15+ Best Colombian Restaurants Medellín - Eat Like A Local
Are you looking for the best Colombian restaurants in Medellin?
You’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ve rounded up what we think are the best places to enjoy authentic Colombian food in the city.
It’s important to note that we’re focusing exclusively on local Colombian cuisine, as Medellin also has a wide variety of excellent international restaurants.
For those looking for something like that, be sure to check out our article on the best restaurants in Medellin.
But if you’re ready to dive into the flavors of Colombian cuisine in this vibrant city, read on.
Now, let’s get to our top picks!
The best Colombian restaurants in Medellín are:
1. Mamasita Medallo
Mamasita Medallo is a modern Colombian restaurant in Medellin that not only boasts an impressive ambiance but also offers a variety of tasty Colombian dishes.
It’s the perfect place to enjoy authentic Colombian food and drinks with friends in a stylish setting that won’t break the bank.
While the menu isn’t extensive, it offers a nice mix of Colombian classics with a contemporary twist.
One of our favorite dishes is the Picada de Morcilla (20,000 COP), which includes perfectly grilled slices of morcilla, roasted potatoes, and a side of heavenly guacamole.
Grilling the morcilla on all sides gives it an extra layer of flavor.
Another standout dish is the Tazón Paisa (29,000 COP), a hearty dish loaded with ground beef, chicharrón, and chorizo, accompanied by beans, arepas, baked plantains, and crispy fried onions.
The variety of textures, combined with the balance of salty and sweet flavors, makes this dish a true delight.
Other recommended options are the Baby Beef Bowl (29,000 COP), the Garbanzo Consuelito (25,000 COP), and the Morrilla a la Brasa (41,000 COP).
The truth is that everything we tried was amazing!
2. Maru Rico
Maru Rico is a beloved Colombian restaurant in Medellin, known for doing a few things so well that it’s always packed with hungry locals, especially at lunchtime.
First and foremost, Maru Rico excels at serving hearty Colombian comfort food, with an emphasis on meaty dishes.
One of the standout dishes is the Tipico Frijoles (35,000 COP), a generous plate loaded with chicharrón (pork belly), chorizo, morcilla (blood sausage), fried egg, rice, and beans.
The Tipico Frijoles is actually a Bandeja Paisa, which is the most famous dish of the Antioquia region of which Medellín is part.
If you want to try this heavy but tasty platter, have a look at our article about the best Bandeja Paisa in Medellín for more inspiration and comparison.
These dishes are served to eager diners with impressive speed.
That brings us to the second thing they do exceptionally well: service.
The hard-working staff moves quickly between tables, while the kitchen produces the food at an impressive pace. It’s pretty amazing how quickly your food arrives.
Other popular options include their soups and picadas (which we’ll get to later in this article).
While Maru Rico isn’t a fancy place, it is the perfect place to enjoy traditional Colombian home cooking.
For me personally, this is what it means to eat like a local.
These are the kind of restaurants that always get me excited.
Nothing fancy, but hard-working people serving up amazing local food.
Just make sure you come hungry, the portions here are huge!
3. Hacienda
If you’re looking for traditional Colombian food in Medellin, Hacienda is one of your best options.
This popular restaurant has six branches across the city and specializes in classic Colombian dishes like the Bandeja Paisa, a variety of hearty soups like Ajiaco, Mondongo, and Sancocho, and chicharrón-inspired dishes.
Before we dive into food recommendations, it’s worth noting that the service at Hacienda is exceptional.
Food arrives quickly and the staff, dressed in traditional Colombian attire, pays great attention to detail, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
While the menu at Hacienda isn’t extensive, it’s reasonably priced and offers plenty of traditional favorites—everything you need for a satisfying meal.
Unlike the hip, modern vibe of Mamasita Medallo, Hacienda is all about embracing tradition, from its authentic dishes to its charming traditional interior.
During our visits, we enjoyed their signature soups and highly recommend the Sancocho (32,900 COP) and the Lentejas (22,900 COP).
