Must-try Dishes
Arepas de Huevo - Egg Arepas (savory breakfast) - These arepas are stuffed with a fried egg nestled in a crispy cornmeal shell. Locals often enjoy them as a hearty breakfast, usually paired with a hot chocolate for a comforting start to the day.
Empanadas - Savory Pastries (street food) - These hand-held pastries are filled with beef, potatoes, and spices, then deep-fried to golden perfection. Food stalls and street vendors are the go-to spots for these, especially in the late afternoon when people crave a quick snack on the go.
Changua - Milk Soup (traditional Colombian dish) - This unique soup features eggs, milk, and green onions, creating a creamy, comforting bowl. It’s commonly eaten for breakfast, often while gathered with family, and is perfect for warming up on chilly mornings.
Bandeja Paisa - Paisa Platter (hearty main course) - A bountiful plate consisting of beans, rice, avocado, ground beef, sausage, fried egg, and plantain. Often shared among friends or family, it can be a good choice for lunch or dinner, but be wary of the size—I once underestimated and couldn't finish!
Mutis Coctel - Potato Salad Cocktail (unusual combination) - This surprising dish layers creamy potato salad with avocado and is often served in a cocktail glass, garnished with a slice of lime. It’s an unexpected twist that many locals savor as a starter or light lunch option.
Sancocho - Hearty Stew (seasonal variation) - A thick stew made with chicken or beef, yuca, plantains, and vegetables, slow-cooked to perfection. It’s especially popular on weekends, where families gather for leisurely communal meals, but make sure to come early—some places run out by lunch!
Ajiaco - Chicken Soup (local specialty) - A comforting chicken soup enriched with local potatoes and herbs, topped with avocado and capers. Beloved on chilly days, locals enjoy it in casual eateries or at home, usually with a side of rice, making it a warm family favorite.
Desserts & Drinks
Chocolate Caliente - Chocolate Caliente (hot chocolate) - A rich and thick hot chocolate made with dark chocolate, milk, and sometimes a hint of cinnamon. It's a favorite at breakfast, often enjoyed with slices of salty cheese for a sweet-savory combo.
Aguapanela - Aguapanela (sugar cane drink) - This refreshing drink is made by dissolving panela (raw sugarcane) in hot water, sometimes served with lime or curd. It's particularly popular during hot afternoons in Bogotá, often enjoyed while chatting with friends at a local park.
Refajo - Refajo (beer cocktail) - A mix of local beer and fruity soda (like Colombiana), creating a sweet and bubbly drink with a slight kick. It’s the go-to for daytime celebrations or on weekends at barbecues with friends, especially when the weather turns warm.
Alfajor - Alfajor (cookie sandwich) - Two buttery cookie rounds sandwiched with a generous layer of dulce de leche and rolled in coconut. You can find these delightful treats at bakeries year-round but they're especially popular during festivals and family gatherings.
Chocoramo - Chocoramo (chocolate-covered cakes) - A delightful snack cake covered in chocolate and filled with a soft cake center. Often enjoyed as an afternoon treat, the cold varieties are especially refreshing on warm days and have a cult following in Bogotá's street fairs.
By the way, don’t be surprised if you find locals drinking hot chocolate at any time of year; it’s a comforting tradition that transcends the weather!
