All you have to do is eat
Colombia
Cartagena
diy food tour
Ceviche from La Mulata (photo credit @diyfoodtours)
Mercado de Bazurto (Bazurto Market) (photo credit @diyfoodtours)
Mercado de Bazurto (Bazurto Market) (photo credit @diyfoodtours)
Introduction
Cartagena is a city with a rich and diverse culinary scene. The city’s location on the Caribbean coast means that it has access to fresh seafood, which is a major component of many of the city’s dishes. Cartagena also has a strong African influence, which is reflected in the use of spices and flavors in many of the city’s dishes.
Here are some of the most popular dishes to try in Cartagena:
- Arroz con coco is a rice dish cooked in coconut milk and flavored with spices such as cumin and turmeric.
- Sancocho is a hearty soup made with chicken, beef, yuca, potatoes, and plantains.
- Ceviche is a seafood dish made with raw fish, citrus juice, onions, and cilantro.
- Pescado frito is fried fish that is often served with patacones (fried plantains) and a salad.
- Arepas are cornmeal pancakes that can be filled with a variety of ingredients, such as cheese, meat, or beans.
DIY Tour details
Sample dishes from Mexican cuisine (Baja and Mayan influences), Japanese cuisine, American cuisine, Tibetan cuisine, Jamaican cuisine, Middle Eastern cuisine, French cuisine, and Chilean cuisine
Number of stops: 8
Number of tastings: 8
Tastings: Ceviche de Pescado, Pescado Frito, Cazuela de Marisco (fish and seafood soup, with shrimp, squid and mussels, flavoured with coconut oil and accompanied by rice or banana patacones), Carne a la Criolla, Pescado Sudado (Boneless fish steamed in its juices, served with creamy pumpkin rice and minced tomato and onion), Florentine Salad (Buffalo mozzarella, variety of organic lettuce, dried and fresh tomatoes, mushrooms, pesto, avocado, black olives, balsamic vinegar and olive oil), Arepa de huevo Tradicional, Shrimp cocktail
Mercado de Bazurto (Bazurto Market)
Bazurto Market is the largest and most important market in Cartagena, Colombia. It is located in the historic center of the city, and is a major center for the distribution of food, produce, and other goods. The market is open from early morning until late at night, and is a bustling hive of activity.
Bazurto Market is a great place to experience the local culture and to buy souvenirs and gifts. The market is home to a wide variety of stalls selling everything from fresh produce to clothing to souvenirs. There are also a number of restaurants and food stalls located in the market, where you can sample the local cuisine.
If you are looking for a unique and authentic experience in Cartagena, be sure to visit Bazurto Market. It is a truly fascinating place, and you are sure to find something to interest you.
Here are some tips for visiting Bazurto Market:
- Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Be prepared to bargain.
Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against pickpockets. - Enjoy the experience and soak up the atmosphere.
Address: Cl. del Quero #9 58, Centro, Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
diy food tour
Tasting Types
There are 5 different tasting types. The first is a Must Try tasting, which means the dish provides a sense of pleasure, leaves an everlasting impression, evokes something exceptional, and will be remembered. The second is a Tasting Hack, that is for example, a tasting that is combined with another tasting on the tour, that together, create a better tasting experience. A Seasonal tasting is only available during certain times of the year. A Vegetarian tasting does not contain meat (only verified vegetarian tasting are identified). A Best-In-Class tasting is an identification of a top tasting destination. A Cook At Home tasting is where you purchase in store, but cook at home.
Must try
Must try food tasting
Tasting Hack
Special manitpulated tasting
Seasonal
Seasonal tasting
Vegetarian
Vegetarian tasting
Best-in-class
Top tasting destination
Cook at Home
Tasting you purchase in store, but cook at home
Tasting Locations
Tasting menu
Ceviche de Pescado from La Mulata
photo credit @diyfoodtours
La Mulata
Caribbean restaurant
Must try: Ceviche de Pescado
How to portion: On order can provide up to 3 tastings
DIY Food Tours: Ceviche, a vibrant dish with a captivating history, is a cornerstone of Latin American cuisine. This seemingly simple dish, featuring raw seafood cured in citrus juices, offers an explosion of flavors and textures. Ceviche’s journey, however, extends beyond its deliciousness, reflecting the cultural exchange and resourcefulness that shaped Latin America.
The origins of ceviche remain shrouded in some mystery, with various cultures claiming its invention. Inca legends speak of a dish similar to ceviche prepared with a fermented corn beverage called chicha, while some credit coastal tribes in present-day Ecuador and Peru with its creation. Regardless of its exact origin, the core principle of ceviche – using citrus to “cook” seafood – was a resourceful adaptation to the lack of readily available fire for cooking at sea or on hot, coastal regions.
