Cartagena, the crown jewel of Colombia’s Caribbean coast, is a city bursting with color, music, and exquisite cuisine. Whether you’re exploring its colonial streets or watching the sunset over the sea, dining in Cartagena is an essential part of the experience. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best restaurants in Cartagena, showcasing where to find traditional flavors, creative chefs, and the best Colombian food in Cartagena.
Before you dive into its culinary treasures, make your stay truly special by choosing the perfect accommodation — from elegant suites at The Collection, one of the finest luxury places to stay in Cartagena, to the stylish comfort of Wynwood House Cartagena, offering some of the most authentic places to stay in Cartagena.
Celele – The Heart of Contemporary Caribbean Cuisine
Located on Calle del Espíritu Santo in Getsemaní, Celele is often regarded as one of the best restaurants in Cartagena. Led by chef Jaime Rodríguez, it’s known for reinventing Colombian Caribbean gastronomy through innovation and respect for local traditions.
Celele’s menu celebrates the biodiversity of the region, using ingredients from small local producers, fishermen, and farmers. Signature dishes often include unique native fruits, seafood, and roots presented with fine-dining flair.
The restaurant’s impact goes beyond food — Celele fosters sustainability and cultural preservation, earning a spot among Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2020 and the “Miele One to Watch Award” in 2019.
- Must-try dish: Octopus with coconut and tropical spices.
- Address: Calle del Espíritu Santo, Getsemaní.
Carmen Cartagena – A Culinary Journey Through Colombia
For an elegant and creative dining experience, Carmen Cartagena stands out as a must-visit. Located on Calle del Santísimo, this restaurant merges modern techniques with Colombian ingredients to craft a menu that feels like a journey across the country.
Run by chef Rob Pevitts and Carmen Ángel, it’s known for dishes that pay homage to Colombia’s diverse regions — from Pacific seafood to Amazonian fruits. Carmen’s tasting menus combine flavor, texture, and storytelling, creating one of the most refined experiences for lovers of the best Colombian food in Cartagena.
- Must-try dish: Catch of the day with coconut rice and Amazonian açaí sauce.
- Address: Calle 38 #8-19, Calle del Santísimo.
Alma – Traditional Cartagena Flavors with Coastal Sophistication
Inside the luxurious Hotel Casa San Agustín, Alma captures the soul of Cartagena’s cuisine. Its menu reimagines the dishes that define the Caribbean coast — coconut milk stews, seafood, and tropical desserts — served in an elegant colonial setting.
Chef Heberto Eljach takes inspiration from ancestral recipes, transforming them into dishes that honor the region’s heritage. The restaurant’s warm ambiance, combined with its impeccable service, makes it a favorite for romantic dinners and special occasions.
- Must-try dish: Lobster with passionfruit and coconut rice.
- Address: Calle de la Universidad #36-44.
Candé – 100% Cartagena Heritage
For a true taste of local identity, Candé is the embodiment of Cartagena’s spirit. Located in the San Diego neighborhood, this restaurant celebrates traditional recipes and live music performances that bring the city’s folklore to life.
The dining experience here is immersive: diners enjoy local dance and music shows while savoring recipes passed down through generations. From coconut shrimp to fried fish with patacones, every plate tells a story of Cartagena’s cultural roots.
- Must-try dish: Fried red snapper with coconut rice and sweet plantains.
- Address: Cra 10 #39-02, Barrio San Diego.
Mary Zielo – Modern Colombian Culinary Art
Located in Casa La Escribana on Calle del Arzobispado, Mary Zielo is a culinary gem that blends creativity with authenticity. This restaurant reinterprets traditional Colombian dishes using modern techniques and elegant presentations.
Inspired by Colombia’s regional flavors, chef Mary Zielo creates dishes that reflect her travels across the country — from the Andes to the Caribbean coast. The result is a unique gastronomic expression of the nation’s diversity and pride.
- Must-try dish: Duck confit with guava glaze and plantain purée.
- Address: Cra. 5 #34-63, Casa La Escribana.
Beyond Dining – Experiencing Cartagena by Night
After enjoying one of these incredible restaurants, take time to explore Cartagena’s charming streets and nightlife. Walk through Getsemaní, where live music fills the air, or along the old city walls for stunning views of the Caribbean.
Then, return to comfort and sophistication at The Collection, one of the most exclusive luxury places to stay in Cartagena, or relax in the cozy modern suites of Wynwood House Cartagena, a top choice among boutique places to stay in Cartagena.
Why Cartagena Is a Food Lover’s Paradise
Cartagena’s food scene captures the soul of Colombia — colorful, diverse, and full of life. From fine dining to street eats, the city’s culinary landscape connects past and present, ocean and land, simplicity and sophistication.
Whether you’re savoring the refined creations at Carmen or the home-style comfort of Candé, each restaurant contributes to Cartagena’s reputation as one of South America’s top culinary destinations.
FAQs about the Best Restaurants in Cartagena
1. What is the best restaurant in Cartagena for authentic Colombian food?
Celele and Candé are top choices for authentic Colombian and Caribbean flavors, offering dishes that highlight local ingredients and traditions.
2. Which restaurant offers the best fine dining experience?
Carmen Cartagena and Alma provide elegant settings and tasting menus that rival top international restaurants.
3. Is it necessary to book a table in advance?
Yes, most top restaurants in Cartagena recommend reservations, especially on weekends or during high tourist seasons.
