Viru Viru International Airport

Viru Viru isn't exactly a foodie destination in its own right, but once you clear security and settle into the departures area, you'll find a handful of spots that genuinely reflect Santa Cruz's warm, generous food culture. The main airside level has a small food court anchored by a local café serving strong café con leche and freshly baked pastries — a solid first move before any early flight. Seating is relaxed, the staff are friendly, and it feels far less corporate than you'd expect.

If you have a bit more time, look for the sit-down options near the departure gates where you can order proper Bolivian comfort food. Sopa de maní — a rich peanut soup that's a Santa Cruz staple — sometimes appears on rotating menus, and you'll almost always find salteñas, the juicy, slightly sweet Bolivian baked empanadas that locals treat as an art form. Pair one with a cold Paceña beer or a glass of mocochinchi, a chilled peach-pit drink that's quietly refreshing and wholly Bolivian.

For something quicker, a couple of grab-and-go counters stock sandwiches, empanadas, and local snacks like cuñapés — warm, chewy cheese bread made from yuca flour that Santa Cruz practically runs on. Prices are reasonable by airport standards, portions are honest, and nothing feels like an afterthought. If you forgot to eat in the city, the airport won't punish you for it — and if you did eat well, a cuñapé for the road never hurt anyone.