The heart of ceviche lies in the “curacion” (curing) process. Freshly caught seafood, typically fish, shellfish, or a combination, is marinated in acidic juices like lime, lemon, or aji limo (yellow chiles). The acidity “cooks” the seafood, altering its protein structure and imparting a bright, citrusy flavor. This process requires careful control, as over-marination can lead to a rubbery texture.
Address: Cl. del Quero #9 58, Centro, Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
Hours: Saturday 11:30 AM–10 PM
Sunday 9 AM–5 PM
Monday Closed
Tuesday 11:30 AM–10 PM
Wednesday 11:30 AM–10 PM
Thursday 11:30 AM–10 PM
Friday 11:30 AM–10 PM
Website: https://restaurantelamulata.com.co
Instagram: @restaurantelamulata
Pescado Frito from Restaurante Coroncoro
photo credit @diyfoodtours
Restaurante Coroncoro
Caribbean restaurant
Must try: Pescado Frito (Fried Fish)
DIY Food Tours: This restaurant specializes in seafood and dishes from the Colombian Caribbean region, reflecting the significance of Cartagena’s coastal location. It is a casual or semi-casual eatery catering to mostly locals and very few tourists. Imagine an open and inviting atmosphere, with a touch of Caribbean flair in its decor. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including different preparations (fried, grilled, stewed) of fish, and shellfish and other local delicacies.
How to portion: One order can provide up to 4 tastings
Address: Cra. 10 #31-22, Getsemaní, Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
Hours: Monday 7:30 a.m.–9 p.m.
Tuesday 7:3 a.m.–9 p.m.
Wednesday 7:30 a.m.–9 p.m.
Thursday 7:30 a.m.–9 p.m.
Friday 7:30 a.m.–9 p.m.
Saturday 7:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m.
Sunday 7:30 a.m.–9 p.m.
Website: NA
Instagram: @restaurantecoroncoro
Cazuela de Marisco from Restaurante Kazabe
photo credit @diyfoodtours
Restaurante Kazabe
Restaurant
Must try: Cazuela de Marisco (fish and seafood soup, with shrimp, squid and mussels, flavoured with coconut oil and accompanied by rice or banana patacones)
DIY Food Tours: Restaurante Kazabe in Cartagena promises a delightful culinary adventure, transporting you to the heart of Colombian flavors with a modern twist.
The restaurant takes its name, Kazabe (cassava root), and its culinary inspiration from the Bolívar department, where Cartagena is located. The menu highlights the region’s unique ingredients and traditional dishes. Kazabe prioritizes fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local mountains, rivers, and the Caribbean Sea. This dedication to local produce ensures vibrant flavors and supports sustainable practices.
While Kazabe honors traditional recipes, they reinterpret them with a modern touch. Expect innovative presentations and plating alongside familiar Colombian flavors. The menu might incorporate subtle influences from the Greater Caribbean region, adding another layer of complexity and intrigue to the dining experience.
How to portion: One order can provide up to 5 tastings
Address: Cra. 2 #6 -195, Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
Hours: Monday 12–9 PM
Tuesday 12–9 PM
Wednesday 12–9 PM
Thursday 12–9 PM
Friday 12–9 PM
Saturday 12–9 PM
Sunday Closed
Website: https://www.restaurantekazabe.com/
Instagram: @restaurantekazabe
Carne a la Criolla from Restaurante Robert
photo credit @diyfoodtours
Restaurante Robert
Restaurant
Must try: Carne a la Criolla
DIY Food Tours: Bistec (carne) a la Criolla features thinly sliced steak, typically flank steak or skirt steak, marinated in a flavourful blend of spices and aromatics.
The marinade usually includes ingredients like onions, garlic, cumin, oregano, achiote (annatto seeds for a reddish hue), and possibly some citrus juices or vinegar. This infuses the meat with savory and slightly tangy flavors.
After being cooked, the steak is bathed in a delicious sauce that forms the heart of Bistec a la Criolla. This sauce is typically made with the leftover marinade, deglazed with a bit of broth or wine, and simmered to concentrate the flavors.
Flavor Variations: The sauce can vary slightly depending on the recipe or restaurant. Some versions might incorporate chopped tomatoes, peppers, or even a touch of Worcestershire sauce for added depth.
Bistec a la Criolla is traditionally served with a trio of Colombian staples: white rice, beans (usually black beans or red beans), and fried plantains. Fried plantains, known as patacones, add a delightful textural contrast – crispy on the outside and soft on the inside – and a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors of the dish.
