Why Colombia is a Food Lover’s Dream
Colombia was more than just a trip full of culture. It was a journey filled with diverse flavors and delicious delicacies. During my visit to Colombia, I experienced the charm of Cartagena and the creative vibes that filled Medellín. In both cities, I found myself eating some of the best meals and sipping unforgettable cocktails. It didn’t matter if it was breakfast, street food, or late-night speakeasies. Every bite and sip was a story full of culture and culinary beauty.
Cartagena: Colour, Cocktails, and Caribbean Comfort Foods
Upon arriving in Cartagena, I was met with a food scene that blended Caribbean flavors with tropical flair. What shocked me the most? How unexpectedly, breakfast became some of my favorite memories of Cartagena. My top three spots: Nía Bakery, La Brioche, and Época Café.
Nía Bakery delighted me with a dreamy first impression. Between the flaky pastries, vibrant avocado toast, and some of the best smooth coffee, it was a great dining experience. Every bite was amazing and filled with wow factor! The vibe was calm, the bread was fresh, and the avo was creamy perfection.
La Brioche also satisfied every sweet craving you could imagine. With their crispy, buttery pastries filled with tropical fruits and seriously good espresso, it is a spot you cannot miss.
At Época Café, I tried both their avocado toast and a breakfast sandwich that deserves a paragraph of its own. The rich filling of eggs and cheese, nestled in a crusty roll, was perfection. The café is equal parts trendy and grounded, balancing cool interiors with warm service. To top it all off, the cold brew was chef’s kiss!
Now, moving on to later in the day, I hit up some spots for spectacular drinks in the city. Much needed with hot humidity, especially once it hits 3 p.m. But you know what they say… It is always 5 o’clock somewhere. Never too early to have a drink!
On my first night, I found myself at the iconic Alquímico, a Cartagena speakeasy. There, I got to experience bold, experimental cocktails. Not to mention, I devoured the juicy, fresh pineapple skewers as well. It’s truly more than a bar. It is an experience across various themed floors, always buzzing with high energy and fun vibes for all.
I also tried out some nice rooftop sips at the Movich Hotel. You truly couldn't beat the views here, and with an amazing cocktail in hand, how could things get any better? The drinks were a bit on the pricier side for Cartagena, but the view of the walled city and the amazing sunset over it made it worth it.
Lastly, I stumbled upon Mirador Gastro Bar. This bar is right near the main square, an easy spot for when you need a break from the midday heat! The cocktails were vibrant and tropical, and the space was filled with music that drifted through the place, accompanying the spectacular, refreshing drinks.
No Cartagena food roundup would be complete without mentioning the street food arepas, a Colombian traditional food that is truly unforgettable! These arepas were thick, golden, and stuffed with your choice of cheese and/or meat in the middle. I had my first one upon arrival near the historic center and was instantly blown away as soon as the flavors hit my mouth. Not to mention, it came handed over with a huge smile from the locals running the stand. Messy and deeply satisfying, it was something I thought would be a quick snack, but it turned into a core trip memory.
Medellín: Chill Vibes, World-Class Coffee, and Unexpected Pizza
My time in Medellín wasn’t very long, but I did get the opportunity to try two amazing spots in the city that you can not miss if you find yourself here!
Who would have thought one of the best pizzas I’ve ever had would come from the city of Medellín? Café Zorba is truly a secret sanctuary within the city. Between the artisan thin crust and the fresh ingredients, it truly is art. The Margherita pizza seemed like a simple order, but it was packed with flavor all throughout. This place deserves a love letter of its own to truly capture the deliciousness I found here!
Before heading out of the city, I had to try Pergamino Café, which I’d heard was all the hype. Once I tried their avocado toast and eggs, I saw why! This is not an exaggeration when I say the avocado toast from this café truly changed the game. Thick, creamy slices of fresh avocado lined the homemade bread. Their secret? A drizzle of olive oil and flaky sea salt on top. It was beautifully balanced and perfectly fresh!
Final Thoughts on My Colombian Culinary Experience
Cartagena gave me bright mornings, bold flavors, and coastal cocktails. Medellín surprised me with its depth, innovation, and comfort. Both cities surpassed my expectations and served up tasty food.
From speakeasy skewers to avocado toasts that I’ll be chasing forever, Colombia has fully earned its place on my “food destinations to revisit” list. If you ever find yourself there, better make sure you come hungry and thirsty!
Gianna Bruno | Contributing Editor, Food · Travel · Leisure