Top dining spots in Cartagena, Colombia's culinary hotspot

Cartagena, Colombia’s charming Caribbean port, may not have been a food capital before, but it's quickly making a name for itself.

Renowned chefs are crafting world-class dishes with a Colombian twist, complemented by expertly mixed cocktails.

With its stunning colonial architecture, vibrant streets, and lively nightlife, Cartagena is rapidly becoming the ultimate destination to eat, enjoy life, and dance until dawn.

Carmen

Tucked behind an unassuming facade, Carmen unfolds around a lush patio, adorned with twinkling fairy lights that whisk diners away into a jungle oasis.

Owners Rob Pevitts and Carmen Angel, a husband-and-wife duo, blend traditional Colombian ingredients like yucca, plantain, and seafood with influences from Asian, French, and Caribbean kitchens.

Both trained at Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Academy in San Francisco, the couple showcases their expertise in dishes like yucca croquettes with a liquid foie gras and truffle center, poached prawns with black bisque and creamy cilantro rice, and crab cakes with plantain and wasabi mayo.

The drinks are expertly crafted, including some of the finest rum punch in the city. Served in ceramic cups with meticulous attention to garnish, it’s the perfect finishing touch.

Only have one night in Cartagena? This is the place to dine.

Carmen, Calle 38 # 8-19, Calle del Santísimo, +57 5 664 5116

Alma

Housed in a historic colonial mansion now part of the Casa San Augustin Hotel, Alma offers an elegant bar and poolside dining under the glow of candlelight.

Chef Heberto Eljach’s diverse menu ranges from traditional Colombian ceviche to classic international fare like New York strip steak and seafood spaghetti.

Popular dishes include the grilled lobster tail with lobster puree, as well as the fisherman’s rice—a Colombian twist on Spanish paella that’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor. While seafood is the star at Alma, there are also hearty meat and poultry options for land lovers.

Alma, Calle de la Universidad, No. 36-44., +57 5 6810050

La Cevicheria

This iconic spot gained fame when Anthony Bourdain featured it on Parts Unknown years ago, yet its quality has only improved with time.

While ceviche is abundant in Cartagena, La Cevicheria distinguishes itself with a wide selection and generous portions that make it a standout.

This no-frills spot, adorned with blue and white tiles, is small but always lively. Pair your ceviche with a classic Club Colombia beer or a glass of local wine.

La Cevicheria doesn't accept reservations, so it’s best to arrive early to beat the crowds. Couples might snag a seat at the shared tables, but the restaurant is well-equipped for larger groups.

Even if you have to wait in line, it’s absolutely worth it.

La Cevicheria, Calle Stuart, 714, +57 5 660 1492

Di Silvio Trattoria

Craving a break from seafood? Step out of the walled city and head into Getsemani, the lively neighborhood where locals go to party.

Just off Plaza de Trinidad, this Italian gem is housed in a former soap factory. The half-roof design adds to the charm, with twinkling fairy lights and a live band setting the mood.

The restaurant serves classic Italian pasta dishes and boasts the thinnest, crispiest pizzas in the city.

Di Silvio trattoria, Calle de la Sierpe con San Juan esquina, 9A-08, Getsemani, +57 5 660 2205

Maria Bonita Taqueria Cantina

Just around the corner from Di Silvio, Maria Bonita offers a little taste of Mexico in the heart of the city.

This bar/restaurant boasts a diverse selection of bite-sized tacos, including octopus, prawn, chorizo, and pulled pork. Vegetarian options are available, with tacos filled with aubergine, mushrooms, and cactus.

The interior features an eclectic mix of vibrant art and graffiti, creating a lively atmosphere, especially when paired with frozen margaritas served on tap.

After spending a few hours here mingling with the locals, it’s easy to keep the vibe going next door at Demente, one of the most relaxed and trendy bars in the area.

Maria Bonita, Plaza de la Trinidad, Getsemani, Cartagena, +57 311 4624318

Maria

For a twist on tradition, there’s Maria, where Colombian chef Alejandro Ramirez reimagines classic dishes with a stylish, contemporary flair.

The interior is bold and eye-catching, with tiger print murals covering all four walls and a chandelier made of pineapples. The menu blends global influences, from Asian-inspired ceviche to a unique take on British fish and chips.

The drinks menu is just as creative, offering cocktails like the Cactus Margarita and Mango Mojito. These vibrant, flavorful drinks make for an excellent aperitif.

Maria is the perfect spot to kick off the evening before heading a few doors down to Alquimico, a cozy bar housed in a former shoe store, where you can drink and dance the night away.

Maria, Calle del Colegio # 34-60 Local 2, Centro Histórico, +57 (5) 660 53 80