Where To Eat In Cartagena

When it comes to traveling, one of the most exciting aspects is immersing oneself in the local cuisine. Cartagena, a vibrant city in Colombia, is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of culinary delights that showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage. From traditional Colombian dishes to fresh seafood, and from street food to fine dining, Cartagena has something to offer for every palate and budget.

Discovering the Flavors of Cartagena

Cartagena’s culinary scene is a reflection of its history, with influences from Spanish, African, and indigenous cuisines. The city’s strategic location on the Caribbean coast makes it an ideal spot for seafood lovers, with an abundance of fresh fish, shellfish, and crustaceans. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a quick bite, or a culinary adventure, Cartagena’s restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls have got you covered.

A Guide to the Best Eats in Cartagena

In this guide, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Cartagena, highlighting the best places to eat, from local favorites to hidden gems. We’ll explore the city’s most popular neighborhoods, including the historic Old Town, Getsemaní, and Bocagrande, and recommend the top restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls in each area. Whether you’re a foodie, a traveler, or simply looking for a unique dining experience, this guide is your ultimate resource for discovering the best of Cartagena’s culinary scene.

Where to Eat in Cartagena: A Culinary Guide

Cartagena, a vibrant city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, is a treasure trove of flavors, aromas, and culinary delights. From traditional Colombian dishes to fresh seafood, and from street food to fine dining, Cartagena has something for every palate and budget. In this article, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey through the city, highlighting the best places to eat, drink, and indulge in Cartagena.

Traditional Colombian Cuisine

Cartagena is the perfect place to try traditional Colombian dishes, which are a fusion of Spanish, African, and indigenous influences. Some must-try dishes include:

• Ajiaco: a hearty chicken soup made with potatoes, corn, and herbs
• Bandeja Paisa: a platter of rice, beans, ground beef, chorizo, fried egg, plantain, and avocado
• Arroz con Coco: coconut rice with chicken or seafood
• Empanadas: meat or cheese-filled pastries

Some of the best places to try traditional Colombian cuisine in Cartagena include:

Seafood Heaven

Cartagena’s coastal location makes it a paradise for seafood lovers. Fresh catches of the day include lobster, shrimp, fish, and crab, which are often served with coconut rice, plantains, and avocado. Some popular seafood spots include: (See Also: Where To Eat In Revelstoke)

• La Marina: a bustling seafood market with a variety of restaurants and food stalls
• El Cevicherito: a small, casual spot serving fresh ceviche and seafood cocktails
• La Langostera: a beachfront restaurant in Bocagrande, offering a range of seafood dishes and stunning ocean views

Street Food and Markets

Cartagena’s streets are filled with vendors selling traditional street food, such as:

• Arepa de Queso: a crispy corn patty filled with melted cheese
• Churros con Caja: sweet fried dough pastries served with a side of caramel sauce
• Patacones: fried green plantains served with meat or cheese

Some popular markets and street food areas include:

• Plaza de Bolívar: a bustling square in the historic center with street food vendors and live music
• Mercado de Bazurto: a vibrant market in the Getsemaní neighborhood, offering a range of street food, fruits, and vegetables
• Calle de la Universidad: a pedestrian street in the historic center with street food stalls and cafes

Fine Dining and International Cuisine

Cartagena also offers a range of fine dining options, serving international cuisine with a Colombian twist. Some popular spots include:

• Restaurante 1621: a luxurious restaurant in the historic center, offering gourmet Colombian cuisine
• La Cevichería: a trendy spot in the Getsemaní neighborhood, serving creative ceviche dishes and cocktails
• Bistro M: a French-inspired bistro in the historic center, offering a range of international dishes

Cafes and Desserts

Cartagena is also a great place to indulge in coffee, pastries, and desserts. Some popular cafes and dessert spots include:

• Café San Alberto: a historic cafe in the historic center, serving traditional Colombian coffee and pastries
• Pastelería Mila: a popular bakery in the Getsemaní neighborhood, offering a range of sweet treats and desserts
• Heladería La Palettera: a colorful ice cream shop in the historic center, serving unique flavors like coconut and mango

Drinks and Nightlife

Cartagena’s nightlife is vibrant and lively, with a range of bars, clubs, and lounges to choose from. Some popular spots include: (See Also: Where To Eat In Malaybalay)

• Café Havana: a legendary bar in the Getsemaní neighborhood, serving Cuban-inspired cocktails and live music
• La Movida: a trendy club in the historic center, offering a range of DJs and live music
• El Barón: a rooftop bar in the historic center, serving craft cocktails and offering stunning views of the city

Recap and Recommendations

In conclusion, Cartagena is a culinary paradise, offering a range of traditional Colombian dishes, fresh seafood, street food, fine dining, and international cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a lively night out, or a quick snack on the go, Cartagena has something for everyone.

Some final recommendations include:

• Try traditional Colombian dishes like ajiaco and bandeja paisa
• Indulge in fresh seafood at La Marina or El Cevicherito
• Explore the street food scene at Plaza de Bolívar or Mercado de Bazurto
• Visit fine dining spots like Restaurante 1621 or La Cevichería
• Enjoy coffee and pastries at Café San Alberto or Pastelería Mila
• Experience the vibrant nightlife at Café Havana or La Movida

Remember to always try new things, be adventurous, and enjoy the culinary delights that Cartagena has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions: Where to Eat in Cartagena

What are the must-try dishes in Cartagena?

In Cartagena, you should definitely try the local specialties such as arroz con coco (coconut rice), fried fish, and arepas de huevo (egg arepas). Don’t miss the opportunity to taste the fresh seafood, especially the lobster and shrimp. Additionally, be sure to try some of the local fruits like mangoes, papayas, and passionfruits.

What are the best restaurants in Cartagena’s Old Town?

Some of the top-rated restaurants in Cartagena’s Old Town include La Cevichería, El Bistro, and La Macarena. These restaurants offer a range of cuisines from seafood to international fusion. Be sure to make a reservation in advance, especially during peak season.

Are there any good vegetarian or vegan options in Cartagena?

Yes, Cartagena has several vegetarian and vegan options. Some popular spots include Verdeo, a fully vegan restaurant, and Epoca Espresso Bar, which offers vegan and gluten-free options. You can also find vegetarian and vegan dishes at many of the local restaurants, just be sure to ask your server for options. (See Also: Where To Eat In Sagada)

Can I eat at the street food stalls in Cartagena?

While it’s tempting to try the street food in Cartagena, it’s generally not recommended. The street food stalls may not follow proper food safety guidelines, and you may be at risk of getting sick. Instead, stick to eating at reputable restaurants and cafes that have good hygiene standards.

Do I need to make a reservation at restaurants in Cartagena?

Yes, it’s highly recommended to make a reservation at popular restaurants in Cartagena, especially during peak season (December to April). Many restaurants fill up quickly, and you may be turned away if you don’t have a reservation. You can make a reservation by calling the restaurant or using online reservation platforms like OpenTable.