Must-try Dishes
Arepas con Huevo - Arepas with Egg - A delightful cornmeal cake stuffed with a fried egg, deep-fried to a golden crisp. Locals often enjoy it as a hearty breakfast on the go; you’ll find food vendors selling it at street corners in the morning.
Bandeja Paisa - Paisa Platter - A filling mix of grilled steak, chicharrón, sausage, rice, beans, and avocado, often topped with a fried egg. It’s the quintessential lunch dish enjoyed during family gatherings or special occasions, and it’s hefty enough to share (or not!).
Empanadas - Empanadas - Savory turnovers filled with beef, potatoes, or chicken, perfectly flaky on the outside. These are a staple of Medellin street food, often served with ají (spicy sauce) for dipping; grabbing a couple as a quick snack is common.
La Sopa de Mondongo - Tripe Soup - This hearty tripe soup is simmered with various vegetables and spices, resulting in a rich flavor. Natives love to have this dish during rainy days, and it’s a frequent order at local eateries.
Mondongo con Plátano - Tripe with Plantain - Defined by its tender tripe and sweet plantain balance, this dish combines hearty flavors and textures. Often eaten during colder months, it's a comforting option for dinner that hints at nostalgia for many locals.
Patacón - Fried Green Plantain - Crunchy fried plantains usually served with guacamole or a meat filling. They're a popular side dish at family meals or street food stands and always a hit for late-night snacks.
Chicharrón - Crispy Pork Skin - Fried pork belly that’s irresistibly crunchy and savory, often enjoyed with aji and corn. It's a common occurrence for this to accompany a meal, traditionally eaten during festivities due to its rich flavors.
By the way, don’t forget to ask for a side of arequipe with your cheese; the locals swear by this unique combination!
Desserts & Drinks
Agua de Panela - Agua de Panela (cane sugar water) - A refreshing drink made by dissolving panela (unrefined cane sugar) in warm water, often served chilled with lime. Locals enjoy this at any time of the day, especially in the evening after work, as a casual and sweet way to wind down.
Elado - Elado (frozen treat) - A frozen dessert made with fresh fruit, such as maracuyá (passion fruit) or mango, blended with water and sugar, and served on a stick. You’ll find these icy delights mainly at street vendors, especially during hot afternoons, making them a perfect refresher on warm days.
Palenque - Palenque (local rum) - A smooth, locally distilled rum often enjoyed neat or mixed with cola, showcasing the sugar cane heritage of the region. Locals typically sip on this after dinner during celebrations or social gatherings, sharing stories and laughter around the table.
Bebida de Leche - Bebida de Leche (milk drink) - A sweet and creamy beverage made with milk, vanilla, and dissolved arequipe (Colombian caramel), served warm. This is particularly popular during festive occasions, often shared among families while reminiscing about traditions.
Buñuelo - Buñuelo (cheese fritter) - A light and airy pastry created from a dough made with cheese, yuca flour, and eggs, then deep-fried until golden. Traditionally consumed during Christmas, this delightful treat is often paired with hot chocolate, as families gather to celebrate. By the way, they can be surprisingly addictive, so don't hesitate to grab a few!