Colombia’s Caribbean coast is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, colors, and cultures. From Cartagena’s historic charm to the laid-back vibes of Palomino, the region offers an exciting mix of street food, fresh seafood, and innovative cocktails. Whether you’re after a traditional coastal meal or a trendy beachside bar, here’s your guide to the best places to eat and drink on Colombia’s Caribbean coast.
CARTAGENA: A FOODIE’S PARADISE
Best Traditional Eats
🌿 La Cevichería – A must-visit for seafood lovers, this charming eatery specializes in ceviche with Caribbean flavors. Try the shrimp and passion fruit ceviche for a tangy kick.
🥘 Restaurante Celele – Showcasing indigenous Caribbean ingredients, Celele takes Colombian cuisine to another level with dishes like slow-cooked pork with tropical fruit reductions.
🌮 El Boliche Cebichería – If you’re looking for ceviche with a gourmet twist, this spot combines Peruvian techniques with local Colombian ingredients.
Best Street Food
🍌 Arepas de Huevo from Bazurto Market – A deep-fried arepa stuffed with egg and meat, this snack is a Cartagena staple.
🍦 Coconut and Passionfruit Helado from La Paletteria – Cool off with a natural fruit popsicle, available in tropical flavors like mango and tamarind.
Best Drinks & Nightlife
🍸 Alquímico – This multi-level cocktail bar serves innovative drinks infused with Colombian flavors. Try the ‘Selva Sour’ with aguardiente and Amazonian herbs.
🎶 Café Havana – A lively salsa bar where you can dance the night away with a mojito in hand.
🌅 Mirador Gastro Bar – Rooftop cocktails with views of Cartagena’s historic skyline and the Caribbean Sea.
SANTA MARTA: SEAFOOD HEAVEN
Best Beachside Restaurants
🐟 Ouzo – A Greek-inspired spot with fresh seafood, wood-fired pizzas, and the best grilled octopus in town.
🍽️ Lulo Café Bar – This laid-back café serves up fusion plates like Caribbean-inspired tacos and refreshing smoothies.
🏝 Burukuka – A hilltop restaurant with breathtaking views over the bay, perfect for sunset drinks and seafood platters.
Best Drinks & Nightlife
🍹 La Brisa Loca Rooftop – A hostel-turned-party spot offering cheap cocktails and a fun backpacker crowd.
🍺 La Canoa – A hidden gem serving craft beer and artisanal cocktails near Parque de los Novios.
PALOMINO: BOHEMIAN BEACH BITES
🥗 Sua Restaurant – A beachfront spot serving fresh seafood, coconut rice, and vegan-friendly bowls.
🍕 Juntos Pizza Café – The best wood-fired pizza in town, served in a lush jungle setting.
🥥 Casa Cocotte – Specializing in plant-based Caribbean dishes and tropical cocktails.
🍸 Palomino Breeze Bar – A relaxed tiki-style bar perfect for sipping piña coladas under the stars.
ISLA BARÚ & PROVIDENCIA: ISLAND FLAVORS
🏝 Playa Blanca’s Fresh Fish Stalls – Order a plate of fried red snapper, coconut rice, and patacones (fried plantains) straight from the beach vendors.
🐚 El Divino Niño (Providencia) – Known for its lobster and fresh conch ceviche, this local gem is an island favorite.
🍹 Deep Blue Bar (Providencia) – Enjoy a sunset cocktail overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean.
Colombia’s Caribbean coast is a true paradise for food lovers. Whether you’re enjoying ceviche in Cartagena, sipping craft cocktails in Santa Marta, or indulging in island-fresh seafood in Providencia, the flavors of this region will stay with you long after you leave. 🌴🍹🍽️