Sancocho is a rich and flavorful Colombian soup made with potatoes, beef, pork, and herbs, while the Lentejas, a lentil-based soup, has a comforting and hearty flavor reminiscent of Dutch pea soup.
Both are delicious and served with rice and avocado, making them complete meals.
If you’re dining with a group or as a couple, we recommend trying one of their chicharrón dishes or a selection of appetizers to complement the soups.
For a savory twist, the Trio Antioqueño (18,900 COP) is a must-try: a plate full of chicharrón, chorizo, morcilla, and arepas, accompanied by a variety of dipping sauces.
A standout appetizer is the Crispetas de Chicharrón (17,900 COP), where crispy fried pork belly is coated in a light batter and deep fried to make it as crispy as possible.
It is served with roasted potatoes and drizzled with a creamy, flavorful sauce.
Overall, Hacienda is one of the best places in Medellin to enjoy authentic Colombian cuisine.
If you are craving traditional, healthy, and tasty Colombian food, this is a place you must visit.
4. Restaurante El Mejor Sabor del Caribe
Antioquian food is a meat-centered cuisine and is often paired with beans.
Especially when you want to eat like a local, you often only can choose between heavy food.
Here is my advice, choose a coastal and Caribbean restaurant once in a while.
Featured in our guide to the best coastal food in Colombia, Restaurante El Mejor Sabor del Caribe is a hidden gem in Laureles, offering authentic Caribbean flavors in the heart of Medellín.
While its modest exterior might not stand out, the steady stream of locals proves that this spot is all about great food at affordable prices.
Here, you’ll find classics like coconut rice, fried fish, and patacones, making it one of the few places in the neighborhood serving true coastal cuisine.
Since Medellín is landlocked, fresh seafood can be hard to come by, but this restaurant sources its ingredients straight from Colombia’s northern coast.
One must-try dish is the Pescado Frito (50,000 COP)—a perfectly fried whole fish, served with crispy patacones, coconut rice, and a refreshing tomato, onion, and mango salsa.
For an authentic taste of the Caribbean in Medellín, El Mejor Sabor del Caribe is a fantastic choice—delicious, budget-friendly, and true to its roots.text
5. Sabor Llanero
Meat lovers, take note! If you’re looking for a hearty and affordable meal, head to the food courts in shopping centers like Unicentro, Santafé, and Arkadia, where you’ll find Sabor Llanero—a must-visit spot for anyone who enjoys perfectly grilled meats.
At Sabor Llanero, the meat is slow-cooked over a smoky fire pit, infusing it with an irresistible, rich flavor.
Each plate comes with a satisfying combination of potatoes, banana, arepa, and two flavorful sauces, making for a well-rounded and delicious meal.
You can choose from smoked pork, chimichurri beef, or ribs, each offering a tender and juicy bite.
There are also mix platters, for those who cannot choose.
For pricing, expect to pay around 30,000 COP for a single-person platter and 40,000 COP for a two-person platter, making it a great value for the generous portions.
One of the best things about Sabor Llanero is that you don’t have to wait long—so when the craving for smoky, well-seasoned meat hits, this is the perfect place to satisfy it.
With its bold flavors, quick service, and great prices, Sabor Llanero is an ideal spot for a satisfying meal on the go.
Whether you’re shopping or just in the mood for a meat feast, this place delivers every time.
6. La Gloria de Gloria
La Gloria De Gloria is a must-visit spot in Medellin for those craving generous portions of traditional Colombian food, particularly known for serving some of the largest chicharrones in the city.
This lively restaurant attracts many locals and families, making it a popular dining destination.
Located in Envigado, La Gloria De Gloria often sees long lines of eager customers waiting for a table.
The atmosphere is vibrant and lively, embodying the essence of Colombian food, where sharing food with family and friends is a cherished tradition.
Due to its popularity, be prepared to wait in line, especially during peak times.
Many diners visit the place with large families or groups, so if you come with just two people, you may have a better chance of getting one of the limited tables for two.
Menu highlights include the following:
Complete Lunch (48,000 COP): This dish stands out and includes a substantial portion of chicharrón along with a smaller portion of morcilla.
It’s great for sharing and allows you to try the restaurant’s specialties.
