Santiago, Chile’s vibrant capital, isn’t just a city of skyscrapers, art galleries, and mountain views — it’s also a food lover’s paradise. And the best part? You don’t need to spend a fortune to eat well here. From bustling local markets to hidden street food gems, Santiago offers countless opportunities to enjoy delicious, budget-friendly meals that reflect the rich flavors of Chilean culture. Whether you're a backpacker, a student, or just a smart traveler, finding affordable restaurants in Santiago is easy — if you know where to look.
In this guide, we’ll uncover the best budget eats in Santiago, helping you savor the city without breaking the bank.

At the heart of Santiago’s culinary scene lies Mercado Central, one of the city's oldest and most famous food markets. While tourist-focused restaurants inside the market can be pricey, the secret is to venture around the edges where local vendors offer fresh, affordable seafood dishes.

You can feast on a hearty bowl of paila marina (Chilean seafood stew) or a plate of ceviche for a fraction of the cost compared to fancier establishments. The experience of dining among bustling market stalls, surrounded by colorful fish displays and shouting vendors, adds an authentic flair to your meal.

Budget Tip: Head to places like Donde Augusto’s annex or La Piojera-style vendors around the market perimeter for local prices and hearty portions.

If you want to eat like a true Santiaguino without overspending, Fuente Alemana is a must-visit. This iconic eatery is famous for its giant Chilean sandwiches, including the mouthwatering lomito (slow-cooked pork sandwich) and chacarero (steak with green beans, tomato, and chili).

Not only are the sandwiches large enough to share, but they also come packed with flavor at a very reasonable price. The vintage diner vibe and quick service make it a popular stop for locals looking for a hearty, affordable meal.

Budget Tip: Order the lomito completo — pork, avocado, tomato, and mayonnaise — for a filling lunch that costs less than many sit-down meals.

For an immersive budget food experience, head to La Vega Central, Santiago’s sprawling fruit and vegetable market — and one of the city's best-kept secrets for cheap eats. Tucked among the produce stands are small comedor-style eateries serving Chilean classics like cazuela (beef stew), porotos granados (bean stew), and freshly made empanadas.

You’ll find hearty meals here for just a few dollars, often served with a smile by local families who have been operating these tiny kitchens for generations. La Vega Central is more than a place to eat — it's an authentic slice of Santiago life.

Budget Tip: Try a fresh juice (“jugos naturales”) from one of the stands — they’re cheap, delicious, and perfect for beating Santiago’s summer heat.

Santiago’s street food scene is a goldmine for travelers looking to eat cheaply and well. Among the most popular street snacks are sopaipillas — deep-fried discs of pumpkin dough, often topped with spicy pebre salsa — and completos, Chile’s famous loaded hot dogs.

You’ll find vendors on nearly every busy street corner, especially in areas like Bellavista, Centro, and near metro stations. For less than $2 USD, you can grab a satisfying snack that keeps you fueled while exploring the city.

Budget Tip: Look for vendors with longer lines — a sure sign of freshness and better quality.

If you think affordable eating in Santiago means only fast food, think again. El Huerto, located in the Providencia neighborhood, proves that you can enjoy healthy, sustainable, and delicious meals without overspending.

Known for its vegetarian and vegan-friendly menu, El Huerto offers hearty daily lunch specials (known as "menu del día") at reasonable prices. Dishes like quinoa salads, lentil burgers, and vegetable curries show off Chile’s rich agricultural produce in creative ways.

Budget Tip: Go for the lunch menu, which usually includes a starter, main course, dessert, and juice — offering incredible value for health-conscious travelers.

Eating well in Santiago doesn’t have to mean spending big. The city’s lively markets, iconic sandwich shops, vibrant street food stands, and healthy cafés ensure you can enjoy delicious and authentic Chilean flavors without blowing your budget. From seafood feasts at Mercado Central to sopaipillas on a street corner, these best budget eats in Santiago that offer a real taste of the city’s culture and hospitality — and prove that great food experiences are accessible to everyone.

So next time you’re planning your Santiago itinerary, rest assured: your taste buds — and your wallet — are both in for a treat.