Must-try Dishes
Arepas de Huevo - Egg Arepas (crispy and savory) - These arepas are deep-fried and stuffed with a whole egg, creating a deliciously crunchy outer layer. Locals often enjoy them for breakfast with a bit of ají sauce, usually from roadside stands.
Bandeja Paisa - Paisa Platter (hearty mixed plate) - A substantial dish featuring rice, beans, minced meat, chicharrón, plantains, and avocado, making for a filling meal. It's typically enjoyed for lunch in traditional eateries, with families sharing the large portions.
Patacones - Tostones (fried green plantains) - Thick slices of fried green plantains, smashed and fried again until crispy, usually served with a garlic sauce. Street vendors often sell them, and they’re perfect to snack on while strolling through the city.
Posta Negra - Black Beef (cooked in a sweet sauce) - This beef dish is marinated, slow-cooked, and coated in a unique sweet and slightly spicy sauce, served with rice and fried banana. Often found in family-run restaurants, it’s a meal that locals savor during special occasions.
Pescado Frito - Fried Fish (crispy whole fish) - Freshly caught fish fried until golden and typically served with coconut rice and salad, making for a satisfying dinner. Locals flock to seaside restaurants, especially on weekends to enjoy this dish while unwinding by the coast.
Buñuelos - Cheese Fritters (fried cheese balls) - These golden, lightly sweet cheese balls are crispy outside and soft inside, found at almost every family gathering during holidays. A common breakfast or snack, they’re best enjoyed piping hot from street vendors.
Yuca con Hogao - Yuca with Sauce (root vegetable dish) - Boiled yuca served with a rich hogao sauce made of tomatoes and onions, offering a comforting and filling vegetarian option. It’s popular during festive occasions, particularly in December, when it’s abundant and sharing is customary.
Desserts & Drinks
Agua de Panela - Agua de Panela (sweet drink) - This refreshing drink is made from panela (unrefined cane sugar) dissolved in hot water, often served with a slice of lime or lemon. Locals love to enjoy it during warm afternoons or when they're feeling under the weather, as it’s known for its soothing properties.
Arequipe - Arequipe (dulce de leche) - Creamy, caramel-like spread made from slowly cooked milk and sugar, typically enjoyed straight from the jar or as a layer in desserts. You’ll often find it at family gatherings or celebrations, and it pairs really well with breakfast pastries.
Club Colombia - Club Colombia (pale lager) - This smooth Colombian beer is made from malted barley and has a light citrusy flavor. It’s a favorite among locals when hanging out at a bar or during barbecues, especially on weekends—so be mindful of enjoying it during late afternoon when everyone is unwinding.
Postre de Natas - Postre de Natas (cream dessert) - A rich dessert made from layers of cream, sugar, and sometimes topped with aromatic cinnamon, served chilled. It’s a typical treat at family gatherings or special occasions, often bringing that nostalgic homemade touch to any celebration.
Raspao - Raspado (shaved ice) - This delightful cold dessert consists of finely shaved ice drizzled with fruity syrups, often topped with condensed milk. Street vendors sell it along the boardwalk, especially during hot summer days—just don’t forget to specify your favorite syrup or you might just get the default fruity mix!