Colombia, the second largest South American country, is known worldwide for its natural beauty and its popular beaches, but what’s not as well-known are the amazing restaurants the country offers its visitors and natives alike. With so many options to choose from, it can be tough to pick the best restaurants in Colombia! Here are five of the most notable Colombian restaurants that deserve your consideration when you plan your next trip to this wonderful country in 2022.
Restaurant #1 – For Seafood
If you’re a seafood lover, then you’ll love Arrecifes de Mariscos. The name of it actually means reefs of seafood and is located on an island off of Cartagena. This restaurant offers an exquisite seafood experience from its waterfront location. It offers an open-air setting that allows guests to enjoy their meals while taking in ocean views and fresh sea breezes.
Restaurant #2 – For Meat Lovers
Chicharroneria La Cocina De Ligia – As a landlocked country, we Colombians don’t have much variety when it comes to seafood. To make up for it, though, we turn our attention to pork and other meats. Founded by Ligia Marquez de Ramirez, whose father opened one of Cartagena’s first chicharrón stands in 1960, La Cocina De Ligia is famed throughout Colombia and has been honored by several food magazines as one of the best places to get meaty goodness. Many believe that El Super Salto – a massive pork steak cooked on an open flame – is what makes their food so good; others disagree, arguing that everything on their menu is just as delicious.
Restaurant #3 – Good vegetarian choice
Hands down one of my favorite restaurants in Bogota, Meinl Restaurant is great not only because it offers a wide variety of choices but also because it has some of the best vegetarian food I’ve tried in all of Colombia. With a menu that includes avocado burgers, gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and even vegan burgers, there is plenty to try here. I recommend adding chips and guacamole to your order if you go with something other than a burger or sandwich—it will add extra calories but will make your meal feel like you are eating out at an upscale restaurant. The next time you find yourself near Bolivar Square (and don’t want to deal with expensive tourist traps), definitely check out Meinl Restaurant!
Restaurant #4 – For Romance
Centrally located on a main thoroughfare, Restaurant #4 is well-known among tourists and locals alike. This seafood restaurant has stunning views of a large pond and open fields, making it perfect for couples to enjoy a nice night out on date. The menu has few options but each one is expertly crafted by one of only two chefs that work at Restaurant #4. For those seeking romance, there’s no better place than Restaurant #4. With its beautiful atmosphere and friendly staff, it’s an easy choice for anyone looking to dine with someone special. It does not accept reservations but expect long lines on any given night.
Restaurant #5 – For Street Food
Calle 11 – Cali, Colombia (Cali) — The best place to eat street food in Cali? The block between 12th and 13th Street. Here you will find a wide variety of cuisines, including Chinese, Lebanese, Mexican, Pizza and many more. Food is cheap and delicious. This is definitely where all locals go when they have a craving for something quick or just need a break from cooking! Also great late night! Definitely try their pupusas…definitely one of my favorite meals while I was there!
