Paraguay, the heart of South America, offers a unique blend of Guaraní indigenous culture and Spanish colonial heritage. From the vibrant capital of Asunción along the Paraguay River to the historic Jesuit Missions and the stunning natural beauty of the Chaco region, this landlocked nation provides an authentic South American experience away from typical tourist crowds.
Paraguayan cuisine is hearty, meat-centered, and deeply rooted in Guaraní traditions fused with Spanish and immigrant influences. Mandioca (cassava) accompanies virtually every meal, beef asado is the national obsession, and the country's flagship foods — chipa (cheese bread) and sopa paraguaya (savory cornbread) — are uniquely Paraguayan inventions unknown elsewhere in the world.
Must-try dishes
Iconic dishes that define Paraguay.
Sopa Paraguaya
Despite the name meaning 'Paraguayan soup,' this is a dense, savory cornbread made with corn flour, cheese, onions, and eggs. The iconic national dish was accidentally created when a cook added too much cornmeal to a soup.
Where to try: Lido Bar (Palma y Chile), La Herencia, any traditional Paraguayan restaurant
Price: $2-8
Chipa
Ring-shaped cheese bread made from mandioca flour, queso paraguayo, and eggs, baked in a wood-fired tatakua oven. Sold by vendors throughout Paraguay from dawn, chipa is the ultimate Paraguayan snack and breakfast.
Where to try: Street vendors throughout Asunción, especially near Terminal bus station from 5 AM
Price: $0.50-1
Tereré
Paraguay's national drink — cold water (often infused with lemon or mint) poured over yerba mate in a guampa vessel and drunk through a metal bombilla straw. Shared communally, it is central to daily Paraguayan social life.
Where to try: Tereré Bar Cultural (Palma 541), prepared by virtually every Paraguayan you meet
Price: $1-3
Surubí al Horno
Oven-baked surubí river catfish, one of the largest freshwater fish in South America, seasoned with local herbs and served with mandioca. A specialty that showcases Paraguay's exceptional river fisheries.
Where to try: Bar San Roque, Costanera fish restaurants, riverside towns along the Paraguay River
Price: $12-25
Bori Bori
Traditional Paraguayan soup with small corn flour and cheese balls (bori) simmered in chicken broth with vegetables. A comforting everyday dish that represents home cooking at its best.
Where to try: La Herencia (Capitán Lombardo 2321), home cooking restaurants
Price: $5-10
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Tierra Colorada Gastro
Upscale restaurant showcasing modern interpretations of traditional Paraguayan cuisine using local ingredients. The tasting menu highlights regional flavors with creative presentations. Wine cellar features excellent South American selections.
Mariscal López c/ Brasilia, Asunción, Paraguay
Lido Bar
Historic restaurant and cultural landmark serving authentic Paraguayan cuisine since 1940s. The extensive menu features all traditional dishes. Popular with locals and tourists alike, offering genuine taste of Paraguay in casual atmosphere.
Palma y Chile, Asunción, Paraguay
El Mundo de la Pizza
Local pizza chain with consistent quality and reasonable prices. Variety of toppings and sizes accommodate different appetites. Delivery and takeout very popular with locals.
Multiple locations, main: España 1020, Asunción, Paraguay
Chipería Tradicional (Various Locations)
Street vendors throughout Asunción sell fresh chipa, the iconic Paraguayan cheese bread. Best eaten warm in the morning. Look for vendors with large baskets calling 'Chipa!'
Throughout Asunción, especially near bus terminals
Café Literario
Cozy bookstore café with artistic atmosphere. Excellent coffee, homemade pastries, and light lunch options. Regular poetry readings and live music events. Free WiFi makes it popular with remote workers.
Dr. Morra 265, Asunción, Paraguay
Il Capo
Asunción's premier Italian restaurant offering authentic cuisine in elegant surroundings. Extensive wine list and impeccable service. The pasta is made fresh daily and the imported ingredients ensure quality matching European standards.
Aviadores del Chaco 2050, Asunción, Paraguay
Bolsi Restó Bar
Trendy restaurant in Villa Morra offering eclectic menu with Asian, Mediterranean, and Latin influences. Modern décor and craft cocktails attract younger crowd. Excellent brunch on weekends.
España 1468, Asunción, Paraguay
Burger Joint
Gourmet burger spot with creative combinations and quality ingredients. Hand-cut fries and craft beer selection. Casual atmosphere popular with young professionals.
