Where to eat & drink in Cartagena
Strolling, food, and dancing are probably the city’s main three attractions — not necessarily in that order. Here are our favorite food and drink spots to check out while you’re in town.
La Paletteria
If you ask David what his favorite place in Cartagena is, he’ll almost certainly point you in the direction of La Paletteria. Whether you think you’re into dessert or not, this place is still well worth a mid-afternoon stop-in. Rows and rows of delightfully fruity popsicles await in perfect formation. (Our favorites: Coco and Galleta de la Abuela.)
Carmen
Have only one free night in Cartagena? Go here. Everything about this spot — food, cocktails, ambiance — is deserving of your visit, particularly if you’re into checking out Colombia’s fine dining scene. Do make sure you make reservations ahead of time, though, and if you can, try to get seated on their “mirador” roof terrace.
La Vitrola
Much is said about this legendary restaurant, but the story that really stuck with Gaby is that Luis Miguel apparently loves this place. Needless to say, Gaby now loves this place also. Go here for the mojitos, Cuban son, surf-and-turf menu, and the quintessentially Caribbean old-school vibe. (Note: men are required to wear long pants.)
Alma
This gorgeously designed little restaurant inside Hotel Casa San Agustín is elegant, quaint, and laid back all at the same time — with a menu that’s not only excellent but affordable as well (their 3-course prix fixe menu costs around $25 USD). Take advantage of the option to dine al fresco and sit next to their beautiful courtyard.
Colombitalia Arepas
The name of this arepas spot in Getsemaní makes zero sense, but that is of little importance, because this stall has hands-down the best arepas in town, cooked fresh to order, with mysteriously delicious bonus sauces on the side. Add a cold cerveza, and you’ve got yourself a lunch of champions for under four bucks!
Demente
Also in Getsemaní, Demente is a great destination to share delicious tapas and pizza, drink strong drinks, and people watch non-stop given its location right off Plaza de Trinidad. The whole atmosphere is chill and unassuming, and you’ll be sure to enjoy their gigantic metal rocking chairs.
El Barón
This is probably the best cocktail bar in Cartagena, so while they also serve coffee and food, go there for the booze. The bar is located right by the lovely Plaza San Pedro Claver, so if you can, get seated outside — there’s no better place to take your time savoring their creative spirit combinations.
Alquímico
Alquímico is spread out over three floors of a beautifully restored colonial mansion. The first floor is dedicated to pre-dinner aperitifs, the second is for dinner, and the last – the famous rooftop – for getting the party started over al fresco aguardiente cocktails. A definite must while you’re in town.