Best Local & Traditional Foods to Try in Cartagena
Discover the 6 best local and traditional foods to try in Cartagena. Get AI-powered recommendations for authentic dishes, traditional cuisine, and the best restaurants.
Arepa de Huevo
This iconic local dish consists of a deep-fried cornmeal arepa filled with a whole egg and often served with a spicy sauce. It's a beloved breakfast item and can also be enjoyed as a snack throughout the day.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Arepas are a staple in Colombian cuisine, particularly in coastal regions like Cartagena.
Where to try it
Bandeja Paisa
A hearty traditional dish that features a platter of rice, beans, ground meat, chicharrón, avocado, plantain, and sometimes a fried egg. This dish is a favorite among locals for its rich flavors and variety.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch
Cultural Significance
Originally from the Antioquia region, it reflects the diverse agricultural products of Colombia.
Where to try it
Ceviche de Camarón
A refreshing dish made with fresh shrimp marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, cilantro, and sometimes served with patacones (fried green plantains). It's a popular choice for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch
Cultural Significance
Ceviche is a coastal dish that showcases the fresh seafood available in the Caribbean.
Where to try it
Cocadas
These sweet coconut treats are made from grated coconut, sugar, and sometimes flavored with lime or vanilla. They are often sold by street vendors and make for a perfect snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Cocadas are a traditional sweet that reflects the abundance of coconuts in the Caribbean region.
Where to try it
Bocadillo
A popular Colombian sweet made from guava paste, often enjoyed as a snack or dessert. It's typically wrapped in a banana leaf and can be found in various local markets.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Bocadillo is a traditional sweet that highlights the tropical fruits of Colombia.
Where to try it
Limonada de Coco
A refreshing coconut lemonade made with fresh coconut milk, lime juice, and sugar. It's a perfect drink to cool off in the tropical heat of Cartagena.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
This drink embodies the tropical flavors of the Caribbean coastline and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.