Where do chefs eat? With Sebastián Prieto in San Pedro de Atacama
Cooking in the middle of Chile ’s Atacama Desert may seem like a challenge, but chef Sebastián Prieto sees the opportunity as a privilege. Born in Peru, he runs the kitchen at Awasi Atacama , one of South America’s most exclusive hotels.
The chef's cuisine reflects his experiences in renowned restaurants and a refined technical blend of ancestral ingredients and what he calls “wisdom of the surroundings” — a commitment to the producers who plant, harvest and fish.
When he’s not in Awasi Atacama , Sebastián takes time to explore the surrounding desert . Below, he shares his favorite places to eat in San Pedro de Atacama , the most popular base for travelers heading to this coveted Chilean region.
Check out 5 restaurants to visit in San Pedro de Atacama: Antai RestaurantWith a solid concept focused on local products, Antai offers cuisine that values the freshness of desert ingredients. The welcoming atmosphere and attentive service complement an experience that combines tradition and modernity.
I recommend this restaurant because its cuisine is marked by respect for seasonality and preparations that balance flavor and simplicity, reflecting the essence of the region.
Antai Restaurant: Domingo Atienza 523, San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta, Chile / Tel.: +56 9 3426-1475 / Opening hours: every day, from 6pm to 10:30pm.
Ephedra
Located in the community of Ayllu de Poconche, on the outskirts of San Pedro de Atacama, Ephedra offers a modern approach focused on tasting menus. The experience is led by visually sophisticated signature dishes that explore contemporary techniques and local flavors.
To give you an idea, one of the dishes last season included broad beans, native potatoes, onions, carrots and garden flowers, all seasoned with a vegetable pumpkin miso glaze. The minimalist setting and discreet service make dinner a gastronomic journey, with each stage offering a new interpretation of the ingredients from Atacama.
Ephedra: Ayllu de Poconche (Espaço Pirka), Sitio n°7, San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta, Chile / Tel.: +56 94268-6139 / Opening hours: Tuesday to Thursday, 6pm to 11:30pm; Friday and Saturday, 1pm to 4pm and 7pm to 11:30pm; Sunday, 1pm to 4pm.
La Manada Pizzeria
Pizzería La Manada is a relaxed space, ideal for meeting friends and perfect for happy hour. The menu focuses on artisanal pizzas prepared with care and quality ingredients.
The informal atmosphere, outdoor tables and good music make the pizzeria a light and pleasant meeting point, great for relaxing and enjoying the city's peaceful rhythm.
Pizzeria La Manada: Calle Toconao 475, San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta, Chile / Tel.: +56 9 4060-7269 / Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 4pm to 11pm.
UnaiView this post on Instagram
I know the work of chef Juan Pablo Mardones , who for years was in charge of the kitchen at Awasi, up close, and I know that his current proposal at the Unai restaurant reflects a standard of excellence worthy of the luxury hotel and restaurant association Relais & Châteaux — both in concept and execution.
The restaurant, located in Ayllu de Solor, values Andean ingredients with sophistication and deep respect for the desert culture, creating an original cuisine, rooted in the territory, which already deserves to be highlighted. You must reserve a table through the official website .
Unai: Aguas Calientes 207, Ayllu de Solor, San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta, Chile / Tel.: +56 9 34564759 / Opening hours: Wednesday to Monday, from 6:30 pm, by reservation.
The Franchising CompanyWith a welcoming atmosphere and French cuisine, La Franchutería is an artisanal bakery that’s the perfect place to start your day. The menu includes specialty coffees, fresh croissants and sourdough breads , all prepared with attention to detail.
I also highlight the inviting atmosphere, with outdoor tables and a family atmosphere that transforms breakfast or brunch into a moment of relaxation in the center of San Pedro. It is ideal for going with family and friends.
La Franchutería: Gustavo Le Paige 527, San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta, Chile / Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 5am to 9pm.
Atacama: desert has multiple scenarios, from dunes to thermal lagoons
