Indulge in Cartagena’s Culinary Delights: A Foodie’s Guide
Cartagena, the vibrant city located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere. But it is also a haven for food enthusiasts looking to explore a diverse and mouthwatering culinary scene. From traditional Colombian dishes to international cuisine, Cartagena offers a delightful experience for every foodie. In this blog post, we will take you on a gastronomic journey through the streets of Cartagena, highlighting some of the must-try dishes and restaurants that will leave you craving for more.
Start your culinary adventure with a visit to La Cevicheria, a local institution famous for its mouthwatering ceviche. This seafood dish, made with fresh fish or shrimp, marinated in lime juice, and mixed with onions, peppers, and coriander, is a perfect introduction to the flavors of Cartagena. Pair it with a cold beer or a refreshing coconut water and enjoy the explosion of flavors while soaking in the colorful ambiance of the city.
Another iconic dish of Cartagena is the arepa de huevo. This traditional Colombian snack consists of a deep-fried corn dough filled with a whole boiled egg and served with a side of hogao, a delicious tomato and onion sauce. The contrast between the crispy exterior and the warm, soft egg inside will leave you wanting more. For the best arepa de huevo in town, head to Las Bóvedas, a small restaurant located in the historic city walls.
If meat is more your thing, be sure to try the mouthwatering bandeja paisa. This hearty dish is a true Colombian feast, featuring an array of ingredients such as grilled steak, chorizo sausage, fried egg, avocado, rice, red beans, plantain, and arepa. It’s a delicious combination that showcases the diverse flavors and ingredients of Colombia’s cuisine. For an authentic bandeja paisa experience, La Mulata is the place to go. Located in the colorful neighborhood of Getsemani, this restaurant serves traditional Colombian dishes with a modern twist.
For a taste of international cuisine in Cartagena, make a reservation at Carmen. This upscale restaurant offers a fusion of Colombian and international flavors, with dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious. From innovative seafood dishes to creative cocktails, every bite and sip at Carmen is an explosion of flavors and textures. The cozy and elegant ambiance makes it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
No visit to Cartagena would be complete without sampling some delicious street food. The city’s streets are lined with food stalls and carts offering an array of savory and sweet treats. Try the empanadas, a staple of Colombian cuisine made with a variety of fillings such as beef, chicken, or cheese, and fried to perfection. Don’t forget to accompany them with ají, a spicy Colombian sauce that adds a kick to every bite. For those with a sweet tooth, try the arequipe-filled obleas, a thin wafer sandwich filled with caramel-like sauce, or indulge in a refreshing raspadilla, a shaved ice dessert topped with fruit syrups and condensed milk.
To truly immerse yourself in Cartagena’s culinary scene, consider taking a cooking class. There are several options available, where you can learn to prepare traditional Colombian dishes from local chefs. From mastering the art of making the perfect arepas to creating flavorful seafood dishes, these cooking classes offer a hands-on experience that will deepen your appreciation for Cartagena’s cuisine.
Whether you are a seasoned foodie or simply someone who loves to explore new flavors, Cartagena’s culinary delights will captivate your taste buds and leave you craving for more. From traditional Colombian dishes to international cuisine, this vibrant city offers a culinary journey that is as diverse as its culture and history. So indulge in the flavors of Cartagena, try the local delicacies, and let your taste buds guide you through a food-lover’s paradise.
