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Cartagena food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Cartagena.
What to eat in Cartagena
6 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Ceviche de Chipi Chipi
A delicate ceviche made with tiny sea snails, marinated in lime juice with onion, cilantro, and a hint of chili. It's a refreshing taste of the Caribbean coast.
Arroz de Coco
Fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, often served as a side dish with seafood. Its subtle sweetness complements the savory flavors of Cartagena.
Posta Negra
A slow-cooked beef brisket in a rich, dark, slightly sweet sauce made with panela (unrefined cane sugar) and spices. It's a hearty and flavorful main course.
Arepa de Huevo
A deep-fried cornmeal dough stuffed with a whole egg and seasoned meat, then fried until golden. This popular street food is a perfect grab-and-go snack.
Pescado Frito con Patacón
Whole fried fish (often snapper or mojarra) served with crispy, flattened, and twice-fried plantains. It's a quintessential coastal Colombian meal.
Sopa de Mariscos
A rich and flavorful seafood soup brimming with fresh catches from the Caribbean, often with a hint of coconut milk and spices. It’s a comforting taste of the sea.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Bohemian and vibrant, known for its street art, lively plazas, and a mix of traditional and modern eateries.
Elegant and historic, offering charming courtyards and upscale restaurants tucked within colonial architecture.
Modern and bustling, with a Miami-esque feel, featuring beachfront restaurants and international cuisine.
Authentic fishing village vibe, offering fresh seafood cooked by locals right on the beach.
Dietary notes
Cartagena's cuisine is heavily based on seafood, plantains, and rice, making it relatively easy for gluten-free diners. However, many dishes are fried or incorporate meat, so vegetarian and vegan options can be limited, requiring specific requests at some establishments.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is generally not included and a 10% service charge is common in restaurants; if not included, it's customary to leave it.
- •While credit cards are accepted in many tourist areas, it's wise to carry cash for street food vendors and smaller establishments.
- •Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially in the Centro Histórico, particularly on weekends.
- •Dress code is generally casual, but slightly more formal attire is appreciated for upscale dining in the historic center.
- •Lunch is the main meal of the day, often enjoyed between 1 PM and 3 PM, while dinner is typically lighter and eaten later.