When you visit a new place, one of the first things you’ll want to do is savor the local cuisine and discover the unique flavors the city has to offer. And if you find yourself in Medellin, consider yourself fortunate because the City of Eternal Spring has emerged as one of the most remarkable gastronomic destinations in the region. At Local Tours, we made it our mission to thoroughly explore the city, gathering insights from both locals and visitors to create a comprehensive guide to the best restaurants in Medellin, Colombia.
Mondongos
Mondongos is the top choice for the best traditional restaurants in Medellin. It’s where paisa families go on weekends and the first stop for visitors seeking the city’s finest typical food. Here, you can try dishes like ajiaco, mondongo, lentils, and, of course, the emblematic bandeja paisa. This restaurant is famous for its family-friendly atmosphere, good and quick service, and generous portions. It’s the perfect place to experience the paisa culture.
Where: Laureles: Cra. 70 # C3-43 or El Poblado: Cll. 10 #38-38
Hours: Monday to Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM Thursday to Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday and Holidays: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
El Rancherito
When you visit Medellin, you simply can’t settle for just one bandeja paisa, a single chicharrón, or a solitary patacón. That’s why our next recommendation is El Rancherito, which is so famous for its Medellin food. With its traditional decor adorned with handicrafts, this place will transport you to the rustic farms of Antioquia, and the food will instantly make you feel at home. Since 1975, El Rancherito has been delighting its customers with mouthwatering tostones de chicharron and savory bean dishes. And that’s not all—don’t miss out on their delightful traditional breakfasts featuring the famous arepa paisa, empanadas, and typical calentaos.
Where: It has 7 locations, some of the best known are: Mercados del Rio: Cra. 48 # 26-1 Molinos: Cll. 30 A # 82 A 26 Envigado: Cra. 48 #32 B Sur 139 Local 366, Las Vegas Av.
Hours: Each location has different schedules that you can check here.
Mamba Negra
For a captivating journey into international cuisine, Mamba Negra is the perfect destination. One of Medellin’s best restaurants, it blends the essence of Spanish, Asian, and Latin American flavors, creating a truly one-of-a-kind dining experience. Prepare to be delighted by the impeccable service, innovative and eclectic dishes, and the most breathtaking view of the city. Mamba Negra’s must-try dishes include the delightful tuna tartar, tantalizing Korean chicken, and flavorful yucca croquettes. And of course, don’t miss out on their fun and delicious cocktails!
Where: El Poblado: Cll. 2 #20-50
Hours: Monday to Thursday: 6:00 PM – 12 AM Friday and Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Sunday: Closed
La Gitana en las Nubes
To continue your food journey in Medellin, make sure you visit La Gitana en las Nubes, an enchanting restaurant nestled in the middle of a forest with a fantastic view of the city. This is the best restaurant in Medellin to escape your daily routine and dare to try new dishes. They specialize in ancient cuisine and beverages, rediscovering old flavors and cooking methods to create spectacular dishes like tempura eggplant, red tuna steak burgers, and chalupa criolla. While immersing yourself in nature, you can also enjoy delicious cocktails, great music, and stay cozy with bonfires and blankets.
Where: Km 0.3, Tv. de la Montaña, Envigado
Hours: Thursday to Saturday 3 PM – 12 AM Sunday 3 PM – 10:30 PM
Creta
For an exotic and flavorful dining experience, Creta is the place to go. The Arabic-style architecture will make you feel like you’ve stepped into Lebanon. Their menu brings together the best of Mediterranean and Arab cuisine, featuring Middle Eastern dishes such as shawarmas, fried eggplant with lamb (fatthe), and spiced lamb in Arabic bread (manakish sujok). While enjoying your meal, you can also immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere with live music and Arabic dancing. Don’t forget to treat yourself to their delectable desserts, including namura (a cake made with wheat semolina and coconut, served with pistachio ice cream) or the famous baklava.
Where: El Poblado: Cra. 43F #11-30
Hours: Tuesday to Thursday: 12:00 M – 12:00 PM Friday and Saturday: 12:00 M – 11:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 M – 4:00 PM Monday: Closed
Now you know where to start your adventure through the best restaurants in Medellin. You’ll find that Medellin offers restaurants that boast incredible views, intense flavors, and cocktails that are genuinely unique.
At Local Tours Medellin, we’ll be your trusted guide on your journey thanks to our extensive knowledge of the city’s culinary scene and of the best things to do in Medellin. And if you’re eager to explore beyond the city, join our tours to a coffee farm or Guatapé, where you can truly immerse yourself in the flavors of the region.
