CHUCAO · CC BY-SA 3.0Surubí
surubi
The great catfish of the Paraguay and Paraná rivers: firm white flesh and the star of the riverside table.
What it is
Surubí (genus Pseudoplatystoma, spotted or tiger-striped catfish) is the country’s most prized river fish. It is served as grilled steaks, breaded as milanesa, in soup, as chupín (stewed in sauce) and in chef-driven dishes from ravioli to tiraditos. When ordering, ask whether it is wild or farmed, and keep in mind the annual fishing ban, when wild fish is scarce or its sale restricted.
Ingredients
History
In the past, surubíes of up to 1.8 meters and 90 kilos were recorded. Commercial fishing and changes to the rivers have reduced their numbers, and today the species is considered vulnerable. Contemporary Paraguayan cuisine has made it the signature ingredient of Asunción’s chef-driven restaurants.
Did you know…?
For the 2025 Paraguay Rembi'u festival, cooks from Alberdi (Ñeembucú) unveiled a new creation: surubí pizza baked in a tatakua, cooked live.
When
Year-round, except during the fishing ban (usually November and December; check official dates before you go).
Where
Pilar, Ayolas, Alberdi and the banks of the Paraguay River; Asunción fish restaurants such as Puerto Pira.
Researched and reviewed in September 2026 with 4 sources. A second reviewer checked dates, coordinates and lodging. Hours and prices may change.