Where to Eat Local Colombian Food in Medellín
Medellín is a city full of flavors, and if you’re visiting, trying local Colombian food is a must. From hearty bandeja paisa to fresh arepas and delicious empanadas, Medellín offers a variety of traditional dishes that showcase its rich culinary culture. If you're wondering where to eat authentic Colombian food in Medellín, we've got you covered.
1. Mondongos
A well-known spot among locals and tourists alike, Mondongos is famous for its traditional bandeja paisa—a hearty plate featuring beans, rice, chicharrón (fried pork belly), arepa, avocado, and more. They also serve the famous mondongo soup, a rich tripe soup loved by locals. With generous portions and an authentic Colombian atmosphere, this is a must-visit.
📍 Locations: El Poblado, Laureles
2. Hacienda
For a true antioqueño dining experience, Hacienda is a great choice. With multiple locations in Medellín, this restaurant offers classic Colombian dishes, including ajiaco (a traditional chicken and potato soup), sancocho, and lechona (stuffed roasted pork). The rustic decor and warm service make it feel like a traditional Colombian home.
📍 Locations: El Poblado, Centro, and more
3. El Rancherito
A staple for Colombian comfort food, El Rancherito is perfect for those wanting to try a variety of local dishes. They serve everything from patacones con hogao (fried plantains with tomato sauce) to chicharrón and tamales antioqueños. This spot is great for families and large groups looking for a true taste of the region.
📍 Location: Las Palmas and other locations around Medellín
4. Hato Viejo
A traditional restaurant serving Colombian food for over 30 years, Hato Viejo is known for its high-quality ingredients and authentic recipes. Try their bandeja paisa, ajiaco, or posta negra (Colombian-style slow-cooked beef). Their extensive menu and excellent service make it a top choice for those craving local flavors.
📍 Locations: El Poblado, Centro, and more
5. La Gloria de Gloria
If you’re a fan of chicharrón, La Gloria de Gloria is the place to be. This small yet famous restaurant in Envigado serves some of the best chicharrón in Medellín, known for its crispy outside and juicy inside. Be sure to arrive early, as it’s a popular spot and can get busy quickly!
📍 Location: Envigado
6. Mercado del Río
For those who want to try a mix of Colombian flavors in one place, Mercado del Río is an excellent choice. This modern food market has various stalls offering traditional Colombian dishes, from arepas de chócolo to empanadas and lechona. It's a great spot for food lovers who want to explore different tastes in one setting.
📍 Location: Ciudad del Río
7. Join a Local Colombian Food Tour in Medellín
If you want to taste the best local food while learning about Medellín’s food culture, consider joining our Medellín Food Tour. Led by a local guide, you'll visit hidden gems in the Laureles neighborhood, where you can try authentic dishes that locals love. From bandeja paisa to unique street food, this experience will take you on a delicious journey through Colombian cuisine.
📍 Meeting Point: Laureles
Final Thoughts
Medellín is a paradise for food lovers, offering a variety of authentic Colombian dishes that highlight its culture and traditions. Whether you visit a traditional restaurant or explore street food markets, there’s no shortage of delicious local flavors to try. Make sure to add some of these spots to your itinerary and experience the best of Colombian cuisine!
