Discovering the Top Culinary Spots in Cartagena, Colombia

Photo credit: www.foodandwine.com

Located along the northern Caribbean coast, Cartagena is a lively city that beautifully merges colorful architecture with a deep-rooted history, creating an irresistible atmosphere. It stands as a vibrant representative of Colombia’s cultural landscape, while also thriving as a contemporary urban center, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a mix of historical charm and modern pleasures, particularly in its culinary scene.

Accessible by a short flight from many major North American cities, Cartagena is an attractive option for couples in search of a romantic Caribbean getaway that strays from more common tourist routes. The city caters to all kinds of travelers—whether they enjoy wandering hand in hand through the cobbled streets of its UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town, or prefer dancing the night away at lively venues. With its stunning colonial buildings, charming streets, and cozy coffee shops serving Colombia’s renowned brews, Cartagena skillfully balances opportunities for adventure with a chance to unwind.

Below, explore some of the finest dining options in Cartagena, perfect for enjoying cocktails or a candlelit dinner as the sun dips below the roofs of this captivating city.

Celele

A must-visit on your culinary itinerary is Celele Restaurante. The ambiance shifts between festive and intimate, featuring soft lighting, rustic brick walls, and exquisite murals that set the tone for a gastronomic adventure inspired by Colombia’s Caribbean coast.

The restaurant’s menu is a heartfelt tribute to local flavors, showcasing inventive takes on traditional dishes using the freshest ingredients available. Couples can enjoy a delightful Caribbean crab dish that envelops the senses or indulge in a flower salad, which presents a stunning array of colors and textures. Be sure to try any beverage infused with corozo, a local berry known for its tartness.

Mar y Zielo

Nestled in a historic building, Mar y Zielo spans multiple floors, offering an artistic dining experience rich in local flavor. The ground level boasts beautifully designed spaces where guests can savor dishes like eggplant and carimañolas—local fried yuca parcels stuffed with cheese. The fish of the day and the signature Titote Mar y Tierra, combining fresh seafood with pork belly and coconut rice, serve as highlights on the menu. For wine aficionados, the cava offers an extensive selection to explore.

Ascending to the rooftop bar, Zielo, guests are treated to breathtaking views of the city—making it the perfect setting for an evening of casual drinks and conversation. The bar’s cocktail menu features inventive mixes ideal for enjoying against the backdrop of the Cartagena skyline. This vibrant venue transforms into a bustling nightlife hotspot on weekend nights, ideal for those looking to dance.

Carmen Cartagena

COURTESY OF CARMEN CARTAGENA

The sophisticated yet laid-back ambiance of Carmen Cartagena invites guests to indulge in an unforgettable culinary experience within a colonial hacienda in downtown Cartagena. This restaurant is a sister location to a celebrated establishment in Medellín and is hailed as one of the premier dining spots in Latin America.

Boasting a seven and nine-course tasting menu, as well as à la carte options, every dish showcases carefully sourced local ingredients. Must-try specialties include seafood chorizo, incorporating fresh catches, and a playful reinterpretation of the famous seafood cazuela, featuring lobster, octopus, and mussels in a plantain bisque, delivering a rich tapestry of Colombian flavor. For an exceptional culinary journey, opt for the tasting menu crafted by the talented chefs.

La Mulata

For a departure from upscale dining atmospheres, La Mulata offers a casual yet authentic experience centered around Colombia’s Afro-Caribbean culinary heritage. The dishes are generous in portion and bursting with flavors that reflect the country’s coastal legacy, all enjoyed in a cozy locale adorned with vintage tiles and breezy fan decorations.

Specializing in coastal fare, La Mulata’s flagship dish is the sancocho de pescado con coco—a flavorful fish stew simmered in coconut milk. Each bowl delivers tender fish, yuca, and plantains, enveloped in a rich broth that evokes the essence of Cartagena. Additional favorites include posta Cartagenera, a grilled beef dish marinated with Coca-Cola and served over sweet, coconut-infused rice.

La Mulata stands out for providing authentic Colombian cuisine at reasonable prices, making it a beloved spot among both locals and visitors eager to explore a less publicized aspect of Colombia’s rich culinary tradition.

Alquímico Bar

Courtesy of Alquimico

For a lively night out, look no further than Alquímico, which has been recognized repeatedly among the World’s 50 Best Bars. This venue features high ceilings and three distinct floors, each offering a unique bar atmosphere alongside expertly crafted cocktails and a festive ambiance punctuated by energetic music and vibrant flavors.

Source
www.foodandwine.com