How to portion: An order can provide 4 tastings
Address: Cl. 36 #484 4- a, El Centro, Cartagena de Indias, Cartagena, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
Hours: Monday 12–9 PM
Tuesday 12–9 PM
Wednesday 12–9 PM
Thursday 12–9 PM
Friday 12–9 PM
Saturday 12–9 PM
Sunday 12–9 PM
Website: NA
Instagram: NA
Pescado Sudado/ Steamed Fish from Sierpe Caribe Fusión
photo credit @diyfoodtours
Sierpe Caribe Fusión
Caribbean restaurant
Must try: Pescado Sudado/ Steamed Fish (Boneless fish steamed in its juices, served with creamy pumpkin rice and minced tomato and onion)
DIY Food Tours: Sierpe Caribe Fusión is a restaurant in Cartagena, Colombia, that offers a unique fusion of Caribbean and Colombian cuisine. The restaurant is located in the heart of the city’s historic center, in a beautifully restored colonial building.
The menu at Sierpe Caribe Fusión features a wide variety of dishes, all of which are prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Some of the most popular dishes include the ceviche, the grilled fish, and the ropa vieja. The restaurant also has a wide selection of cocktails and wines, which are perfect for pairing with the food.
The atmosphere at Sierpe Caribe Fusión is elegant and inviting. The dining room is decorated in a traditional Colombian style, with white walls, dark wood furniture, and colorful artwork. The restaurant also has a beautiful outdoor patio, which is perfect for dining al fresco.
How to portion: One omelette can provide 2 to 5 tastings
Address: Cl. de la Sierpe # 29 -09, Getsemaní, Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
Hours: Monday 12:30–3 PM, 6–10 PM
Tuesday 12:30–3 PM, 6–10 PM
Wednesday 12:30–3 PM, 6–10 PM
Thursday 12:30–3 PM, 6–10 PM
Friday 12:30–11 PM
Saturday 12:30–11 PM
Sunday 12:30–11 PM
Website: https://sierpe-caribe-fussion.cluvi.co/
Instagram: @sierpecaribe
Florentine Salad from Crepes and Waffles
photo credit @diyfoodtours
Crepes & Waffles
Restaurant
Must try: Florentine Salad (Buffalo mozzarella, variety of organic lettuce, dried and fresh tomatoes, mushrooms, pesto, avocado, black olives, balsamic vinegar and olive oil)
DIY Food Tours: While crêpes and waffles are their specialty, the menu at Crêpes & Waffles offers a surprising variety of options. You can find savoury crêpes and waffles filled with ingredients like chicken, beef, vegetables, and cheese.
Of course, crêpes and waffles are the stars of the show. Choose from a wide variety of sweet fillings like chocolate, fruit syrups, whipped cream, and even ice cream. You can also customize your creation with additional toppings.
Pair your crêpes or waffles with a refreshing beverage like coffee, tea, fresh juices, or Colombian hot chocolate. They might even offer local specialities like chicha (a fermented drink made from corn).
How to portion: One order can provide up to 4 tastings
Address: Pl. de San Pedro Claver #4 #31-24, El Centro, Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
Hours: Monday 12–10 PM
Tuesday 12–10 PM
Wednesday 12–10 PM
Thursday 12–10 PM
Friday 12–11 PM
Saturday 12–11 PM
Sunday 8:30 AM–10 PM
Website: https://crepesywaffles.com/
Instagram: @crepesywaffles
Arepa de huevo Tradicional (con carne) from Restaurante Donde Magola
photo credit @diyfoodtours
Restaurante Donde Magola
Caribbean restaurant
Must try: Arepa de huevo Tradicional (con carne)
DIY Food Tours: There isn’t a specific type of arepa unique to Cartagena, Colombia. However, arepas are a staple food throughout Colombia, and Cartagena offers its own take on them, influenced by the region’s ingredients and flavors. Here’s what you can expect:
Like arepas throughout Colombia, the base for Cartagena’s arepas is typically made from ground white or yellow cornmeal (masa). The masa is mixed with water and a touch of salt, then formed into flat, round patties.
Cartagena’s arepas might be cooked on a griddle (asado), fried (frito), or even baked (horneado). Griddling or baking results in a drier texture, while frying creates a softer and slightly oily arepa.
Due to Cartagena’s coastal location, you might find arepas filled with shredded fish, cooked shrimp, or even lobster salad. Queso costeño, a white cheese from Colombia’s Atlantic coast, is a popular filling for arepas in Cartagena. It offers a salty and slightly tangy flavor that complements the corn perfectly.