Senador Long 831, Asunción, Paraguay
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
Café
La Vienesa
Classic Asunción café serving pastries, sandwiches, and light meals since 1948. Multiple locations but original downtown shop retains vintage charm. Famous for medialunas and afternoon tea service.
Alberdi 245, Asunción, Paraguay
London Coffee
Small chain café with reliable coffee and pastries. Multiple locations around Asunción offer convenient stops. Comfortable seating and free WiFi.
Multiple locations
Japanese
Ramen Yabai
Authentic ramen shop bringing Japanese flavors to Asunción. Small menu focused on perfecting traditional ramen styles. The tonkotsu broth simmers for 18 hours. Counter seating provides view of kitchen.
Peru 1120, Asunción, Paraguay
Sushi Pop
Casual sushi restaurant with creative rolls and Japanese favorites. All-you-can-eat option available. Modern décor and quick service.
Quesada 4845, Asunción, Paraguay
Steakhouse
Paulista Grill
All-you-can-eat Brazilian rodizio featuring endless parade of grilled meats. Excellent salad bar with traditional Brazilian sides. Popular for business lunches and celebrations.
Aviadores del Chaco 2100, Asunción, Paraguay
Tio Lucas Parrilla
Family-owned steakhouse serving quality beef and traditional sides. Welcoming atmosphere and consistent quality make this a local favorite. The chimichurri is legendary.
Eligio Ayala 1611, Asunción, Paraguay
American
Mburicao Restaurante
Refined dining experience featuring fusion of South American flavors with modern techniques. Beautiful garden setting provides romantic atmosphere. The chef sources ingredients from local producers, supporting Paraguayan agriculture.
Mariscal Estigarribia 1034, Asunción, Paraguay
Argentine
Hacienda Las Palomas
Rustic restaurant specializing in beef and traditional grill. Large portions and countryside atmosphere despite urban location. Live folk music on weekends adds to authentic experience.
Aviadores del Chaco 3030, Asunción, Paraguay
Argentine Café
Café Martinez
Argentine café chain offering quality coffee and extensive menu of sandwiches and pastries. Reliable option with several locations. Good for business meetings or studying.
Shopping del Sol, Asunción, Paraguay
Chinese
Restaurant Taiwan
Long-established Chinese restaurant serving Cantonese and Taiwanese dishes. Large menu with vegetarian options. Popular for takeout and delivery.
Eligio Ayala 1728, Asunción, Paraguay
Crêperie
Chez Marilou
Charming crêperie serving sweet and savory French crêpes. Cozy atmosphere with outdoor patio. Excellent coffee and fresh juices. Popular brunch destination.
Brasil 1030, Asunción, Paraguay
Empanadas
Empanada Stand - Pettirossi
Popular empanada vendor near the airport serving fresh-fried empanadas with various fillings. Open 24/7 serving late-night crowds and early morning travelers.
Avenida Pettirossi, Asunción, Paraguay
Food Court
Paseo La Galería Food Court
Modern shopping mall food court with multiple café and restaurant options. Air-conditioned space popular for afternoon breaks. Various international and local chains.
Avenida Santa Teresa, Asunción, Paraguay
French
Délice Patisserie
Upscale French-style patisserie with exquisite pastries and cakes. Beautiful presentations and authentic French techniques. Perfect for special occasion treats or elegant afternoon tea.
San Martín 1244, Asunción, Paraguay
Fresh Fruit
Fruit Vendor Carts
Colorful fruit carts throughout the city sell fresh tropical fruits, fruit cups, and juices. Try local specialties like mamón, guavira, and mango with lime and salt.
Throughout central Asunción
Fried Snacks
Mandioca Frita Carts
Mobile carts serving freshly fried mandioca (cassava) with cheese. This beloved Paraguayan snack is perfect for afternoon munchies. Look for the distinctive yellow carts.
Various locations in Asunción
Market Food
Mercado 4 Food Section
The food area of Mercado 4 offers authentic local dishes at rock-bottom prices. Try traditional soups, grilled meats, and tropical fruit juices. Adventurous eaters only.
Pettirossi, Asunción, Paraguay
Mixed Street Food
Costanera Food Carts
Collection of food carts along the Costanera serving grilled meats, choripan, and traditional snacks. Especially lively on weekend evenings. Great spot to try multiple items.
