Top 10 Dishes to Savor in Cartagena

Strolling through the charming, winding streets of Cartagena after a sun-soaked day on the pristine Caribbean beach will surely stir up your appetite. Fortunately, this stunning city is filled with restaurants and street vendors showcasing Colombia’s exceptional culinary offerings.

Few Caribbean cruise ports boast such a rich variety of food. In fact, deciding what to eat during your visit might be the biggest challenge you face in Cartagena. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 10 essential dishes to help guide your culinary journey.

1. Mojarra

Tender, flaky, and bursting with flavor, Mojarra is the most beloved fish along Colombia’s Caribbean coast and makes for a delightful dish for lunch or dinner. Many eateries in Cartagena’s historic district serve Mojarra pan-fried, accompanied by patacones (flattened plantains), rice, and a fresh salad.

In contrast to larger fish typically served as fillets, Mojarra is usually presented whole on the plate. Locals savor almost every part of the fish until only a small heap of bones remains!

2. Mondongo Soup

Resembling the Mexican dish menudo, Colombia's mondongo is a rich, hearty stew made with tripe—the tender meat from a cow's stomach—and chunks of pork. Often accompanied by avocado or banana, Mondongo can be found in most traditional restaurants in Cartagena, particularly those known for their steaks and meat dishes.

3. Pan de Bono

A beloved treat found throughout Colombia, Pan de Bono is a delicious pastry crafted from yucca flour and cheese, featuring a light yet satisfying texture. You can find Pan de Bono at any local bakery (panaderia) in Cartagena, typically enjoyed in the morning with a cup of freshly brewed coffee.

4. Posta Negra Cartagenera

This traditional meat dish from the Caribbean coast, Posta Negra Cartagenera, features a succulent cut of round roast prepared in a rich black sauce infused with cumin, cloves, Coca-Cola, and raw sugar. The outcome is a tender and visually appealing dish that will delight anyone who appreciates bold flavors. You can find Posta Negra Cartagenera served across the city, typically accompanied by rice, patacones, and salad.

5. Colombian Empanadas

A fundamental part of everyday life throughout Colombia, empanadas consist of a corn shell filled with delicious ingredients, then deep-fried to achieve a crispy and hot treat. Typically filled with potatoes, vegetables, and beef, empanadas can be found almost anywhere in Cartagena, available as both street food and in bakeries. Commonly enjoyed as a snack between meals or late at night, empanadas are a must-try—especially when drizzled with a bit of aji (spicy sauce).

6. Arepas de Queso

Looking for another Colombian delight that will leave you wanting more? Try the arepa de queso. This snack features fresh corn dough filled with cheese and grilled over an open flame, guaranteed to please the entire family.

You can spot arepas de queso being sold by street vendors all around Cartagena, particularly in the evenings when they are often paired with chorizo.

7. Tres Leches Cake

When you're craving something sweet, nothing in Cartagena hits the spot quite like a generous slice of Tres Leches Cake. This decadent dessert is crafted from three types of milk—evaporated milk, heavy cream, and sweetened condensed milk—resulting in a rich and creamy delight that will have kids asking for seconds. You can find Tres Leches Cake at most bakeries in Cartagena, and many restaurants feature it on their dessert menus as well.

8. Ceviche

The warm, humid climate of Colombia's Caribbean coast makes ceviche a refreshing and light option for lunch or a midday snack. Unlike the lime-marinated fish found in Peruvian or Mexican ceviches, Colombian ceviche typically features boiled shrimp, akin to what many in the U.S. know as shrimp cocktail. In Cartagena, you can enjoy ceviche from beachside stands or restaurants that specialize in seafood—don't forget to inquire about the variety of sauces available.

9. Arroz con Coco

Coconut rice is a beloved coastal delicacy commonly served with most seafood dishes in Cartagena. In many establishments, you might need to request it as a substitute for plain white rice, but trust us, it’s worth it! This delightful dish is made by slowly simmering coconut milk and shredded coconut into fluffy steamed rice, creating a simple yet incredibly delicious accompaniment that elevates ordinary fish meals to a whole new level.

10. Colombian Coffee

As a key cruise ship destination in a country renowned for producing some of the finest coffee in the world, Cartagena boasts numerous spots to enjoy a freshly brewed cup. From upscale cafes that expertly craft espresso shots to street vendors with steaming thermoses of tinto (black filtered coffee), the streets of Cartagena are permeated with the delightful aroma of this rich beverage. Additionally, Cartagena is an excellent location to purchase coffee by the pound to take home as a souvenir.

Looking for More Reasons to Set Sail for Cartagena?

While the culinary delights of Cartagena are truly remarkable, they are just one of the countless reasons to embark on a cruise to this historic coastal city. Other remarkable activities in Cartagena include lounging on the beach, exploring romantic and historic landmarks, and indulging in a shopping spree. With all the delectable Colombian cuisine energizing your journey, you’re in for a sensory adventure like no other.

Note: Onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining selections may differ by ship and destination.