Lykkers, prepare for a mouthwatering journey through Colombia’s rich culinary landscape. From steaming bowls of ajiaco in Bogotá to crispy patacones on the Caribbean coast, every dish bursts with tradition and flavor.
This guide uncovers the top must-try meals, complete with where to find them and what makes each one special.
Ajiaco: Bogotá’s Soul Food
A steaming bowl of ajiaco is Colombia’s ultimate comfort food. Made with three types of potatoes, tender chicken, and the fragrant guasca herb, this soup is served with capers, cream, and avocado.
Where to Try: Head to La Puerta de la Catedral in Bogotá’s historic center. A hearty portion costs around $15,000 COP (≈$4 USD).
Changua: Breakfast Magic
A milky soup with poached eggs and fresh herbs, changua is Bogotá’s go-to morning remedy. Locals swear by its hangover-curing powers.
Must-Visit: Mama Lupe in La Candelaria offers it for $8,000 COP (≈$2 USD).
Empanadas: Crispy Delights
Colombian empanadas are golden pockets filled with spiced checken, potatoes, or cheese. Fried to perfection, they’re the ultimate street snack.
Top Pick: Empanadas El Machetico in Medellín sells them for $2,000 COP (≈$0.50 USD) each.
Arepas: Corn Heaven
These versatile corn cakes come stuffed with cheese, eggs, or chicken. The arepa de huevo (egg-filled) is a coastal favorite.
Don’t Miss: La Pepiada in Cartagena crafts gourmet arepas for $10,000 COP (≈$2.50 USD).
Patacones: Crunchy Goodness
Twice-fried green plantains, smashed and salted, pair perfectly with tangy hogao sauce or guacamole.
Where to Go: Mamasita Medallo in Medellín serves them as a side for $6,000 COP (≈$1.50 USD).
Tamales: Sunday Tradition
Wrapped in banana leaves, tamales are stuffed with rice, chicken, and veggies, then steamed for hours.
Best Bite: La Puerta Falsa in Bogotá offers them for $12,000 COP (≈$3 USD).
Cazuela de Mariscos: Coastal Bliss
A creamy coconut stew packed with shrimp, clams, and fish, this dish is Cartagena’s seafood star.
Top Spot: Buena Vida Marisquería charges $30,000 COP (≈$7.50 USD) for a generous bowl.
Ceviche: Citrusy Fresh
Colombian-style ceviche features shrimp or fish "cooked" in lime juice, mixed with onions and cilantro.
Must-Try: La Cevicheria in Cartagena offers it for $22,000 COP (≈$5.50 USD).
Mango Biche: Tangy Snack
Unripe mango slices sprinkled with lime and salt are a refreshing street treat.
Where to Buy: Any coastal vendor sells it for $3,000 COP (≈$0.75 USD).
Cholao: Fruity Delight
Shaved ice topped with tropical fruits, condensed milk, and syrup is a sweet Cali specialty.
Best Stop: Cholados Gourmet in Cali serves it for $7,000 COP (≈$1.75 USD).
Chocolate Santafereño: Cheesy Twist
Hot chocolate with melted cheese inside? Trust Colombians to make it work.
Try It At: The Chocolate House in Medellín for $9,000 COP (≈$2.25 USD).
Pandebono: Cheesy Bread
These warm, cheesy rolls pair perfectly with coffee or hot chocolate.
Grab Some: Árbol de Pan in Bogotá sells them for $4,000 COP (≈$1 USD).
Obleas: Sweet Finale
Crispy wafers layered with caramel, jam, and cream make a perfect dessert.
Final Stop: Obleas de Doña Berta in Bogotá charges $5,000 COP (≈$1.25 USD).
Conclusion
Colombia’s food scene is a feast for the senses. From hearty mountain soups to tropical coastal bites, every dish tells a story. Lykkers, which one will you try first? Bookmark this guide and let your taste buds lead the way!
