La Paz City is, without a doubt, the most chaotic city in Bolivia. But don’t get me wrong! As a local paceña, I thrive on the daily hustle and bustle that makes this city so alive. I even find joy in the minibus-clogged streets and the endless honking during peak hours (crazy, I know!). From gliding through the skies on the teleféricos to savoring mouth-watering street food and sipping some of the world’s best coffee, the city that touches the clouds truly has a little bit of everything.

When it comes to food, La Paz does not disappoint. It’s packed with some of the best places to eat, and the options are surprisingly inexpensive. Bolivia’s (de-facto) capital is a dream for thrifty travelers watching their wallets. If you’re on a budget and want to discover some of the city’s hidden, non-touristy spots that won’t break the bank, read on—we’ve got you covered!

1.Breakfast @ Api Happy

Time: 9:00 AM
La Paz’ weather is… well, unpredictable. One moment you’re basking in the sun, the next you’re shivering, and by 8:00 pm, you’re rummaging through your bag for gloves. So, how do you survive this weather rollercoaster? The answer is simple: start your day at Api Happy.

Api, a beloved paceño drink, has a smoothie-like consistency and is packed with cozy, festive flavors. Made with cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, orange zest, pineapple juice, purple corn, and sugar, it’s served steaming hot and tastes like Christmas in a cup. Thick enough to eat with a spoon, it’s the ultimate comfort beverage for La Paz’s chilly mornings.

And the perfect pairing? A cheesy pastel—a golden, cheese-filled empanada sprinkled with powdered sugar. This delightful combo is guaranteed to warm your heart (and your insides).

Where to go: Api Happy (Av. Montenegro 922, La Paz), or Any Appy Happy in town.

2.A Cup of freshly squeezed Oh-Jay

Time: 10:00 AM
After logging 20,000+ steps (not bad for a Tuesday, right?), you’re bound to work up a thirst. The perfect remedy? A freshly squeezed Oh-Jay from a caserita in San Miguel.

Oranges are a staple in La Paz, and for good reason. Packed with nutritional value, they’re immunity-boosting, age-defying, cholesterol-lowering, and even cancer-preventing powerhouses. Plus, nothing beats the refreshing sweetness of freshly squeezed juice after a long day on your feet.

The best part? You don’t have to look far to quench your thirst. Juice stands are scattered across the city, so finding a glass of liquid sunshine is as easy as spotting a minibus.

Where to go: Look for the juice stands along Av. Montenegro, La Paz.

3. Mid-day Snack @ Castores + a bottle of H2O

Time: 10:30 AM

Salteñas are like empanadas—but better. Think of them as the 2.0 version: juicy, spicy, and oh-my-god-tasty. These plump, football-shaped pastries are stuffed with a savory stew-like filling of beef or chicken, mixed with veggies and a rich blend of spices.

Perfect as a midmorning snack, salteñas are satisfying and flavorful. But beware! The juicy interior is known for its tendency to spill, so approach with caution—or risk a stained shirt (worth it, though).

Where to go: Try them at Gabriel René Moreno 1391, La Paz.

4. Lunch @ Popular
Time: 1:00 PM

La Paz might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of culinary hotspots—but trust me, it should be. This city is rapidly transforming into a foodie mecca, and restaurants like Popular are leading the charge.

Nestled in the heart of the city, just behind the iconic San Francisco Church, Popular offers an unforgettable dining experience. Their three-course tasting menu, updated weekly, is a celebration of Bolivia’s incredible ecological and climatic diversity. Each dish is a creative, delicious tribute to the country’s unique flavors and ingredients.

Only thing? No reservations required—but you’ll want to get here early to make sure your name is on the list (plan accordingly and maybe skip the salteñas the first day!). It’s a first-come, first-served situation, and the tasting menu even includes vegetarian options, making it accessible for all food lovers.

Where to go: Murillo 826, La Paz

5. Quick Cortado @ Typica
Time: 4:00 PM

If you’re in the mood for the perfect afternoon pick-me-up, Typica is the spot. While there are several Typicas around La Paz, our favorite is the one located in the Obrajes neighborhood. This charming coffee shop is ideal for a 4:00 PM cortado, and it’s a true haven for coffee lovers.

Not only is it pet-friendly, but it also boasts the best spot for people-watching in the area. The spacious, aesthetically pleasing atmosphere has a cozy, homey vibe, making you feel like you’re sipping coffee in your grandma’s living room. And the coffee? It’s some of the best you’ll find in La Paz.

If you’re a true coffee aficionado, Typica should be at the top of your list.

Where to go: Obrajes, La Paz/ or really, any Typica in La Paz

6. Dinner @ Ancestral

Time: 8:00 PM

Ancestral is breaking barriers and redefining food in La Paz. Recently recognized in the Top 50 Restaurants in the World, Ancestral offers a truly exceptional dining experience that combines Bolivia’s rich culinary heritage with modern techniques.

Located in the vibrant Achumani neighborhood at Calle 10 de Achumani Maria F. Goya #135, Ancestral celebrates indigenous ingredients like quinoa, chuño, and native potatoes, transforming them into bold, innovative dishes. The seasonal menu is a tribute to Bolivia’s diverse regions, offering a creative take on traditional flavors.

With its cozy yet modern atmosphere, Ancestral provides the perfect setting to enjoy a meal that’s as culturally enriching as it is delicious. If you’re looking for a truly memorable dining experience, Ancestral is a must-visit.

Where to go: Calle 10 de Achumani Maria F. Goya #135, La Paz, Bolivia.

There you have it! Some of our favorite options

From cozy coffee spots to world-class dining experiences, La Paz is truly a culinary gem. Whether you’re sipping on a cortado at Typica, indulging in a salteña, or dining at Ancestral—a top contender in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants—there’s no shortage of delicious discoveries to be made in this bustling city.

So next time you’re in La Paz, be sure to check out these spots for a truly unforgettable food journey!