Confiteria Torres

"You’ll find a number of confiterías selling coffee, tea, pastries, and sandwiches around Santiago, but for a taste of the old world, locals head to Confiteria Torres, the city’s oldest restaurant, founded in 1867. With white tablecloths, mahogany walls, lace curtains, and dapper waiters, Confiteria Torres will transport you to the Santiago of old. Head there for a simple lunch of classic Chilean fare or one of the best afternoon teas in the city, and be sure to check out the pictures of the famous regulars hung along the walls. Look closely and you’ll notice many of them are former presidents. One such former president, Barros Luco, even got a steak and cheese sandwich named after him for his loyal patronage — ask for the Presidente Barros to give it a try." - Bill Esparza, Hillary Eaton

"One theory claims that it was invented at Santiago’s oldest restaurant, Confiteria Torres. They reportedly packaged their signature libation in recycled bottles of Anis del Mono, a Spanish liqueur with a long-tailed monkey on the label." - Zoe Baillargeon

"Lunch in Santiago's Oldest Restaurant Founded in 1879, Confitería Torres is Santiago 's oldest restaurant still functioning, and a popular lunch destination. Housed in the Palacio Íñiguez on the stately Alameda avenue, the restaurant was saved from closing nearly a decade ago and completely restored to its former glory, with green-and-white hand-painted tile floors, lace curtains, and elegant waiters. It's located near the government palace, and frequented by many politicians and presidents; former president Barros Lucos always ordered a steak and cheese sandwich here (the sandwich was christened with his name). The menu sticks to traditional Chilean cuisine and the bartender whips up some delicious pisco sours. Crowded at lunch time so reservations a good idea. Alameda 1570, Santiago Centro Phone: 56 (2) 2688 0751"