Best Places to Eat in Cartagena

Cartagena’s Culinary Delights: A Guide to Street Food and More

Cartagena, a vibrant city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. From traditional Colombian dishes to Afro-Caribbean flavors, Cartagena offers an array of mouth-watering options for foodies. Here are the best places to eat in Cartagena, with a focus on popular street food:

Street Food Heaven

1. Arepas de Huevo (Egg Arepas)

  • Location: Plaza Bolívar, near the Cathedral
  • Try the classic Colombian breakfast dish, made with crispy arepa bread filled with scrambled eggs and cheese.

2. Patacones con Queso (Fried Green Plantains with Cheese)

  • Location: Street vendors around the old town
  • Savor the crispiest fried green plantains served with melted cheese and a sprinkle of salt.

3. Chicharrón (Deep-Fried Pork Rinds)

  • Location: Food stalls in the Mercado de Bazurto
  • Indulge in these crispy, flavorful pork rinds often served with yuca or plantain chips.

4. Empanadas (Meat or Cheese Pastries)

  • Location: Various street food vendors and cafes
  • Enjoy these savory pastries filled with meat, cheese, or chorizo, perfect for a quick snack.

Mid-Range Eats

1. La Castilla

  • Location: Calle de la Universidad, near the University of Cartagena
  • This cozy restaurant serves traditional Colombian dishes like ajiaco (chicken soup) and tamales.

2. Café Havana

  • Location: Plaza de Bolívar, near the Cathedral
  • This charming café offers delicious breakfast options, sandwiches, and coffee, with a picturesque view of the plaza.

Upscale Options

1. El Bistro

  • Location: Calle del Arsenal, near the old town
  • Treat yourself to gourmet Colombian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and creative presentation.

2. La Macarena

  • Location: Calle de la Universidad, near the University of Cartagena
  • This elegant restaurant serves contemporary Caribbean cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood and exotic flavors.

Desserts

1. Arepa con Miel (Arepas with Honey)

  • Location: Various street food vendors
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with crispy arepas drizzled with pure honey and sprinkled with cinnamon.

2. Coconut Ice Cream

  • Location: Street vendors around the old town
  • Beat the heat with a refreshing scoop of coconut ice cream, often served in a coconut shell.

Insider Tips

  • Be sure to try the local fruits like mangoes, pineapples, and coconuts from street vendors.
  • For a unique experience, visit the Mercado de Bazurto on Sundays for live music and a lively atmosphere.
  • Don’t forget to stay hydrated with fresh coconut water or fruit juices.

Safety First

  • Always eat at popular and crowded food stalls or restaurants to ensure food safety.
  • Avoid eating from street vendors who don’t handle food properly or have poor hygiene practices.

With this guide, you’re ready to embark on a culinary adventure in Cartagena!