Paraguay’s 3-Day Foodie Travel Guide: Savor the Authentic Flavors of Asunción and Encarnación

Embark on a Paraguayan culinary journey and savor the local flavors over three days. From traditional stews to street snacks, this guide covers restaurant recommendations, night-market itineraries, and tips to avoid common dining pitfalls.

City Food Overview

Paraguay’s culinary culture has been deeply influenced by South American indigenous peoples as well as Spanish and Portuguese immigrants, with meat, beans, and corn forming the core of its cuisine. The flavors tend to be bold, often enhanced with chili peppers and spices. Among the most famous local dishes are “sopa paraguaya” (corn soup), “chipa” (corn bread), and “carne asada” (grilled meat). Eating habits remain largely family-oriented, with lunch being the most important meal of the day, typically enjoyed between 12:00 and 14:00.

In urban areas, dining hubs cluster around the city center, the old quarter, and near markets—perfect for exploring on foot. It’s best to visit at midday or in the early evening, both to catch the locals’ eating rhythm and to avoid the hottest part of the day.

Must-Try List

1. Sopa Paraguaya (Paraguayan Corn Soup)

Recommendation Rating: ★★★★★ Price Range: Approximately 15,000–25,000 PYG Common Pitfall: Some restaurants substitute it with other types of batter, resulting in a markedly different texture.

This is one of Paraguay’s most iconic traditional dishes, made from cornmeal, eggs, cheese, and more. Its rich, dense texture pairs beautifully with vegetables or pickled sides.

2. Chipa (Corn Bread)

Recommendation Rating: ★★★★ Price Range: Around 5,000–10,000 PYG per piece Common Pitfall: Certain places add excessive sugar, compromising the authentic flavor.

A fermented bread crafted from cornmeal, Chipa boasts a crispy crust and tender interior, best enjoyed with butter or chili sauce.

3. Carne Asada (Grilled Meat)

Recommendation Rating: ★★★★★ Price Range: Roughly 80,000–150,000 PYG per serving Common Pitfall: Some eateries use frozen meat, which can dull the taste.

A beloved staple among Paraguayans, this dish features fresh beef slow-grilled over charcoal, served with mashed potatoes, rice, or salad.

4. Puchero (Stew)

Recommendation Rating: ★★★★ Price Range: Approximately 60,000–100,000 PYG Common Pitfall: Some restaurants skimp on ingredients, affecting the overall flavor.

A hearty traditional stew loaded with beef, beans, carrots, potatoes, and more, it’s especially comforting during winter months.

5. Chicha (Corn Beer)

Recommendation Rating: ★★★★ Price Range: About 10,000–20,000 PYG per glass Common Pitfall: Certain bars add artificial flavorings, detracting from the drink’s natural character.

This sweet, low-alcohol brew is made from fermented corn and pairs wonderfully with spicy dishes.

6. Arepa (Corn Cake)

Recommendation Rating: ★★★★ Price Range: Roughly 8,000–15,000 PYG per piece Common Pitfall: Some fast-food joints replace cornmeal with wheat flour.

Similar to Colombia’s arepa but softer and chewier, it’s ideal for stuffing with meat, cheese, or vegetables.

7. Empanadas (Filled Pastries)

Recommendation Rating: ★★★★ Price Range: Approximately 10,000–20,000 PYG per piece Common Pitfall: Street vendors sometimes use stale fillings.

Crispy fried pastries wrapped in dough and filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, they’re a quintessential street food.

8. Ceviche (Marinated Raw Fish)

Recommendation Rating: ★★★☆ Price Range: Roughly 50,000–90,000 PYG Common Pitfall: Some restaurants serve less-than-fresh seafood.

Though not a native Paraguayan specialty, ceviche is available in coastal cities like Encarnación, featuring only the freshest catches.

9. Yerba Mate (Mate Tea)

Recommendation Rating: ★★★★ Price Range: Around 5,000–10,000 PYG per cup Common Pitfall: Certain sellers blend in cheaper teas.

A popular herbal infusion known for its energizing effects, it’s traditionally sipped from a metal gourd.

10. Dulce de Leche (Caramelized Milk Spread)

Recommendation Rating: ★★★★ Price Range: Approximately 8,000–15,000 PYG per serving Common Pitfall: Some dessert shops use artificial sweeteners.

A versatile spread used in cakes, ice cream, or straight on toast, it’s a must-try treat.

11. Tucupi (Cassava Soup)

Recommendation Rating: ★★★ Price Range: Roughly 40,000–70,000 PYG Common Pitfall: Some restaurants substitute cassava with starch.

A thick, uniquely flavored broth simmered from cassava roots.

12. Guasu (Meat Stew)

Recommendation Rating: ★★★★ Price Range: Approximately 60,000–100,000 PYG Common Pitfall: Certain eateries reduce the variety of ingredients.

A hearty stew combining beef, beans, and vegetables, perfect for chilly days.

Restaurant and Neighborhood Recommendations

Local Eateries

1. Restaurante La Casona

Address: Not publicly disclosed Recommendation Rating: ★★★★★

Tucked away in the old town, this hidden gem serves authentic Paraguayan classics, particularly renowned for its Sopa Paraguaya and Carne Asada. Reservations are advised to avoid long waits.

How to Avoid Getting Disappointed: Opt for spots frequented by locals—they usually offer reliable quality.