Cartagena, Colombia, a historic gem on the Caribbean coast, lures travelers with its colonial charm, vibrant culture and hopping culinary scene. Although you may be tempted to loll on the nearby beaches sipping on coconuts, the city’s dining options shouldn’t be missed. Explore all the riches the city has to offer with this guide to the 10 best restaurants in Cartagena, Colombia.
Among the cobbled streets and colorful facades of the Historic Center and the trendy vibes of areas like Getsemaní, discerning diners can find an assortment of restaurants that underscore Cartagena’s reputation as a culinary hotspot. Whether it’s sampling freshly caught seafood, enjoying Italian classics with a contemporary twist or savoring meticulously crafted tasting menus that celebrate the nation’s gastronomic heritage, Cartagena’s top restaurants are destinations in their own right, promising memorable experiences for every diner.
Fine dining
Cartagena, Colombia boasts an eclectic array of top-rated fine dining restaurants that offer experiences to all the senses, often paired with stunning waterfront views. As befitting one of the most popular resort cities in Latin America, Cartagena has an excellent upscale dining scene with numerous restaurants providing exquisite culinary experiences.
Celele
Celele Restaurante dedicates itself to showcasing the cultural and culinary heritage of Colombia’s Caribbean region. Known for their inventive twists on Caribbean cuisine, the restaurant’s standout dishes include a seafood ceviche tasting and the unique and beautifully presented flower salad. The chic decor features exposed brick, ambient lighting and beautiful murals. It’s better suited for adults, though it can accommodate even the youngest diners.
Mar y Zielo
Tucked away in the heart of Cartagena’s Old City, Mar y Zielo gastro-bar is a culinary jewel known for dishes like the fresh ceviche baronia and the inventive matrimonio that harmonizes local flavors with modern gastronomical preparations. With a romantic atmosphere perfect for couples, panoramic views from the rooftop bar and a cocktail menu with exotic updates on classics, it’s a sanctuary for intimate dining and memorable evenings. Kids are welcome despite the restaurant’s hip atmosphere.
Carmen restaurante
The second outpost of Medellin’s flagship restaurant, Carmen is renowned for its tasting menu and à la carte dishes that reflect Colombian diversity, complemented by an extensive wine and cocktail list. Located in a restored mansion, Carmen is elegant yet relaxed with wicker chairs and romantic courtyard seating. The tostones de carne — fried plantains with meat — is a must-try. Although Carmen can be considered one of the best restaurants in Cartagena, Colombia, it’s not very kid-friendly.
“We really enjoyed Mar y Zielo in Cartagena! The ambiance was super friendly and warm and my friends loved the seafood. Remember to dress nice for dinners to match the local vibe!”
— Shruthi Baskaran-Makanju, Rainy City Life
Popular local eateries
For those keen to immerse themselves in the local culture without taking on a second mortgage, Cartagena doesn’t disappoint with its eateries. From small grill houses to little street food stalls serving cheese arepas, it’s possible to dine at the best restaurants in Cartagena Colombia while on a budget.
La Mulata
For a place that offers a genuine taste of Colombian fare, with dishes packed full of Cartagena’s tropical flavors at affordable prices, head to La Mulata. Specializing in coastal cuisine, La Mulata’s signature dish is the sancocho de pescado con coco or fish stew with coconut milk. The atmosphere is cozy and charming with antique floor tiles, shuttered windows and whirring ceiling fans.
Di Silvio Trattoria
Located in the Getsemaní neighborhood, this mainstay provides a vibrant atmosphere and a fusion of Italian and Caribbean cuisine. Silvio Trattoria fuses Italian and Caribbean flavors in dishes like their seafood risotto, offering authentic Italian
La Cocina de Pepina
This lively, family-run restaurant is known for its delicious seafood dishes like the standout pescado frito, which is a fried whole fish. The decor features bright colors, handmade pottery and an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs cook, making it a great environment to bring your kids.
Coroncoro
Specializing in affordable Caribbean cuisine, Coroncoro’s rondon de mariscos is a superb seafood stew. Coroncora is a kid-friendly restaurant with tropical decor featuring bright colors and island vibes.
Waterfront dining options
Dining by the water is a must in Cartagena. Keeping in mind that you will often have to spend more for the view, there are still a few very good options to choose from for those who wish to dine with the wind in their hair:
Club de Pesca
This restaurant stands out for its seafood and a beautiful view over the marina. Set on the bay, Club de Pesca excels at seafood with dishes like pargo rojo al ajillo, made of snapper in garlic sauce. The harbor views are stunning from the breezy, nautical-themed dining room.
Marea by Rausch
Offering not only a breathtaking view of the historic city and sea but also a menu crafted by the renowned Rausch brothers, Marea truly celebrates seafood and international dishes. For those seeking a romantic waterfront dining experience, this famous dining option offers a coastal cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Erre de Ramón Freixa
Helmed by the two-Michelin-starred Spanish chef Ramón Freixa, this restaurant excels at Mediterranean-Caribbean fusion dishes like the catalan empanadas with tuna tartare. The sophisticated decor includes white linens, vaulted ceilings and romantic archways. It’s a special occasion spot best reserved for adults. Don’t skip the restaurant’s fantastic dessert list or its inventive tropical cocktails.
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Wrapping up
Whether they are exclusive or affordable, the best restaurants in Cartagena Colombia truly reflect its vibrant culture and history. Diners can savor everything from local traditional dishes to international cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and unique fruits. Whether you are exploring the city’s charming streets or celebrating a special occasion, Cartagena’s diverse selection ensures that you will find your perfect place hidden amongst the cobblestone streets or the city’s beaches.
Ksenia Prints is a food writer, blogger, photographer and recipe developer from Montreal, Canada. She blogs over At the Immigrant’s Table, a food blog showcasing healthy, beautiful international recipes for adventurous home cooks. She loves to highlight ethnic cuisines and immigrant cultures by working with chefs from relevant countries and adapting those recipes to gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, sugar-free and other dietary restrictions.