Completo: The Infamous Hot Dogs

Santiago, the bustling capital of Chile, has developed a reputation for its vibrant street food scene, with the humble hot dog ... locally known as the “completo” ... standing at the center of this gastronomic landscape. Far from the typical American version, Santiago’s hot dogs have evolved into unique culinary creations, packed with local flavors, rich in history, and beloved by locals and tourists alike.

A Brief History of the Completo

The completo traces its roots back to the early 20th century, when the American hot dog made its way to Chile. Local vendors quickly adapted the concept, adding their own twist with an array of toppings that suited Chilean tastes. Avocado (palta), chopped tomatoes, sauerkraut (chucrut), mayonnaise, and a range of spicy sauces transformed the simple sausage-in-a-bun into a hearty and flavorful meal. Over the decades, the completo became a staple of Santiago’s fast food culture, available in small neighborhood “fuentes de soda” (diner-style eateries) and bustling street carts throughout the city.

Where to Find the Best Hot Dogs in Santiago

• Fuente Alemana: Considered by many as the gold standard for completos, Fuente Alemana is a Santiago institution. Their generously sized hot dogs are topped with fresh ingredients and served with a smile in a lively, vintage setting.

• Dominó: With multiple locations around the city, Dominó is famous for its extensive menu of hot dog variations. Their “italiano” complete ... with avocado, tomato, and mayonnaise ... perfectly captures the Chilean flavor palette.

• La Fuente Suiza: Known for its homemade mayonnaise and freshly baked buns, La Fuente Suiza offers a more artisanal take on the classic hot dog, attracting both locals and visitors searching for top-quality ingredients.

• Doggi's: For a quick and affordable completo, Doggi’s is a popular fast-food chain with outlets across Santiago, serving up consistent and satisfying hot dogs for those on the go.

The Most Unique Hot Dog Creations

While the “italiano” ... named for the colors of the Italian flag ... remains the most popular, Santiago’s hot dog scene is brimming with creative options. Some of the most unique completos include:

• Completo a lo Pobre: Inspired by the classic Chilean dish “bistec a lo pobre,” this hot dog is topped with caramelized onions, a fried egg, and sometimes even French fries.

• Completo Dinámico: The “dynamic” completo features a combination of all the classic toppings ... avocado, tomato, sauerkraut, mayonnaise, and a spicy green sauce ... resulting in a flavor explosion.

• Completo Vegano: In response to changing tastes, many eateries now offer plant-based versions, using vegan sausages and dairy-free sauces, so everyone can enjoy this iconic meal.

Why Santiago’s Hot Dogs Stand Out

What makes Santiago’s hot dogs truly infamous is their audacious approach to toppings and portion sizes. The generous slathering of homemade mayonnaise, the freshness of locally sourced avocados, and the ever-present mountain of condiments have made the completo a beloved symbol of Chilean comfort food. Eating a hot dog in Santiago is not just a meal ... it’s an experience, a moment to savor a blend of cultures and flavors that tell the story of the city itself.

Conclusion

From legendary institutions like Fuente Alemana to creative new takes at modern eateries, the hot dog scene in Santiago is rich, diverse, and ever-evolving. Whether you’re seeking the classic italiano, an over-the-top completo a lo pobre, or a unique vegan twist, Santiago offers something for every palate. So next time you find yourself in Chile’s capital, be sure to indulge in the city’s most infamous meal ... you won’t regret it.

Julie O’Hara

THANK YOU for reading my work. I am a global nomad/permanent traveler, or Coddiwombler, if you will, and I move from place to place about every three months. I am currently in Peru and heading to Chile in a few days and from there, who knows? I enjoy writing articles, stories, songs and poems about life, spirituality and my travels. You can find my songs linked below. Feel free to like and subscribe on any of the platforms. And if you are inspired to, tips are always appreciated, but not necessary. I just like sharing.

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