El Gallo Con Tacones - Hostel

In October 2018, my friend and I spent about a week here and really enjoyed it. We liked the stay so much that we planned to return in April at the end of our trip. That visit turned into a terrible experience, and this is the first time I've ever left a one-star review. About a week before we were due back, my friend went in to book two nights. A staff member wrote it down and said it was fine. When we arrived a week later, we signed in and were taken to our room. Around 20 minutes afterward, another staff member knocked and said the room had already been booked and paid for by other guests. They were full that night, and we had to leave immediately. There was no apology or help finding somewhere else. Only after I pushed for an explanation did he acknowledge that the staff had miscommunicated. We were left scrambling for a place to stay on a Friday night with no notice. After such a nice visit in October, the April stay was the complete opposite. Such a shame.

The hostel has a lovely feel inside, and the staff are friendly. The facilities could be cleaner and tidier, but they're pleasant enough for a short Santiago stay. Breakfast was a nice surprise, with savory food, and the chef was happy to make ours vegan.

I was there only for a special dinner, and the chef made it a great experience. Every course was excellent, from the appetizers through dessert, and the wine pairings were just right each time.

The hosts were welcoming, the rooms spacious, and the beds comfortable. There are nice common areas, a good kitchen, and reliable WiFi. Get the breakfast! I wouldn't stay anywhere else in Santiago.