Browse by Cuisine
Restaurants in Cartagena
Showing 12 of 12 restaurantsSignature Dishes
Cartagena's cuisine is characterized by its fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and bold flavors. Coconut rice, plantains, and fresh fish are staples. Dishes often incorporate sofrito, a base of onions, garlic, and peppers, and are seasoned with local herbs and spices.
Arroz con Coco
Coconut rice, cooked in coconut milk and often sweetened with panela (unrefined cane sugar). It's a sweet and savory side dish that perfectly complements seafood.
Pescado Frito
Fried fish, typically red snapper (pargo rojo) or mojarra, seasoned with salt, pepper, and lime. It's usually served whole with patacones (fried green plantains) and arroz con coco.
Sopa de Mariscos
Seafood soup, a hearty and flavorful broth filled with shrimp, clams, mussels, and other seafood. It's often enriched with coconut milk and vegetables.
Arepas de Huevo
Deep-fried arepas (corn cakes) filled with a whole egg. A popular street food snack.
Cazuela de Mariscos
Seafood casserole, a creamy and rich dish baked with various seafood, coconut milk, and vegetables. Similar to Sopa de Mariscos but thicker and baked.
Langosta al Ajillo
Lobster in garlic sauce, a luxurious dish featuring tender lobster bathed in a savory garlic butter sauce, often served with rice and plantains.
Local Tips
To fully enjoy the culinary experience in Cartagena, keep these tips in mind:
Be Adventurous
Don't be afraid to try new things! Sample the local specialties and explore the diverse flavors of Cartagena's cuisine.
Eat Seafood Fresh
Cartagena is known for its fresh seafood. Make sure to ask where the seafood comes from and how fresh it is before ordering.
Negotiate Prices
In markets and with street vendors, it's often acceptable to negotiate prices, especially for souvenirs and handicrafts.
Stay Hydrated
Cartagena is a hot and humid city. Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated, especially when exploring the city during the day.
Try the Fruit Juices
Cartagena offers a dazzling array of fresh fruit juices. Sample exotic flavors like lulo, maracuyá, and guanabana.
About Cartagena
Food History
Cartagena's cuisine is a vibrant tapestry woven from Spanish, African, and indigenous influences. Spanish colonizers brought ingredients like beef, pork, and rice, while enslaved Africans introduced techniques like deep-frying and ingredients such as plantains and coconuts. Indigenous traditions contributed seafood preparation methods and the use of local fruits and vegetables, creating a unique culinary identity.
Food Culture
Food in Cartagena is more than just sustenance; it's a central part of the city's culture and social life. Meals are often shared with family and friends, and the preparation of food is seen as an act of love and hospitality.
Palenqueras
Women from Palenque, the first free black town in the Americas, are a common sight in Cartagena. They wear colorful dresses and often sell fruits, sweets, and other traditional snacks.
Street Food Culture
Cartagena has a vibrant street food scene, with vendors selling everything from arepas and empanadas to fruit salads and juices. Eating street food is a great way to experience the local culture.
Market Culture
Visiting local markets like the Mercado de Bazurto is a great way to immerse yourself in the sights, smells, and flavors of Cartagena. You can find fresh produce, seafood, and local specialties.
Importance of Coconut
Coconut is ubiquitous in Cartagena cuisine, reflecting the region's tropical climate and African influence. It's used in savory and sweet dishes, and the refreshing coconut water is a popular drink.