Ali Pacha

La Paz, Bolivia

Translating as 'plant universe' in the Aymara Indigenous language, chef Sebastián Quiroga's Ali Pacha, tucked down a narrow cobbled lane in La Paz's downtown, is Bolivia's first (and longtime favourite) fine-dining vegan establishment. A small bar welcomes diners, where you can kick off with a singani-based cocktail. Quiroga, who trained at Gustu, takes sustainability seriously and only works with Bolivian products on his tasting menus. Roots, grains and tubers – many found high in the mountains – are cooked using ultra-local techniques including with a huatia, an Andean underground earth-oven which Quiroga learned to use by watching his parents as a child. Fruits, seeds and fungi also make an appearance, some of which you've likely never seen or tasted before, the likes of lucama and cupuaçu. He also turns his attention to the traditional quinoa grain, playing with methods to create original textures and flavours. Afterwards, take a freshly brewed coffee in Ali Pacha's café upstairs. Oh and don't pass up a slice of the vegan sourdough panettone.

Key Information

• Tasting menu from $30
• Lunch: Mon – Sun, Dinner: Wed – Sun
• 591 7720 1433
• Visit Ali Pacha's Website

Location

Calle Colon 1306 esquina Potosí, Centro Histórico, La Paz, La Paz