The most beloved traditional restaurant at the port — fresh grilled fish, squid, and the Uruguayan chivito sandwich (steak, egg, ham, cheese) at reasonable prices. The most authentic local dining on the Peninsula; always busy with Uruguayans.
Why It Belongs on the List
El Palenque at the Puerto de Punta del Este is the anchor of the port restaurant row — an unpretentious, always-busy spot serving the freshest grilled fish (caught by the boats moored outside), squid, shellfish, and the Uruguayan national sandwich, the chivito (steak, egg, ham, cheese, and salad). It is the most authentic dining experience on the Peninsula and the most beloved by Uruguayans themselves — the antidote to the high-design La Barra scene. Walk the port beforehand to see the sea lions that congregate around the fishing boats.
What Stands Out
- Most authentic traditional restaurant on the Peninsula
- Located at the port
- Known for the freshest grilled fish
- Chivito — Uruguay’s national sandwich
- Strong on squid and shellfish
- Reasonable prices
- Popular with locals — always busy
- Sea lions often visible at the nearby port