As we always say, a trip to a new place means getting to know new cultures, new people, visiting the main attractions, learning more about its history... and of course, tasting its typical dishes. In Colombia, you can eat wonderfully and at reasonable prices, and Cartagena de Indias is no exception. And to prove it to you, here we tell you about 7 restaurants where you can eat well and cheaply in Cartagena de Indias .
1. Holy Spirit
One of the best places to eat traditional recipes in Cartagena. The menu is quite extensive (there are both meat and fish dishes), the food is homemade, the portions are generous and the atmosphere is good. And the best thing is that there is a daily menu that includes 3 or 4 options that change every day and a drink, for 15,000$. The fried fish (mojarra) is recommended and I ordered the stewed oxtail and it was finger-licking good. Prices for main dishes: 15,000-25,000$.
2. The Mulatto
This is a well-known place where you can try delicious Caribbean recipes at a fair price. It is a bit more expensive than the others, but it is worth eating here. Main dishes are around $28,000-$38,000, 8-10€, Mojito $18,000, 5€, and juices are $5,000.
3. Cebiches and Seviches
Located next to the Clock Tower, this restaurant is another hit. The ceviches (there are many types) cost around $21,000, but if you go as a couple it is worth ordering the combo of 3 ceviches for $50,000 (about €14).
4. Coroncoro
This place in the Getsemaní neighborhood offers the perfect combination: cheap, authentic and 100% local atmosphere . When we went, we were the only tourists, and we loved that. The tables are shared between diners, while some chat and others watch the news on TV. They have a very extensive menu, but if you want to save a little money, order the menu of the day ($10,000), with one main ingredient (meat or fish) and which includes soup, rice and aguapanela . The portions are huge.
5. Restaurant Bar 1533
Located in the center of Cartagena, this restaurant serves traditional dishes and offers very good service, thanks to its friendly staff. Daily specials for $15,000.
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6. I want Arepa
Arepas are one of the dishes we enjoy the most in Colombia. If you find yourself in the same situation as us, you can satisfy your hunger at this nice place, where they make very, very good ones, so we definitely recommend it. The traditional arepa (with cheese) costs $6,500, the more elaborate arepas around $9-17,000. Tip: they also serve full breakfasts.
7. Crepes and waffles
If you prefer not to complicate things too much but want to get it right, there is a chain of restaurants with a varied menu, from soups to salads and other more or less healthy dishes. Of course, there is no shortage of crepes and waffles! The price is a bit high, but the quality of the food is good. We recommend going for breakfast or brunch.
Free food tour
If you are reading this article, it means that you also like to be like Tato (we are hopeless gluttons!). Well, a very interesting option to enjoy Colombian gastronomy, while learning more about its culture and its importance in everyday life, is to sign up for this gastronomic tour.
It takes place at the Éxito San Diego shopping center where you will try up to 7 different dishes from various traditional food stands. The tour is free (you know, don't forget to tip), but you have to pay for the food, of course!
→ Reserve your place here
Map with restaurants in Cartagena
On this map you will find the location of the restaurants that we recommend in Cartagena de Indias:
These are our recommendations for restaurants where you can eat well and cheaply in Cartagena de Indias .