- Morcilla (25,000 COP): A delicious morcilla that pairs perfectly with its other offerings.
- Sancocho (42,000 COP): A hearty Colombian soup packed with strong flavors, making it a comforting option.
While the regular portions are quite large, La Gloria De Gloria offers some dishes in smaller portions, which is helpful if you’re dining with fewer people or want to try a variety of dishes without overindulging.
Overall, if you’re in Medellín and want to experience authentic Colombian food in hearty portions, La Gloria De Gloria should be on your list!
7. Aijacos y Mondongos
When you walk into a restaurant and see its walls covered in thank-you notes from famous Colombians, framed photos, and awards, it’s a clear sign that you’re about to experience something special.
This particular restaurant specializes in two classic Colombian dishes: Ajiaco and Mondongo, though they also serve a much-loved third dish, Cazuela de Frijoles.
The limited but perfected menu is what makes this place a true gem in Medellín’s culinary scene.
Restaurants like this, small and unassuming, often become favorites due to their consistency and use of secret family recipes passed down through generations.
Here, the Ajiaco and Mondongo are the stars of the show, and both are available in two sizes: for 22,500 COP or 26,700 COP.
Mondongo, a traditional Medellín soup, boasts a savory and distinctive flavor, but is prepared with beef tripe, which may not be to everyone’s taste, especially for foreign visitors.
However, there is an even more accessible and delicious alternative: Ajiaco.
This soup, originally from Bogotá, features shredded chicken and potatoes and is more likely to appeal to Western palates.
To enjoy ajiaco properly, don’t forget to add the cream and capers that come on the side.
The richness and depth of flavor will surprise you from the first sip.
If you’re looking for an authentic Colombian experience, this little restaurant is a must-visit.
8. Mondongo’s
Perhaps the most famous Colombian restaurant in Medellin is Mondongo’s, a place that truly lives up to its reputation.
With a loyal following that includes international celebrities like Guns N’ Roses and numerous Colombian stars, it’s clear that this restaurant is doing something right.
Specializing in a select number of dishes, Mondongo’s is best known for its Mondongo soup.
The restaurant has two branches in Medellin, one in Laureles and one in El Poblado, as well as a branch in Miami.
Despite its fame, Mondongo’s is not a fancy place.
Instead, it’s a no-frills Colombian restaurant that serves amazing traditional dishes.
Big shout out to the highly knowledgeable staff, who manage to keep things running smoothly even when the place is packed, so you won’t wait long for a table or your food, no matter how crowded it is.
As the name suggests, Mondongo’s is most famous for its Mondongo Soup (36,000 COP), a traditional dish from Antioquia, the region surrounding Medellín.
This hearty soup is made with Colombian spices and a somewhat unexpected ingredient for many Western visitors: beef tripe.
While this may sound unusual, rest assured that Mondongo’s version is expertly prepared and delicious.
That said, our personal favorite is the Ajiaco (29,500 COP), a comforting soup filled with shredded chicken and potatoes.
It’s a full meal in itself, and you can add cream, capers, and cilantro for extra flavor and richness.
Another standout dish, and a must-try at Mondongo’s, is the Típico Antioqueño (39,500 COP), their take on the Bandeja Paisa, the classic Medellín dish that offers a taste of local tradition.
Tip: The soup portions are large and very filling, but you can opt for a junior-sized bowl if you want to try more dishes. Perfect for those with a big appetite looking to try a variety of flavors!
9. La Matriarca
La Matriarca is famous for its chicharrón, but the menu offers a wide variety of dishes that represent both the traditional paisa cuisine of the Antioquia region and the flavors of coastal Colombia.
While there is no shortage of delicious options, a few standout dishes consistently draw the crowd.
One of their signature dishes is the chicharrón paella (48,000 COP), which has a subtle spicy kick and features generous portions of crispy yet succulent pork belly.
Mixed with chunks of smoked chicken, they add a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the dish.
Another customer favorite is the chorizo ceviche (25,900 COP), a unique take on ceviche with a spicy acidity and a mild infusion of herbs in the chorizo that enhances its flavor.
