Santiago, as the capital of Chile, is adjacent to the vast Pacific coastline, boasting abundant fresh seafood resources. The city’s harbors are rich, and the variety of seafood is diverse—from plump salmon and tender scallops to the prized Chilean king crab, every seafood dish is irresistibly delicious. For seafood lovers, Santiago is not only a city rich in culture and nature but also an ultimate feast for the palate.
I have specially compiled a list of top seafood harbor restaurants in Santiago for seafood enthusiasts. These restaurants not only use fresh ingredients and skilled culinary techniques but also provide a comfortable dining environment combined with excellent service, allowing you to enjoy delicious food while feeling right at home. Whether you want to experience traditional Chilean seafood flavors or modern innovative seafood cuisine, these restaurants will meet your expectations. Let’s embark on this seafood feast together!
1.Restaurant Recommendation One: Donde Augusto
Restaurant Overview
Donde Augusto is one of Santiago’s most iconic seafood destinations, nestled within the vibrant Mercado Central. This historic market is the heart of local seafood trade, and the restaurant proudly reflects this heritage. With decades of culinary experience, Donde Augusto maintains the essence of traditional Chilean coastal dining while incorporating consistent quality and fresh seafood that appeals to both seasoned locals and international travelers looking for an authentic experience.
Location and Environment
The restaurant is situated in the bustling heart of the market. The interior is simple yet full of traditional harbor charm, with wooden long tables and an open kitchen allowing diners to witness the fresh seafood preparation up close. The lively atmosphere is perfect for those who enjoy the hustle and bustle and want to experience local life.
Signature Dishes
- Chilean Seafood Stew (Caldillo de Congrio): This hearty stew features tender conger eel, vegetables, and fragrant spices, slow-cooked to create a deeply satisfying broth that warms both body and soul.
- Fresh Oysters: Sourced daily from the Chilean coast, these oysters are served raw on the half shell with simple garnishes to let their ocean-fresh flavor shine.
- Grilled King Crab: A crowd favorite, this dish showcases thick chunks of succulent crab meat grilled to perfection, topped with aromatic garlic butter that enhances its natural sweetness.
Why Choose Donde Augusto
This restaurant delivers a feast that feels both generous and genuine. The combination of affordable prices, large portions, and fast service makes it a top choice for groups or casual seafood fans. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick oyster snack or indulging in a full seafood feast, Donde Augusto offers an immersive, flavorful journey into Chile’s culinary heritage.
2.Restaurant Recommendation Two: Liguria
Restaurant Overview
Liguria is a staple of Santiago’s dining scene, famous not just for its food, but for its vibrant ambiance that mixes Chilean culture with cosmopolitan flair. It’s a refined yet approachable restaurant that caters to both long-time residents and first-time visitors. Known for fusing tradition with innovation, Liguria takes local ingredients and classic flavors and elevates them with global cooking techniques and stylish presentation.
Location and Environment
Centrally positioned in the trendy Providencia district, Liguria is easily accessible and close to theaters, museums, and shopping avenues. The interior décor features a delightful mix of antique maps, vintage posters, and rich wood accents, making each dining area visually stimulating. Whether you’re on a date, a business lunch, or a family outing, Liguria offers the right balance of privacy, space, and charm to match any occasion.
Signature Dishes
- Chilean Style Seafood Platter: A true showpiece, this generous sampler includes an array of delicacies from the sea, expertly arranged and paired with zesty sauces that enhance the natural brininess of the seafood.
- Smoked Salmon with Avocado Sauce: The salmon is lightly smoked in-house and served with creamy avocado purée, delivering a refined balance of smoke, richness, and freshness.
- Seafood Pasta: A comfort classic with a local twist, this pasta is loaded with plump shrimp and mussels and finished with a savory tomato-based sauce, perfect for pasta and seafood lovers alike.
Why Choose Liguria
Dining at Liguria is not just about eating—it’s about indulging in an atmosphere that celebrates Chilean pride and culinary creativity. The well-trained staff, elegant setting, and consistently delicious menu make it a go-to for those seeking a sophisticated yet heartfelt dining experience. It’s particularly well-suited for special dinners or long, leisurely lunches.
3.Restaurant Recommendation Three: Aquí Está Coco
Restaurant Overview
Aquí Está Coco is a pioneer in Chile’s sustainable seafood movement and a top-tier dining destination known for its innovative approach to ocean-inspired cuisine. With a legacy dating back to the 1970s, this restaurant has reinvented itself multiple times while staying true to its roots—offering exquisite food while advocating for marine conservation. Its commitment to eco-friendly sourcing sets it apart as a leader in responsible gastronomy.
