Cartagena is best explored on foot, but also through its food. Beyond the classic tourist spots, the city has a growing culinary scene where chefs, local concepts, and creative kitchens are reinterpreting Caribbean and Colombian flavors in new ways.
If you’re looking for recommended restaurants in Cartagena to share good food, try something different, and enjoy more authentic experiences, this guide brings together a few spots worth booking during your trip.
1. Celele
If you want to experience a more creative and contemporary version of Caribbean cuisine, Celele is a must-visit in Cartagena.
Chef Jaime Rodríguez’s proposal is built around ingredients, recipes, and techniques discovered through the exploration of the Colombian Caribbean. The result is a menu that blends biodiversity, tradition, and modern cooking without losing its local identity.
The experience here is all about discovery. Expect uncommon flavors, local ingredients, and a presentation focused more on culinary exploration than traditional dining.
What to expect: contemporary Caribbean cuisine, creative tasting menus, and local ingredients.
Ideal for: food lovers and travelers looking for something beyond the usual spots.
Address: Cra. 10c #29-200, Calle del Espíritu Santo, Cartagena, Bolívar.
Photo by Celele
Read more: Brunch in Cartagena: 5 Must-Try Dishes at Carta Ajena
2. Rabo de Pez
Rabo de Pez takes local cuisine into a more creative and experimental direction while still keeping the feeling of comforting, home-style food.
Its concept revolves around cured and aged products — from meats to artisanal seafood — enhancing flavors, textures, and depth in every dish. The menu combines Colombian Caribbean ingredients, contemporary techniques, and local flavors interpreted through a modern lens.
Even though the atmosphere feels relaxed and approachable, the level of detail in the kitchen is impressive. It’s the kind of place that works best when sharing several dishes and trying unexpected combinations.
What to expect: creative cuisine, cured products, and fresh artisanal seafood.
Ideal for: travelers looking for a different dining experience without formalities.
Address: Edificio Andian, Cl. 32 #5-09 Local 3, El Centro, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar.
Photo by Rabo de Pez
3. Quebracho Parrilla
If you’re craving a great steakhouse in Cartagena, Quebracho is one of the top recommendations in the city.
Located inside the historic walled city, this restaurant brings the tradition of Argentine grilling into a warm, elegant experience designed to be enjoyed slowly.
Its proposal revolves around fire and charcoal grilling, using traditional techniques to achieve juicy cuts, deep flavors, and the signature smoky taste of Argentine cuisine. Beyond the premium steaks, the atmosphere invites you to stay longer with good wine, music, and tables made for sharing.
What to expect: authentic Argentine grill, premium steaks, and open-fire cooking.
Ideal for: meat lovers, couples, and group dinners.
Address: Calle Baloco, Cl. 33 #2-69, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar.
4. Salón Tropical
Located in the heart of Getsemaní, Salón Tropical combines seafood, grilling, and a relaxed atmosphere that perfectly matches Cartagena’s energy.
Its concept is centered around fresh products sourced directly from local fishermen, featuring a menu that blends Caribbean flavors, tropical influences, and contemporary techniques. Expect ceviches, crudos, creamy rice dishes, and plates designed for sharing.
The atmosphere completes the experience: live music, communal tables, and a vibrant energy that easily turns dinner into a long evening.
What to expect: contemporary seafood cuisine, fresh catch, and a tropical atmosphere.
Ideal for: group dinners and relaxed nights out.
Address: Cra 10c, Cl. de la Lomba #28-36, Getsemaní, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar.
Photo by Salón Tropical
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5. Carta Ajena Restaurante
Carta Ajena is one of those places in Cartagena where everything feels intentional — from the ingredients to the atmosphere.
Its concept combines fresh cuisine, balanced dishes, and a relaxed environment that works just as well for a slow brunch as for dinner with friends. The kitchen focuses on more natural and less processed ingredients, creating flavors that feel light, fresh, and easy to enjoy.
During the day, brunch is one of the main highlights. At night, the energy shifts into a perfect setting for cocktails, music, and dinner inside the lifestyle atmosphere of OSH Hotel.
What to expect: brunch, fresh dishes, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Ideal for: brunch plans, casual dinners, and travelers looking for cool spots in Cartagena.
Address: Calle 31, Cl. de la Magdalena #10-77, Getsemaní, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar.
6. De Indias Comedor y Copas
In the middle of Getsemaní, De Indias Comedor & Copas offers a contemporary Colombian dining experience that blends tradition, creativity, and local ingredients.
Its menu changes constantly depending on the season and the freshest available products, connecting flavors from the countryside and the sea with modern techniques, fermentations, and pickling processes. Every dish reinterprets familiar flavors through a more creative and contemporary perspective.
The overall experience feels close, relaxed, and strongly connected to the idea of sharing around the table.
What to expect: contemporary Colombian cuisine, local ingredients, and seasonal dishes.
Ideal for: relaxed dinners and discovering new flavors in Cartagena.
Address: Carrera 9 #30-58, Getsemaní, Cartagena, Colombia.
Eating in Cartagena is Part of the Trip
Cartagena’s food scene has become an essential part of the travel experience. From contemporary Caribbean cuisine to brunch spots, seafood restaurants, and creative local concepts, these restaurants show a more modern, local, and diverse side of the city.
At the end of the day, some of the best travel memories begin exactly like this: around a great table.
FAQs
What are the best areas to eat in Cartagena?
Getsemaní and the Historic Center are two of the best areas for dining in Cartagena, offering everything from contemporary Colombian cuisine to brunch spots and rooftop restaurants.
Which restaurants should I visit for contemporary local cuisine in Cartagena?
Celele, Rabo de Pez, and De Indias Comedor & Copas are great options for discovering modern interpretations of Colombian and Caribbean cuisine.
Where can I have brunch in Cartagena?
Carta Ajena Restaurante is one of the best brunch spots in Getsemaní, offering fresh dishes, a relaxed atmosphere, and the lifestyle experience of OSH Hotel.
Which restaurants are good for a special dinner in Cartagena?
Celele and Quebracho Parrilla are excellent choices for special dinners, whether you’re looking for a more conceptual dining experience or a premium steakhouse atmosphere.
Where can I eat fresh seafood in Cartagena?
Carta Ajena Restaurant, Salón Tropical and Rabo de Pez both work with artisanal fishermen and fresh local seafood.