On weekends, the Poblado location opens at 8:00 a.m. and offers a wide range of authentic Colombian breakfast options in Medellín.
We highly recommend their signature dish, the Calentado Matriarca (24,000 COP), a hearty dish that includes sausages, calentado (sautéed rice with beans), their famous chicharrón, and an arepa topped with cheese.
La Matriarca is a very popular spot, known not only for its traditional Colombian food but also for its lively atmosphere.
Especially in the evenings and on weekends, the restaurant fills up with diners enjoying live music, making it a fantastic place to both eat and be entertained.
10. Mi Arepa
When it comes to Colombian cuisine, arepas are a staple that can’t be overlooked.
Every region of Colombia has its own version, and they’re served alongside almost every traditional dish.
ome restaurants take this cornmeal “bun” to the next level, turning it into something like a stuffed pita, filled with all sorts of delicious ingredients.
Mi Arepa is one such place, and they really do it justice.
This restaurant is incredibly popular in Medellin, and if you’re craving a fast-food-style arepa, this is the place to go.
Favorites include the Arepa Ranchera, packed with various meats, including chicharrón and chorizo, and the Arepa de la Casa, a hearty creation filled with quintessential Colombian ingredients, including beans, avocado, chicharrón, and chorizo.
To top it off, the arepas are drizzled with a homemade sauce that adds the perfect finishing touch.
While there are also other dishes like patacones and quesadillas, the star of the show here is undoubtedly the arepa.
You can also find Mi Arepa in our article on the best arepas in Medellín, along with other top places to try this Colombian classic.
11. Piketeadoro
Piketeadoro is a popular spot in Medellin, especially for those looking to enjoy a traditional Picada.
Picada is a can’t-miss Colombian dish that offers a generous spread of grilled meats, sausages, potatoes, corn, and other ingredients, perfect for sharing.
Although it has Argentine origins, Picada has become deeply rooted in Colombian culture and can be found all over the country.
At Piketeadoro, you’ll find a family-friendly atmosphere with a large outdoor area where kids can play soccer, ride horses, and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon while the rest of the family enjoys Picada and ice-cold beers.
Picada dishes at Piketeadoro start at 64,900 COP for two people (Pikete Para 2) and go up to larger portions for four people (Pikete Para 4 at 114,900 COP).
For those looking for a lighter or different option, they even offer vegetarian versions of Picada, making it a great option for diverse groups of diners.
It’s a great place to enjoy a Colombian-style communal dinner with a lively atmosphere.
12. Alambique
Alambique is one of Medellin’s trendiest restaurants, offering a unique take on traditional Colombian cuisine.
It’s the kind of place you reserve for a special occasion, as prices are higher than typical Colombian restaurants in the city, but the creative dishes and exceptional atmosphere make it worth a visit.
Reservations are highly recommended unless you plan to go during off-peak hours.
The restaurant’s ambiance is part of the experience, with a vintage aesthetic complemented by indoor greenery that adds a natural and cozy vibe.
Alambique’s menu is perfect for groups, as many of the dishes are served in large portions designed for sharing, though they also cater to smaller groups.
Among the most popular dishes that regulars rave about are:
Ceviche de chicharrón (68,000 COP) – a massive 800-gram plate of fried pork belly, enhanced by the spicy ceviche sauce.
It’s a delicious fusion of rich, crispy pork and intense ceviche flavors.
Pecho de res (58,000 COP): Beef brisket slow-cooked for 10 hours, finished over charcoal for a tender, smoky flavor.
Cazuela de sobrebarriga (55,000 COP): This bowl of pulled pork, served with homemade nachos, is a perfect sharing dish for two and delivers on flavor and texture.
These three dishes are not to be missed and often sell out due to their popularity, especially the chicharrón ceviche.
While the menu has more to offer, these specialties remain the most popular dishes on Alambique’s list.
Whether you’re celebrating or just looking to explore some of Medellín’s most creative dishes, Alambique is a great choice for locals and tourists alike.
13. Leños y Carbón
Leños y Carbón es una exitosa cadena de restaurantes en Colombia con sucursales en Medellín, Bogotá y más.
