4 Best Restaurants in Punta del Este, Uruguay

Huella means footprint, and this now-legendary restaurant certainly has left its mark. Built right on the sand, La Huella takes beach dining to an unrivaled level with exquisite grilled seafood and meats—the octopus is not to be missed—as well as fresh sushi, pastas, and pizzas. The restaurant epitomizes the best of beach culture and spirit, and while celebrity sightings are common, everyone seems to be relaxed and easygoing. Because the place is wildly popular, reservations in peak season are necessary.

Bearing the name of its founder, this small restaurant on the Rambla Artigas, the oceanside promenade, offers fine dining at moderate prices—its successful recipe for attracting clientele for more than 40 years. You can't beat the view, and in the summer you can appreciate the excellent service while enjoying the sea breeze. They are famous for their spinach and cheese soufflés; their grilled meats and fish also are exquisite.

It's a bit hard to believe a place as low-key and affordable as this traditional Uruguayan steak house exists in chic Punta del Este, but it does—and that's precisely why locals love it. Your best bet is to stick to steak and sides to share, including the platter of mini provoleta (grilled cheese) with a bottle of wine to wash it all down. Expect to wait for a table at prime mealtimes, but the friendly and fast waitstaff will have you feasting in no time.

Loved by locals, this small eatery has a great view of Isla Gorriti. The menu includes a bit of everything, but the specialty is seafood. Perennial favorites are brotola à la Roquefort (baked hake with a Roquefort sauce) and pulpo Provençal, likely to be the most tender octopus you've ever eaten.