about relleno de papa, a stuffed potato. The dish features mashed potatoes layered or stuffed with cheese, eggs, or sometimes ground meat, then baked. It’s a typical comfort food in Bolivia, especially in the highlands. You might find it at local family-run eateries or in markets. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for a quick lunch or snack.

8. Pique Macho

Pique macho is a must-try for those who love a spicy, meaty feast. This dish consists of fried beef chunks, sausages, french fries, corn, peppers, and hard-boiled eggs, all smothered in spicy sauce. It’s usually served on a large platter and shared among friends—think of it as a Bolivian version of a hearty, spicy stew. 

You’ll find excellent pique macho in La Paz at places like Fabrica de Queso or local parrillas (grill restaurants). It’s perfect for a lively meal after a day of exploration. This was the most delicious dish and was a typical Bolivian dish.

9. Charqueka

Moving on to charqueka, a traditional dish made from dried, cured meat (charqui) cooked with potatoes, corn, and sometimes vegetables. The dish is hearty and rustic, reflecting Bolivia’s Indigenous culinary roots. It’s often served during festivals or special occasions. 

To try charqueka in La Paz, visit local markets or traditional restaurants that serve regional specialties. It’s a taste of Bolivia’s history preserved in a flavorful dish.

10. Salteñas

For breakfast, try the national dish of Bolivia. Salteñas are Bolivia’s beloved savory pastries—think of them as the country’s answer to a baked empanada, but juicier. They’re filled with meat, potatoes, peas, and spices and baked into a golden, flaky shell. 

The magic of salteñas is in their juicy filling—be prepared for a flavorful burst with each bite. They’re a popular breakfast or snack, especially in the mornings at street stalls or bakeries like Confiteria La Salteña. Be sure to eat them carefully—they’re often very juicy!

11. Silpancho

If you’re craving a hearty dish, silpancho is a fantastic choice. It’s a traditional Bolivian dish originating from Cochabamba but widely enjoyed throughout the country, including La Paz. 

Think of it as a flavorful, layered plate: a bed of white rice topped with a thin breaded and fried beef fillet (think Milanesa), then garnished with a fried egg, potatoes, salad, and sometimes a spicy salsa. The combination of crispy, tender, and fresh ingredients makes it a true comfort food. 

In La Paz, silpancho is a regional specialty served at many local restaurants. It’s perfect for a filling lunch or dinner after a day exploring the city’s sights. 

12. Mocochinchi

Another traditional drink is mocochinchi, made from dried peaches boiled with cinnamon and sugar and cooled to serve. It’s sweet and fragrant and perfect for cooling down on a hot day. Mocochinchi is widely available at markets and street stalls across La Paz. It’s a refreshing, sweet way to stay hydrated while exploring.

13. Chuflay

The national drink of Bolivia is a mixture of singani and ginger ale. English engineers were working on laying the Bolivian railroad track in the early 20th Century. They enjoyed drinking a “Gin & Gin,” which was gin and ginger ale. The gin was replaced with locally available singani. They would swat at flies and say “shoo fly,” which led to the drink’s name. 

14. Coca Tea

Finally, no list of Bolivian foods would be complete without mentioning coca tea, which is made from coca leaves. This tea is a traditional remedy for altitude sickness and a cultural staple. It has a mild, earthy flavor and is served hot in tea houses and cafes throughout La Paz. Drinking coca tea is a respectful way to connect with local customs and help acclimate to the high-altitude environment.

Where to Try Bolivian Foods in La Paz

La Paz is a culinary treasure trove, with street food vendors, markets, and restaurants offering these delicious foods. 

For authentic street snacks like salteñas, the best places to try are the Mercado Lanza or Mercado Rodríguez. The food stalls in the markets are divided by what they offer, so those serving pastel are located together, and the stalls serving sandwiches are in another market area.

Traditional dishes like pique macho and chairo can be found in local parrillas or regional restaurants—ask locals for their favorites! For a more upscale experience, Gustu serves innovative takes on traditional dishes, blending Bolivian flavors with modern techniques.

Local spots like Jardin de Asia often serve delicious versions of Bolivia’s home-cooked flavors on a satisfying plate. Don’t skip the Bolivian restaurant inside the Sagarnaga Hotel, El Tambo – the prices are affordable, and they offer a great selection.

Final Thoughts on Bolivian Foods to Try

If you’re a fan of potatoes, the local cuisine in Bolivia will appeal to your taste buds. Potatoes are a staple of Bolivian cuisine. Try traditional Bolivian food while exploring this beautiful country, from a main course to popular street food.

​Don’t miss the opportunity to try some delicious Bolivian foods while visiting La Paz and other Bolivian cities. So, pack your appetite and prepare to discover Bolivia’s incredible foods—each one a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of the Andes. 

Check out these related posts:

• Tips for Preventing Altitude Sickness
• El Salvador Foods to Try

Happy travels,
Annick, The Common Traveler

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