Arepas can also be enjoyed as a sweet snack. Look for versions filled with guava paste, caramel, or Colombian bocadillo (a thick guava jelly paste).
How to portion: Eight pieces can provide 8 tastings
Address: San Diego Cll Portobello #10-94 Centro, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
Hours: Monday 8 AM–10 PM
Tuesday 8 AM–10 PM
Wednesday 8 AM–10 PM
Thursday 8 AM–10 PM
Friday 8 AM–10 PM
Saturday 8 AM–10 PM
Sunday Closed
Website: NA
Instagram: @dondemagolactg
Shrimp cocktail from Coctelería y Cevichería erika
photo credit @diyfoodtours
Coctelería y Cevichería erika
Peruvian restaurant
Must try: Shrimp cocktail
DIY Food Tours: Ceviche in Cartagena is a vibrant and flavourful celebration of the city’s coastal bounty. Unlike the classic Peruvian ceviche with raw fish marinated in citrus, Cartagena’s version takes a delightful twist, featuring primarily cooked seafood bathed in a tangy and creamy sauce.
How to portion: A small order can provide up to 4 tastings
Address: Cl. 32 #8-22, La Matuna, Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
Hours: Thursday 8 AM–12 AM
Friday 8 AM–12 AM
Saturday 8 AM–12 AM
Sunday 8 AM–12 AM
Monday 8 AM–12 AM
Tuesday 8 AM–12 AM
Wednesday 8 AM–12 AM
Website: NA
Instagram: @cocteleriaerika
exotic fruits to try from a stand
photo credit @cheesemagictoronto
Colombia, a country blessed with diverse climates and vibrant ecosystems, boasts a treasure trove of fruits. While bananas and pineapples might be the first to come to mind, Colombia offers a delightful adventure for the adventurous palate with its collection of exotic fruits. These unique gems, often unseen outside the country’s borders, tantalize taste buds with their unexpected flavors and textures.
A Burst of Sunshine: Uchuva and Pitaya
The uchuva, also known as the cape gooseberry, is a delightful little fruit that packs a punch. Resembling a golden marble encased in a papery lantern, it offers a burst of sunshine in every bite. Its sweet and tangy flavor, with a hint of tropical acidity, makes it a refreshing snack enjoyed fresh or preserved in jams.
Another explosion of color comes with the pitaya, or dragonfruit. This vibrant pink fruit, often adorned with green scales, boasts a surprisingly mild sweetness. Its white flesh, speckled with tiny black seeds, is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in vitamins and antioxidants. The pitaya’s versatility allows it to be enjoyed fresh, juiced, or even incorporated into salads for a touch of the exotic.
Tangy Delights: Lulo and Tamarillo
For those who prefer a citrusy kick, Colombia offers the lulo, also known as naranjilla. This vibrant orange fruit with a papery skin hides a juicy, tangy flesh with a hint of lime. The lulo’s refreshing flavor makes it a popular choice for juices and jams, adding a unique twist to everyday beverages and spreads.
The tamarillo, also known as the tree tomato, presents a playful combination of appearance and taste. This elongated orange fruit resembles a tomato but offers a sweet and tart flavor profile. Tamarillos can be enjoyed fresh, their tanginess a delightful contrast to their sweetness, or cooked into sauces and chutneys, adding a complex layer of flavor.
Beyond the Familiar: Borojó, Guanábana, and Cherimoya
Colombia ventures even further into the realm of the exotic with fruits like the borojó. This unusual fruit, with its reddish-brown skin and creamy yellow flesh, boasts a unique combination of textures. The borojó’s soft, almost custard-like flesh offers a mildly acidic flavor with a hint of sweetness. While its taste may be an acquired one, the borojó is prized for its supposed aphrodisiac properties.
The guanábana, also known as the soursop, presents a striking appearance with its green, spiky exterior. Inside lies a treasure trove of soft, white flesh with a sweet and tangy flavor, punctuated by contrasting black seeds. Guanábana is most often enjoyed in juices and smoothies, its complex flavor adding depth and intrigue to these refreshing drinks.
Finally, the cherimoya, or custard apple, offers a luxurious eating experience. This heart-shaped fruit, with its bumpy green skin, reveals a creamy white flesh reminiscent of custard. The cherimoya’s flavor is a symphony of sweetness, with hints of banana, pineapple, and even some citrus notes. This unique fruit is best enjoyed fresh, allowing its complex flavors to shine through.
photo credit @hookedinc
Star apple
Star apple is delicious and should be sampled in Cartagena. This unique fruit with translucent star-shaped flesh is a local favourite.
