Cartagena is known to be the culinary capital of Colombia. I knew this going into my trip and yet I still managed to be blown away by the creative creations and stunning presentation at each restaurant I tried. This coastal town truly has a foodie scene worth the travel! I’ve narrowed down my top picks so that anyone who is visiting Cartagena for a long weekend knows exactly what restaurants and bars need to be enjoyed!
Best Restaurants in the Walled City
Carmen
Carmen was my favorite dining experience while in Cartagena. I loved my dinner so much that I ended up going back for lunch the next day. All their drinks come with an interactive pour and a unique presentation, not to mention they taste as equally good as they look. Their seafood empanadas and conch croquettes were a unique twist on Spanish classics. Make sure to ask to be seated in their lush green courtyard!
Maria
Maria offers contemporary Colombian cuisine with a slight Asian fusion. They incorporate tangy flavors into Caribbean classics which makes this a fun and unique stop on your foodie tour! Their dining room is decorated with bright wall paper featuring tigers while posh chandeliers hang from their ceilings. A great spot for a fancy evening out in the walled city!
Alma
It’s hard not to be instantly impressed by the atmosphere as soon as you walk into Alma’s courtyard. All of the candles, the turquoise blue pools, and the live salsa band bring the room to life making for an ultra-romantic ambiance. The dishes offer a unique take on traditional Colombian and Caribbean cuisine and don’t hold back when it comes to the presentation. I indulged in their ceviche marinated in coconut foam and served in an actual coconut shell. Another favorite was their Spanish grilled octopus served atop a bed of truffle potato puree.
La Cevicheria
Made famous by Anthony Bourdain’s visit on his show ‘No Reservations’, but for good reason. La Cevicheria offers fresh Ceviche all day and a great patio to relax at!
La Paleteria
Ok so La Paleteria is not a restaurant but it should really be on your radar! They offer sooo many delicious flavors of cream based and fruit filed popsicles. This place offers the perfect way to cool off while enjoying a sweet treat! If only I had found this spot on day one of my trip.
Best Restaurants in Getsemani
Dona Lola
Located in the Lola Hotel, Dona Lola serves all the Caribbean classics. I indulged in their ceviche and a local catch of the day! They have a formal seating that’s great for a nice dinner out in Getsemani area. The dining room is decorated with funky art, and mirrors covering the walls. They also have a lively indoor/outdoor terrace with major bohemian vibes to match the neighborhood it sits in. If you do decide to stop in for a lunch or dinner, make sure to head up to their rooftop for a drink at some point! They have a gorgeous and unique view of the city.
Celele
Located off the beaten path in the Getsemeni neighborhood, Celele has been gaining a lot of attention for their dishes unique presentation. “Proyect Caribe” reads across their menu, meaning Caribbean Lab project. They aim to elevate the Caribbean classics you’ll see on many of the Cartagena menus. The restaurant is cozy and vibrant like the streets of Getsemani.
Demente
Demente is well located in the heart of Getsemani at Plaza De la Trinidad. Visit this cool Tapas Bar for lunch if you are looking for quality eats in this cool neighborhood!
Where to Sip in The Walled City & Getsemani
Movich Hotel
Something that is always going to make my itinerary is a rooftop with killer views of the city. In Cartagena that is the Movich Hotel’s Rooftop bar. Make sure to stop by for sunset cocktails to take in views of the city skyline and the major landmarks.
El Mirador
Another great option for sunset cocktails is going to be El Mirador which overlooks the Clock Tower Square and Pegasus Pier. Their drinks are both delicious and beautiful. The atmosphere is very lively as they played reggaeton hits the entire time I was there!
Alquimico
Alquimico is well known for their extravagant mixology. One of the most popular drinks on the menu is presented to you in an encapsulated smoke in This is a great spot for pre-dinner drinks, especially if you are looking to escape the heat for a bit before heading over to a terrace dinner.
Palenqueras
You will easily recognize this spot for the vibrant murals that cover the building inside and out! Go here to grab a drink on the balcony and people watch the visitors of Plaza De la Trinidad.
