Gourmet on the Go: D.O. Restoran

D.O. Restorán, the initials stand for “designation of origin”—is the brainchild of one of Chile’s most acclaimed chefs, Juan Morales. All of the dishes and wines in this modern, sophisticated restaurant are labeled with an official seal of origin. Diners know where in Chile every fish, piece of meat, and vegetable came from. Even the salt’s origin is noted.

The friendly waitstaff provides excellent service. You can order a la carte or opt for elaborate three-, six- or nine-course tasting menus.

Start with the marvelous and original tomato salad, which arrives with four types of tomatoes, salmon chunks, cucumber, and olive slices. Or try the steamed mussels with Pacific seaweed in a light saffron and white wine broth. And that crusty Chilean bread—wow.

As for the entrées, the flavors meld perfectly in the sublime Puyuhuapi rainbow trout with apples, cilantro, and quinoa. Also outstanding is the slow-cooked roast beef, which the chef tops with crispy bacon and pairs with mashed potatoes, squash, and corn. The desserts, such as the edible chocolate ganache flower pots, are culinary works of art.  

The wine list offers far more than the usual fare. Try the Montes Alpha M; bold Carmen Gold Reserve; or Siegel Unique Selection, an earthy Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Carmenere blend. Or order one of the cocktails, which the bartenders make from scratch using only fresh, quality ingredients. Here is where I enjoyed the best pisco sour of my life.—Bob Ecker

D.O. Restorán, 1223 Lo Barnechea, Santiago, Chile, (562) 2216-6793