Avenida Costanera, Asunción, Paraguay
Paraguayan
Bar San Roque
Neighborhood parrilla known for excellent grilled meats and local atmosphere. No-frills décor but outstanding quality beef at reasonable prices. Popular Sunday lunch spot for families.
San Roque, Asunción, Paraguay
Paraguayan Home Cooking
La Herencia
Simple restaurant serving home-style Paraguayan food in family atmosphere. Daily specials feature traditional dishes. Excellent value and authentic flavors.
Capitán Lombardo 2321, Asunción, Paraguay
Pub Food
Talleyrand
English-style pub serving burgers, wings, and bar food. Multiple TVs show international sports. Good craft beer selection and lively atmosphere.
Av. Brasilia y Boggiani, Asunción, Paraguay
Sandwiches
Lomitería El Gordo
No-frills sandwich shop famous for enormous lomitos (steak sandwiches). Local institution open late for after-party crowd. Cash only but unbeatable value.
Rca. Argentina 1350, Asunción, Paraguay
Spanish
Mesón Español
Casual Spanish restaurant serving tapas, paella, and sangria. Friendly service and affordable prices. Popular happy hour draws after-work crowd.
Estrella y Palma, Asunción, Paraguay
Specialty Coffee
Café Bohemio
Third-wave coffee shop featuring Paraguayan single-origin beans. Knowledgeable baristas and various brewing methods. Minimalist décor and outdoor seating. No WiFi policy encourages conversation.
Teniente Fariña 1028, Asunción, Paraguay
Traditional Beverages
Tereré Bar Cultural
Unique bar dedicated to tereré, Paraguay's national cold herb drink. Choose from numerous herb blends (yuyos). Light snacks available. Cultural hub with local art displays and live music.
Palma 541, Asunción, Paraguay
Street food
Local flavours at affordable prices.
Chipa
Paraguay's most beloved street food — warm cheese bread made from mandioca flour sold by vendors carrying large baskets throughout the day. The call of 'Chipa!' from vendors is the sound of Paraguay waking up.
Find it at: Throughout Asunción, especially near Terminal bus station and along main avenues from 5-10 AM
Empanadas
Deep-fried or baked pastry pockets filled with seasoned beef, chicken, or cheese. Paraguayan empanadas are slightly different from Argentine versions — slightly thicker and often fried crispy.
Find it at: Empanada Stand near Pettirossi Airport (24/7), Mercado 4 food section, street vendors throughout the city
Mbeju
Crispy mandioca starch and cheese pancakes cooked on a flat griddle — a traditional Guaraní food that remains popular as street food and at the Costanera food carts on weekends.
Find it at: Costanera food carts (Friday-Sunday evenings), Mercado 4, traditional market vendors
Mandioca Frita con Queso
Freshly fried cassava sticks topped with melted cheese — Paraguay's answer to french fries and a beloved afternoon snack from the distinctive yellow mobile carts.
Find it at: Yellow carts throughout central Asunción, typically 3-8 PM
Food markets
Where locals shop and graze.
Mercado 4 Food Section
The food area of Latin America's largest informal market serves authentic Paraguayan cuisine at the lowest prices in the city. Find sopa paraguaya plates for $2, fresh juices for $1, and traditional soups with large portions.
Hours: Daily 6:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Mercado Municipal de Asunción
Central covered market near the waterfront with fresh produce, spices, meat vendors, and local food stalls. Less chaotic than Mercado 4, with better-organized displays of local agricultural products.
Hours: Daily 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Encarnación Municipal Market
Border city market offering a fascinating mix of Paraguayan and Argentine products, fresh river fish, regional produce, and the cheapest prices in the country due to cross-border commerce.
Hours: Daily 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
Lunch (12-2 PM) is the main meal of the day — most restaurants offer a menú del día (set lunch menu) for $5-8 that includes soup, main course, and drink
Sunday asados typically don't start until noon and can last until evening — if invited, don't arrive before the host lights the fire
Tap water is not safe to drink — always ask for agua sin gas (still bottled water) at restaurants
Cash preferred at traditional restaurants and market food stalls; major hotels and upscale restaurants accept cards
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $5-12/meal | Street food vendors, Mercado 4, local parrillas |
| Mid-range | $15-30/meal | Sit-down restaurants like Bolsi, Bar San Roque, La Vienesa |
| Upscale | $50-100+/meal | Fine dining at Tierra Colorada Gastro, Mburicao, or Il Capo |