Colombia · tool
Medellín food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Medellín.
What to eat in Medellín
6 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Bandeja Paisa
A hearty platter featuring beans, rice, ground meat, chicharrón (fried pork belly), plantain, chorizo, and a fried egg. It's a substantial meal that showcases the region's agricultural bounty and rich flavors.
Ajiaco Santafereño
A rich chicken and potato soup, thickened with corn and flavored with guascas herbs, typically served with capers, cream, and avocado. While originating from Bogotá, it's widely enjoyed in Medellín.
Trucha
Fresh trout, often grilled or fried and served with a side of plantains and salad. The Antioquia region is known for its fish farms, making this a local specialty.
Arepa de Choclo
A sweet corn pancake filled with cheese, often grilled until golden. It's a popular snack or light meal, with a delightful balance of sweet and savory.
Sancocho
A thick, hearty soup made with various meats (chicken, beef, or pork), plantain, yucca, and corn, seasoned with cilantro. It's a comforting and flavorful staple.
Empanadas
Fried corn or wheat dough pastries filled with seasoned meat (often beef or chicken) and potato. They are a ubiquitous and delicious snack.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Trendy and cosmopolitan, with a wide range of international and Colombian cuisine, from upscale dining to casual cafes.
A more laid-back, local feel with excellent traditional Colombian restaurants, lively bars, and charming eateries along its wide avenues.
Authentic Antioquian charm, this municipality offers a more traditional dining experience with local favorites and a relaxed pace.
The bustling heart of the city, offering a mix of historic eateries, busy markets, and affordable local food options.
Dietary notes
Colombian cuisine is traditionally meat-heavy, with many dishes featuring beef, pork, and chicken. Vegetarian options are becoming more common in tourist areas, often centered around beans, rice, and vegetables, but can be limited in more traditional establishments. Gluten-free options are generally available due to the prevalence of corn and rice-based dishes.
Local etiquette
- •It is customary to say 'buen provecho' (enjoy your meal) before eating.
- •Tipping is not always included; a 10% service charge is often added to the bill, but an additional small tip for excellent service is appreciated.
- •While cards are accepted in many restaurants and larger establishments, carrying some cash is advisable for street food and smaller vendors.
- •Lunch is typically the main meal of the day, often eaten between 1 PM and 3 PM, while dinner is usually lighter and eaten later.
Plan the rest of your Medellín trip
Food guides elsewhere