Location and Environment
Hidden in a serene street near the heart of Santiago, Aquí Está Coco welcomes guests with a stunning interior that mimics the tranquility and mystery of the ocean. From wave-like architecture to handcrafted marine-themed artworks, every corner reflects the beauty of the sea. The lighting is soft and romantic, perfect for quiet evenings, celebrations, or an intimate dinner with someone special. The ambiance invites guests to disconnect from the urban rush and immerse themselves in a sensory escape.
Signature Dishes
- Squid Ink Risotto (Arroz Negro): This visually striking dish is rich, umami-packed, and cooked to a silky consistency that harmonizes the deep flavors of squid ink with the creaminess of risotto.
- Fried Cod with Special Sauce: Golden and crisp outside, flaky and moist inside, the cod is elevated by a house-made sauce whose tangy and savory notes make every bite pop.
- Grilled Chilean Bass: A health-conscious yet flavorful option, this dish uses fresh-caught bass with a light herb rub and lemon zest, capturing the pure taste of the sea.
Why Choose Aquí Está Coco
If you’re looking for more than just a good meal, Aquí Está Coco offers a meaningful culinary experience. It’s the perfect choice for those who care about sustainability without compromising on luxury or flavor. The service is attentive yet relaxed, and the entire dining journey—from the setting to the plating—feels like a celebration of nature, art, and taste.
4.Restaurant Recommendation Four: Puerto Claro
Restaurant Overview
Puerto Claro is a charming eatery that dedicates itself to serving traditional Chilean seafood cuisine. With a philosophy rooted in authenticity and simplicity, the restaurant prides itself on reviving the true flavors of Chile’s coastal culinary heritage. Each dish is crafted using freshly sourced seafood, many of which come directly from the local docks, ensuring both quality and freshness. Over the years, Puerto Claro has earned a solid reputation among locals and tourists alike for offering hearty, home-style meals that reflect the essence of Chilean maritime culture.
Location and Environment
Conveniently located near Santiago’s city-center waterfront, Puerto Claro enjoys a tranquil ambiance away from the city’s hustle and bustle. The rustic yet cozy interior features maritime-inspired decor, including nautical ropes, wooden fixtures, and marine artwork that echo the spirit of the nearby ocean. For those who enjoy open-air dining, the restaurant offers a spacious outdoor patio where guests can soak in the salty breeze and scenic harbor views while enjoying their meals. It’s an ideal spot for a laid-back lunch or a sunset seafood dinner.
Signature Dishes
- Seafood Stew (Mariscal): A hearty bowl loaded with shrimp, clams, fish slices, squid, and aromatic herbs. The broth is slow-cooked for hours, rich in umami and deeply satisfying.
- Grilled Oysters with Lemon Garlic Sauce: Freshly harvested oysters are grilled over open flames and topped with zesty lemon and minced garlic, enhancing their briny sweetness.
- Spicy Shrimp: This dish features plump shrimp sautéed in a bold, house-made chili sauce that strikes a perfect balance between heat and flavor, ideal for spice lovers.
Why Choose Puerto Claro
Puerto Claro delivers a down-to-earth yet delightful dining experience where quality seafood takes center stage. With generous portions and an honest, unpretentious style, the restaurant appeals to those who crave the comforting flavors of a traditional Chilean harbor meal. Whether you’re visiting with family or catching up with friends, the warm service and relaxed vibe make it a go-to destination for a satisfying seafood feast.
5.Restaurant Recommendation Five: BocaNariz
Restaurant Overview
BocaNariz combines Chilean local ingredients with international cooking techniques in a modern seafood restaurant. The focus is not only on freshness but also on artistic presentation of dishes. It is a high-end choice for Santiago food enthusiasts.
Location and Environment
Located in the trendy Bellavista neighborhood, the restaurant is elegant with a modern minimalist design. It offers bright dining areas and an open kitchen where diners can watch chefs at work.
Signature Dishes
- Chilean King Crab Salad: Paired with organic vegetables and special lemon sauce, fresh and light in taste.
- Charcoal Grilled Squid with Herb Oil: Crispy outside, tender inside, with a unique flavor.
- Seafood Platter with Seaweed Sauce: A variety of seafood combined to present a rich and layered taste experience.
Why Choose BocaNariz
BocaNariz balances deliciousness and visual enjoyment, perfect for diners who seek quality and innovative cuisine. With professional service and a comfortable environment, it is an excellent choice for special occasion celebrations.
Restaurant Reservation Platforms Recommendation
We recommend using mainstream restaurant booking platforms such as Booking.com, OpenTable, Ctrip, Meituan, and TripAdvisor. These platforms offer convenient booking processes, multilingual support, and allow you to compare prices and check reviews to ensure a smoother dining experience.
