This archipelago of 40 islands off the coast of Chile may be less known than the country’s all-star attractions, like the high desert of the Atacama and Patagonia’s magnificent alpine peaks. But Chiloé’s island status has fostered a unique cultural and culinary identity distinct from the mainland. Here, visitors will find colourful UNESCO-listed wooden churches, houses perched on stilts known as palafitos, and wildlife ranging from giant snails to Magellanic penguins and the pudu, the world’s smallest deer.

Chiloé is drawing curious, adventurous travellers to its rugged shores for intimate dining experiences in local homes, featuring everything from freshly caught Pacific seafood to heirloom potatoes, meat and shellfish roasted over the hot stones of a traditional curanto, one of the Americas’ oldest cooking techniques.

The appeal of travellers broadening their culinary experience goes beyond Michelin-starred meals and Instagram-ready dishes. It’s about the human connection that comes from breaking bread with strangers who have yet to become friends. According to the World Happiness Report, sharing meals is an “exceptionally strong indicator of subjective wellbeing,” fostering social connectedness and promoting individual and societal happiness.

It’s easier than ever to experience local cuisine and forge meaningful connections while travelling, whether through culinary adventures organized by tour operators like Chiloe Natural or via culinary communities like Eatwith.