Here’s what you can expect with star apple in Cartagena:
Availability: Star apple season in Colombia typically runs from September to December, so you’ll have the best chance of finding them in Cartagena during those months.
Varieties: There are several varieties of star apple, but the most common one found in Cartagena is the caimito morado, with purple skin and white flesh. You might also find the yellow star apple (caimito amarillo) with yellow skin and yellow flesh.
Where to Find It: Look for star apple at local farmers markets, fruit stands, and speciality grocery stores in Cartagena. They may also be available at some restaurants that feature local cuisine.
Here are some tips for buying and enjoying star apple:
Choosing a Ripe Star Apple: A ripe star apple will have skin that yields slightly to gentle pressure. The fruit should feel heavy for its size. Avoid any star apples with wrinkled skin or blemishes.
Cutting and Eating Star Apple: Cut the star apple in half horizontally. The flesh is segmented, with a large, black seed in the center of each segment. Scoop out the flesh with a spoon and discard the seeds.
Enjoying Star Apple: Star apple can be enjoyed fresh, juiced, or in salads. The flesh has a jelly-like texture and a mild, sweet flavour with some floral notes.
Be aware that some people may experience a latex allergy when consuming star apple. If you have any latex allergies, it’s best to avoid this fruit.
photo credit @sanagansmeatlocker
Zapote (Sapota)
Zapote (also known as Sapote) can be enjoyed in Cartagena, but it depends on a few factors:
Zapote Varieties: There are several varieties of Zapote, each with slightly different growing conditions and availability. The most common type you might encounter in Colombia is the Sapote Amarillo (Yellow Sapote), which is native to the Americas.
Seasonality: Sapote Amarillo typically ripens between early spring and summer (roughly March to June) depending on the specific region. Since Cartagena has a more tropical climate year-round, the seasonality might be less pronounced.
Here’s what to consider when looking for Zapote in Cartagena:
Local Markets: Your best bet is to check local farmers markets or fruterías (fruit stands) in Cartagena. Talk to the vendors to see if they have Sapote Amarillo or Zapote in general.
Specialty Stores: Some specialty grocery stores that focus on local produce might carry Zapote, especially if they cater to a clientele interested in exotic fruits.
Alternatives if you can’t find Zapote:
Canistel: If you can’t find Zapote, ask about Canistel (Eggfruit). It has a similar appearance and texture to Sapote Amarillo, with a bright yellow flesh and a sweet, eggy flavor.
Mamey Sapote: Another option is Mamey Sapote, a larger fruit with a reddish-brown skin and a sweet, orange-colored flesh. The flavor profile is richer and more complex than Sapote Amarillo. Mamey Sapote might be easier to find than Sapote Amarillo in Colombia.
Tips for Enjoying Zapote:
Ripeness: Look for a Sapote that is slightly soft to the touch, giving in gently to pressure. Avoid any fruit with blemishes or wrinkles.
Cutting and Eating: Cut the Sapote in half and scoop out the flesh with a spoon. The black seed in the center can be discarded.
Flavour: Sapote Amarillo has a sweet and slightly fibrous flesh, with a flavor profile that some compare to a combination of mango and apricot.
photo credit @perolasupermarket
Pitaya (Dragon fruit)
Pitaya, also known as Dragon fruit is vibrantly coloured fruit with white flesh is not only delicious but also rich in nutrients.
Here’s what you can expect with Pitaya in Cartagena:
Availability: Pitaya is generally available year-round in Colombia, although peak season may vary depending on the specific region.
Varieties: You might find yellow pitaya alongside the more common red variety in Cartagena. Both have a similar flavor profile, with the yellow pitaya being slightly sweeter.
Where to Find It: Look for Pitaya at local farmers markets, fruit stands, and grocery stores in Cartagena.
Here are some tips for buying and enjoying Pitaya: Choosing a Ripe Pitaya: A ripe pitaya will have slightly soft skin that yields a bit to gentle pressure. The color should be vibrant and uniform, with no green areas.
Cutting and Eating Pitaya: Cut the pitaya in half from stem to end. The flesh can be scooped out with a spoon or sliced. The tiny black seeds are edible and safe to consume.
Enjoying Pitaya: Pitaya can be enjoyed fresh, juiced, or even blended into smoothies. The mild sweetness of the fruit pairs well with a variety of flavours.
COMMENTS/QUESTIONS/RECOMMENDATIONS/UPDATES
Email: Matt@diyfoodtours.com
