Colombia is a dream destination for food lovers. Its cuisine is as diverse as the country itself, rich in flavors and heavily influenced by Indigenous, Spanish, and African cultures. Whether you’re savoring a street snack in Cartagena or having dinner in a fine restaurant in Bogotá, you’ll find plenty of great things to try. Here’s a guide to help you navigate what to eat and where to eat in Colombia.
Must-Try Dishes in Colombia
Arepas
Arepas are a staple across Colombia, made from ground maize dough or cornmeal. They come in many varieties and can be eaten at any time of the day. You’ll find them stuffed with cheese, meats, or avocado. The best part? Every region has its own twist. For example, “Arepa de Huevo” from the coastal regions is fried and filled with an egg and ground beef. They are hearty and satisfying, perfect for breakfast or a quick snack.
Bandeja Paisa
If you want a meal that fills you up for the entire day, try Bandeja Paisa. Originating from the Antioquia region, this dish is a true feast. It includes chorizo, ground beef, fried plantains, avocado, red beans, rice, and even a fried egg on top. It’s undoubtedly one of the most traditional foods in the country and ideal if you’re really hungry.
Sancocho
Sancocho is a traditional soup that varies by region, but the basics are similar everywhere: a hearty broth made with root vegetables like plantains, yuca, and potatoes, along with meats such as chicken, beef, pork, or even fish. The soup simmers slowly to absorb all the flavors, and it’s usually paired with rice and avocado. On colder days, it’s the perfect comfort food.
Ajíaco
Ajíaco is a soup that’s particularly famous in Bogotá. It’s made with chicken, corn, three kinds of potatoes, and flavored with guasca, a local herb. A staple of Bogotá’s cuisine, it’s served with rice, avocado, and capers on the side. The blend of flavors from chicken and the starch from the potatoes makes this dish super comforting.
Lechona
Lechona is roasted pork that’s stuffed with rice, peas, and spices. It’s usually served during large gatherings and family celebrations. The skin is crispy, and the filling is packed with flavor. This dish is particularly popular in the Tolima region, and it is often sold by vendors at local markets or as street food during festivals.
Street Food in Colombia
The best way to explore a country’s food scene is by hitting the streets. Street food in Colombia is cheap, tasty, and easy to find. Here are some must-try street snacks:
Empanadas
Empanadas might be small, but they pack a punch. These deep-fried pastries are filled with meats, potatoes, rice, cheese, or even seafood, depending on where you are. In Colombia, they are often served with aji, a spicy dipping sauce. You can find them everywhere—from small street carts to market stalls.
Churros
If you have a sweet tooth, try Churros. These fried dough sticks are crispy on the outside and soft inside. You can have them plain or filled with arequipe, Colombia’s version of caramel. Sprinkled with sugar, they make for a perfect quick snack while you wander around the city.
Buñuelos
Buñuelos are small, round fritters made from a dough of cheese and flour. They are popular around Christmas but are available year-round from food vendors. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, buñuelos are fried to golden perfection and can be eaten for breakfast or as a snack along with hot chocolate or coffee.
Obleas
Obleas are sweet snacks made from thin, crispy wafers filled with arequipe, whipped cream, or cheese. They’re often sold by the piece in paper-thin layers for you to assemble yourself. They’re particularly popular in the Andean regions and a great street snack to have while walking around cities like Bogotá or Medellín.
Regional Specialties
Coastal Cuisine
The Caribbean and Pacific coasts of Colombia are known for their seafood dishes. Fish, shrimp, and lobster are often grilled, fried, or stewed in coconut milk. Coconut rice is a common side dish, adding a sweet taste to the naturally salty flavors of the seafood. Cazuela de Mariscos, a creamy seafood stew, is another must-try in coastal areas.
Amazonian Cuisine
In the Amazon region, the food focuses heavily on river fish and tropical fruits. One interesting dish to try is Mojojoy, which are fat worms either grilled or fried. They might not be for everyone, but they’re packed with protein. Exotic fruits like açaí, copoazú, and guanabana are also common and delicious when blended into juice or creamy desserts.
Andean Highlands Cuisine
The mountainous regions of the Andes have hearty meals with ingredients native to the area. Papa Criolla, a small yellow potato, is a local favorite, often used in soups or as a side. Tamales here are larger than in other parts of the country and are packed with rice, several types of meats, and vegetables all wrapped in a plantain leaf.
Where to Eat: From Markets to Fine Dining
Local Markets
If you want to experience the authentic side of Colombian food, local markets are where you should go. In cities like Medellín and Bogotá, traditional markets like “Plaza de Mercado de Paloquemao” offer a wide selection of fresh ingredients, street food stalls, and small eateries. You can find everything from freshly made soups to tropical fruits you’ve never heard of.
Street Vendors
Street vendors provide some of the most affordable food in Colombia. Don’t be afraid to try out what they’re dishing up. Street food is usually safe and delicious. Popular street food items like empanadas, arepas, and obleas are quick to grab and taste amazing.
Coffee Shops
No trip to Colombia would be complete without a visit to its coffee shops. Colombia produces some of the world’s best coffee, and in cities like Bogotá and Medellín, you’ll find tons of trendy cafes serving locally sourced brews. These cafes often carry great desserts like tres leches cake, which pairs perfectly with a cup of strong Colombian coffee.
Fine Dining
If you’re looking for an upscale experience, Colombia doesn’t disappoint. Bogotá and Medellín have a growing fine-dining scene with chefs integrating traditional Colombian ingredients into gourmet dishes. Restaurants like El Cielo in Medellín and Leo in Bogotá are pushing the boundaries of Colombian cuisine. If you’re willing to splurge, these are great places to go for a memorable meal.
Tips for Dining in Colombia
Don’t Skip the Sides
Colombians love their side dishes. Rice, beans, plantains, and avocado are often served alongside the main meal. Be sure to enjoy them—they’re huge parts of the experience.
Spicy Food
Although Colombia is in Latin America, the food here is not overly spicy compared to countries like Mexico. When you want a bit more heat, ask for “aji,” a tangy, spicy sauce commonly served on the side. It goes perfectly with things like empanadas or sancocho.
Portions Are Huge
Meals in Colombia are often generous, especially for dishes like Bandeja Paisa. If you’re not super hungry, you might want to share a meal or save part of it for later.
Conclusion
There’s more to Colombian food than just arepas and empanadas. From hearty soups to fresh seafood dishes on the coast, Colombia’s cuisine offers something for everyone. Whether you’re grabbing street food or enjoying a gourmet meal in one of Bogotá’s finest restaurants, you’ll only scratch the surface of what this country’s food scene has to offer. Get out there and enjoy the flavors of Colombia!
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