Top 5 Places to Eat in Cartagena

Written by Marcus Kayode, Marika Maslanka, Santiago Rodriguez
03/08/2025
Charming street in Cartagena with vibrant buildings and cathedral in view, ideal for travel inspiration.
Ariel Foletto, Pexels

Cartagena, Colombia, offers a diverse and captivating culinary landscape, where rich Caribbean, African, and Spanish influences blend to create a unique gastronomic experience. The dining scene caters to a wide array of visitors, from discerning foodies seeking innovative flavors and romantic settings to families and casual diners looking for authentic local comfort food and vibrant street eats.

1. Carmen

Cuisine: Contemporary Colombian Fusion

Stepping into Carmen, I was immediately struck by its elegant and intimate colonial setting. It felt luxurious yet welcoming, with a beautiful courtyard setting and often live, subtle music. The menu is a true celebration of local ingredients, presented with sophisticated techniques. The charcoal-grilled lobster was exquisite, perfectly tender with a subtle smokiness, and the various pre-appetizers and changing house desserts truly made me feel like an honored guest. It is a perfect choice for a special evening out.

Price: Approximately $40 - $80 USD per person

Getting There: Located in the historic center, Carmen is easily walkable from most accommodations within the walled city.

2. Alma

Cuisine: High-Class Caribbean Colombian

Alma, located within the stylish Casa San Agustín hotel, offers a refined take on Caribbean Colombian cuisine. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, often accompanied by live Cuban son music on weekends, making it ideal for a romantic meal. I particularly enjoyed the octopus carpaccio, which was beautifully presented and incredibly delicious, and the seafood casserole was generously filled with fresh, abundant seafood. The attention to detail in every dish is evident, showcasing local flavors with a contemporary twist.

Price: Approximately $35 - $70 USD per person

Getting There: Alma is situated in the historic center, making it easily accessible by foot.

3. La Cocina de Pepina

Cuisine: Traditional Colombian & Caribbean Fusion

For a taste of authentic local flavors, La Cocina de Pepina is a must-visit. Tucked away on a side street in Getsemaní, this simple and unpretentious eatery offers a genuine sense of Cartagena's culinary heritage. I found the traditional Colombian and Caribbean fusion dishes to be incredibly flavorful and comforting. Expect fresh ingredients like eggplant, tomatoes, and local tropical fruits blended with meats and fish. It is a small, popular spot, so be prepared for a potential wait as they operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

Price: Approximately 30,000 - 40,000 COP ($7 - $10 USD) per main dish

Getting There: Located in Getsemaní, it is a short walk from the historic center. Taxis are also readily available.

4. La Mulata

Cuisine: Caribbean Comfort Food

Stepping into La Mulata felt like receiving a warm embrace from Cartagena itself. The eclectic decor and lively atmosphere created a memorable experience. I relished their quintessential Caribbean comfort food, especially the succulent fish fillets served with coconut rice and fried plantains. Their daily lunch specials are excellent value, often including a starter, main course, dessert, and juice. It is a fantastic spot to enjoy vibrant local flavors in a casual setting.

Price: Approximately 30,000 COP ($7 - $8 USD) per main dish

Getting There: La Mulata is a few blocks from Plaza Fernandez de Madrid, easily reachable by walking within the Old City.

5. La Cevichería

Cuisine: Seafood (Ceviche & Paella)

La Cevichería is renowned for its fresh seafood, and I can confirm its popularity is well-deserved. While ceviche is their namesake, the seafood paella truly impressed me. Although it has a different profile than traditional Spanish paella, it stands as a delicious dish in its own right, packed with fresh seafood. This spot can get quite busy, partly due to its fame, but the fresh and zesty flavors make it a worthwhile stop for any seafood enthusiast.

Price: Approximately $15 - $30 USD per person

Getting There: La Cevichería is located within the Old Town walled city and is easily walkable from most central areas.

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