Si quieres explorar la comida casera colombiana en un ambiente limpio y bien organizado, este restaurante es muy recomendable.
Los platos reconfortantes incluyen sopas colombianas, morrillo (morcilla colombiana) y uno de nuestros favoritos: Celentado Paisa (25.900 COP), que es un plato de arroz con frijoles, chicharrón (panceta de cerdo) y plátano al horno servido con huevo frito, arepas y aguacate.
También recomendamos probar sus morcillas Leños (10.900 COP).
Esta delicia puede sonar demasiado aventurera para algunos, ya que está hecha con sangre, pero es realmente sabrosa y uno de los platos destacados de la cocina colombiana.
Además de estos platos clásicos, Leños y Carbón también se especializa en carne de res, y los amantes de los filetes quedarán satisfechos.
Incluso el Sándwich de Lomo de Res a la Paprika Combo, un sándwich de carne con papas fritas, es realmente sabroso gracias a la alta calidad de la carne, se derrite en la boca.
Leños y Carbón es ideal para personas que quieran explorar la cocina colombiana con un buen servicio y comida sabrosa en un ambiente bien organizado.
14. Pollos a la Brasa Mario La América
Pollos a la Brasa Mario La América is a beloved Colombian restaurant in Medellín that I seek out in every city I visit.
Founded in 1968, this restaurant specializes in grilled chicken and it’s clear that they excel at it.
The menu is simple, with grilled chicken of various sizes, available with or without sides like arepas and potatoes.
In my opinion, the potatoes are more flavorful than the arepas, but both complement the heavenly, juicy chicken beautifully.
The real star here is the amazing sauce that the chicken is marinated in, which has earned Pollos a la Brasa Mario La América the title of serving the best grilled chicken in Medellín.
When the chicken is served, there is no cutlery provided.
Instead, you are given plastic gloves, which invite you to enjoy the meal cave-style, using your hands! I visited the branch in La América, which has the best reviews, but there is also a solid location in Poblado.
The interior is exactly what you would expect from a local restaurant; it’s not a place to dine finely, but rather a place to enjoy home-cooked food.
While they do offer a typical Colombian soup called Consomé de Menudencias, the main attraction is still the grilled chicken.
15. ChipStation
Every now and then you want something quick and tasty and it doesn’t matter that it’s far from healthy.
ChipStation has several branches spread around the city and serves a variety of Salchipapas – French fries with all kinds of toppings.
While the Salchipapa is actually topped with Salchicha (a type of sausage), there are many variations to be found and at Chipstations the toppings are quite interesting.
Two of our favorites are the Colombian (15,900 COP) and the Mexican (15,900 COP).
The Colombian has a topping of chicharrón, beans, guacamole, and pico de gallo, while the Mexican is topped with pulled pork, guacamole, and pico de gallo.
ChipStation can be found in several shopping malls, but also in main streets like Poblado.
Tip: We recommend avoiding the venues in shopping malls during weekends at dinner time as you have to wait quite a while and the fries aren’t always that fresh because it’s so busy. In other words: avoid rush hour there.
16. La Rivera Manjares
We finish this article with a typical dessert that you must try when you’re in Medellin: rice pudding.
The best rice pudding – also known as arroz con leche – in Medellin can be found at La Rivera Manjares, which looks more like a house than a traditional restaurant and is located a little outside the city center.
This Colombian version of rice pudding is unique because it includes bits of cheese, making it a delicious treat.
A plate of rice pudding here costs just 7,000 COP, and the trip to La Rivera Manjares is already worth it for its panoramic views.
As you follow the road up the mountain, you’ll discover several great places to grab a drink while enjoying a spectacular view of Medellin.
If you don’t want to venture all the way to La Rivera Manjares, there’s another rice pudding specialist in town.
Located in Envigado, Arroz Con Leche La Vacapeca has a van where the driver sells delicious rice pudding on the street.
Looking for more food inspiration?
Have a look at our most extensive food article with all sorts of restaurant recommendations in Medellín. From there, you can also navigate to specific