Best Places to Eat in Cartagena: A Guide to Street Food and Beyond

Cartagena, Colombia is a vibrant city known for its colorful streets, historic architecture, and delicious cuisine. If you’re a foodie looking to explore the local gastronomy, here are some must-visit spots that offer a taste of Cartagena’s street food and beyond.

1. Plaza de Santo Domingo

This bustling square is home to numerous food vendors offering traditional Colombian street food. Try arepas (cornmeal cakes filled with cheese, meat, or beans), empanadas (fried or baked pastries filled with meat, seafood, or vegetables), and chicharrón (deep-fried pork rinds).

2. Getsemaní

This bohemian neighborhood is a foodie’s paradise. Visit Plaza de la Trinidad for street food stalls selling local delicacies such as cocidas (a hearty stew made with chicken, pork, and various vegetables) and tinto con salchicha (Colombian coffee with a sausage). Don’t forget to try the fritanga, a type of street food restaurant that serves an assortment of fried dishes.

3. Bazurto Market

For a truly authentic experience, head to Bazurto Market, one of Cartagena’s largest markets. Here, you can find a variety of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Try the ceviche (raw fish marinated in lime juice) or sancocho de pescado (a fish soup made with various vegetables and spices). Remember to haggle for prices!

4. El Boliche de Chpe Pailas

While not a street food spot, this eatery in Getsemaní is famous for its fresh seafood dishes. Try the cazuela de mariscos (seafood stew) or the grilled fish served with patacones (fried green plantains).

5. Rafael Nuñez

This street in the historic district is known for its street food carts selling delicious treats like mazorca con queso (corn on the cob slathered with cheese) and helado en coco (ice cream inside a hollowed-out coconut). It’s the perfect place to cool down after a day of exploring Cartagena’s historic sites.