AI-generated image About Chivito
Thin steak is stacked in a roll with ham, cheese, bacon, egg, lettuce and tomato into an overflowing sandwich. It is the unofficial national dish of Uruguay.
History & Culture
Chivito, Uruguay's unofficial national dish, is a towering sandwich of thin steak, ham, cheese, bacon, fried egg, lettuce, and tomato, typically served with a roll and often accompanied by french fries. Its origins are debated, but the most popular story credits a local restaurateur in Punta del Este in the 1940s, who invented it after a customer requested a dish like chivito (baby goat) - which was not available - so he improvised with beef.
Regional variations abound across Uruguay, with some versions adding mayonnaise, olives, or peppers, and others swapping the steak for chicken or mixed meats. The chivito is culturally significant as a symbol of Uruguayan identity, especially in casual dining and street food, where its generous, messy construction reflects a national love for hearty, communal eating.
Where to eat it
A Uruguayan diner, with a mountain of fries.
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Chivito - frequently asked questions
What is Chivito?
Thin steak is stacked in a roll with ham, cheese, bacon, egg, lettuce and tomato into an overflowing sandwich. It is the unofficial national dish of Uruguay.
What is Chivito made of?
Chivito is made with beef steak, ham, mozzarella, bacon and fried egg.
Where does Chivito come from?
Chivito comes from Uruguay, and is especially associated with Nationwide. Chivito, Uruguay's unofficial national dish, is a towering sandwich of thin steak, ham, cheese, bacon, fried egg, lettuce, and tomato, typically served with a roll and often accompanied by french fries.
Where can I eat Chivito?
A Uruguayan diner, with a mountain of fries.
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