Restaurants in El Chalten

For a casual town where everyone wears hiking boots, El Chaltén has surprisingly good dining options. Climbers gather during a stormy day at Patagonicus, Güemes at Andreas Madsen (tel. 02962/493025). Patagonicus serves mostly pizza and enormous salads in a woodsy dining area with fair prices; no credit cards accepted. It's a good spot for an afternoon coffee. Fuegia, San Martín 342 (tel. 02962/493243), has an eclectic, global menu including coconut chicken with cashews and excellent salads. There are also good vegetarian options. In a ramshackle old house loaded with character, Ruca Mahuida, at Lionel Terray 55 (tel. 02962/493018), has the feel of an old alpine hut. The food is pure Patagonian, with stews, trout, and hearty pastas to fill you up after a day on the trail. Diners gather around a handful of tables, making this a great spot to make new friends. Reservations are recommended. For a funky scene with cool music and creative food, head to Estepa, at the corner of Cerro Solo and Antonio Rojo (tel. 02962/493069). The lamb in soft mint sauce, pizzas, and pumpkin sorrentinos are superb. The restaurant at the Senderos Hostería is also excellent, and often offers wine-tasting evenings with a visiting sommelier.