Top 5 Places to Eat in Villa de Leyva

Written by Marcus Kayode, Marika Maslanka, Santiago Rodriguez
03/08/2025
Explore the historic charm of Villa de Leyva's main plaza, featuring colonial architecture and a central stone fountain.
Juan Segmentado 🇨🇴, Pexels

Villa de Leyva offers a diverse culinary experience, blending traditional Colombian flavors with international influences, catering to families, couples, and general tourists.

1. La Tienda de Teresa

Cuisine: Colombian, Breakfast & Lunch

This popular spot is known for its authentic Colombian breakfast and lunch offerings, including arepas with various fillings and hearty 'plato del dia' options. Expect a bustling, local atmosphere with home-cooked style dishes that are often praised for their generous portions and great value. It is advisable to visit before 2 PM as they tend to sell out.

Price: COP 22,000 - COP 23,000 (around $5.50 - $6 USD) for meal of the day; desserts from COP 1,000 (around $0.25 USD).

Getting There: Located within walking distance from the Plaza Mayor, making it easily accessible on foot.

2. Mercado Municipal

Cuisine: Eclectic, Wood-fired

Housed in a colonial building from 1740, Mercado Municipal offers a modern, hip atmosphere with dishes often cooked in a wood-burning oven. The menu features delicious food made with fresh local ingredients, including pizza, chicharrón, and fish and chips. The outdoor patio provides a pleasant dining experience.

Price: Mid-range. Specific prices for dishes were not consistently available, but generally considered good value for the quality.

Getting There: Situated just a block off Plaza Mayor, it is easily reachable by walking.

3. La María Bistro

Cuisine: Colombian & International

La María Bistro, with two locations, provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere for diners. It is well-regarded for its blend of Colombian and international cuisine, using high-quality, fresh ingredients. Signature dishes include rich lasagna and lamb 'Osobuco al Horno' pasta. A selection of beers, wines, and cocktails are also available.

Price: Mid-range. Specific prices for main courses were not consistently available, but it is considered a good spot for a satisfying dining experience.

Getting There: Both locations are within walking distance of the main square.

4. Tierra de Carnes

Cuisine: Grilled Meats, Steakhouse

A haven for meat lovers, Tierra de Carnes is renowned for its slow-cooked pork ribs, grilled meats, and hamburgers. The restaurant prides itself on sourcing high-quality local ingredients and premium cuts, with attentive service and delicious accompanying sides like perfectly cooked rice and salads. Recommended dishes include the Filet Mignon, Doble Nuestra Hamburger, and Costillas de Cerdo.

Price: Higher-end for Villa de Leyva. Specific prices for main courses were not consistently available, but it is considered a destination for quality meats.

Getting There: Located just off the main plaza, it is easily accessible on foot.

5. Restaurante Casa San Pedro

Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean, Vegetarian

Casa San Pedro offers a delightful and unique gastronomic experience in a beautiful, clean, and modern setting within a historic environment. A standout dish is the Fettuccine prepared and served directly from a large aged Italian cheese wheel, infusing it with rich aroma and flavor. The menu also includes diverse Italian, Mediterranean, and vegetarian options.

Price: Higher-end. Specific prices for main courses were not consistently available, but the experience and quality are noted.

Getting There: Located within walking distance from the main square.

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