Don't be fooled by its modest appearance – an old colonial building tucked away in a somewhat overlooked sector of downtown La Paz. Behind its neighborhood restaurant façade, Ali Pacha proves to be the ambassador of high-end Bolivian vegan cuisine within this meat-loving city. The establishment has earned international recognition for its innovative concept, led by a former member of the celebrated Gustu. Chef Sebastian Quiroga and his team are devoted to your every need. The menu, kept secret until you arrive at your table, immerses you in Bolivian flavors with authenticity and refinement. Ali Pacha stands unpretentiously among the 12 best vegan restaurants in the world according to Travel Channel.

The Story of Ali Pacha Restaurant

The Ali Pacha restaurant in La Paz was created by Bolivian chef Sebastian Quiroga in 2016. Its name, which means "universe of plants" in the Aymara language, reflects the culinary direction embraced by its founder: placing Bolivia's natural products, primarily of plant origin, at the heart of his establishment's haute cuisine.

A Few Words About Sebastian Quiroga

Sebastian Quiroga studied French cuisine and pastry at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu London culinary arts school. Upon his return to South America, he completed internships at Astrid & Gastón restaurant in Lima, Peru, then trained under Gustu for three months, followed by time at Relae in Copenhagen. He opened Ali Pacha in La Paz in 2016 with the goal of promoting a culinary experience rooted in local and sustainable sourcing.

Dining at Ali Pacha

With the emergence of boutique hotels and the proliferation of trendy cafés, a kind of cultural revolution has unfolded within La Paz in recent years. Following Gustu, the restaurant-bar four-time crowned best restaurant in Bolivia on the 50 Best Restaurants in Latin America list, Ali Pacha places its vegan signature within the world of haute cuisine. The establishment received the World Luxury Award in 2017 – a competition recognizing innovation in luxury brand communication – for its concept and cocktail menu.

Don't Judge a Restaurant by Its Appearance

Ali Pacha is located in old La Paz, in the Casco Viejo neighborhood on Calle Colón, a few blocks from Plaza Murillo. Its location makes an interesting statement, given that most upscale restaurants are situated in the wealthy southern neighborhoods and Sopocachi. On the other hand, the neighboring fast-food establishments offer little culinary distinction, unless you're fond of greasy fried chicken. The location choice may seem unconventional, but Chef Quiroga through Ali Pacha also wished to bring fresh energy to La Paz's chaotic downtown.

The Ali Pacha restaurant occupies the basement of a former colonial building. Past the entrance, you'll discover an interior of considerable charm: exposed brick walls, geometric tile patterns, mixed seating, and polished wooden beams. Spanish influence is evident throughout. The spacious, refined setting is perfect for a business meeting, romantic dinner, or simply a tourist stopover.

On the Menu…

The menu is kept secret until service. But rest assured, you will eat exceptionally well at Ali Pacha. The restaurant reinvents its plant-based haute cuisine with each season. A few ingredients can be mentioned, such as Amazon almonds used in preparing ricotta, cassava for creating a cheese-like texture, fermented cucumber water, and corn for preparing huminta. No matter the dish, a single bite is enough to delight, with its balance of textures, tastes and delicate flavors, as well as the abundance of tastes that have made Chef Sebastian Quiroga's reputation. All menus include sourdough bread and filtered water. To experience the same culinary journey, the chef recommends that everyone at your table order the same menu.

What to Do After Dinner at Ali Pacha

On the top floor of the building, there's a bar where you can sip classic cocktails and the restaurant's original creations.

Tourist attractions abound in the surrounding area. A short walk away, visit the main Plaza Murillo, around which Bolivia's principal political monuments have been built, including the Presidential Palace and the Congress building. Potosi Street also offers a lovely stroll with its many shops. Following it uphill leads to the Museo Costumbrista Juan de Vargas, renowned for its collection of miniatures, colonial artifacts, and historical photographs.

Practical Information

While it's easiest to take a taxi to reach Ali Pacha, you can certainly walk toward Plaza Murillo, then continue along Calle Colón to the Casco Viejo neighborhood to arrive at the restaurant.

Hours

Ali Pacha restaurant is open Monday through Saturday, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. and from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Prices

Ali Pacha restaurant prices are as follows:

• Short menu: 100 Bs. (Lunch only)

• Full menu: 200 Bs.

• Ali Pacha menu: 300 Bs.