Flavors of Cartagena: A Culinary Journey Through Afro-Colombian Heritage
Taste the Caribbean’s rich flavors on a culinary journey through Cartagena. Savor dishes like mote de queso and posta cartagenera, and be inspired by the stories, aromas, and Afro-Colombian traditions behind every bite.
What to Expect
Embark on a Flavorful Journey Through Cartagena’s Culinary Landscape
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Dive into the heart of Cartagena’s vibrant food scene, where each bite tells a story of the city’s rich Afro-Caribbean heritage. From bustling street corners to hidden local gems, you’ll explore the diverse flavors that make Cartagena a culinary hotspot.
Savor Iconic Dishes and Local Delicacies
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Indulge in traditional dishes like mote de queso, a savory cheese and yam soup, and posta cartagenera, a succulent slow-cooked beef dish. Discover the unique tastes of local snacks and sweets that have been cherished for generations.
Connect with Local Chefs and Vendors
- Meet the passionate individuals behind Cartagena’s culinary delights. Engage with local chefs, street food vendors, and market sellers who will share their personal stories and the cultural significance of their recipes.
Explore Vibrant Neighborhoods and Markets
- Stroll through lively neighborhoods and visit bustling markets where the city’s culinary traditions come to life. Experience the sights, sounds, and aromas that define Cartagena’s food culture.
Duration
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The tour duration is 3 hours.
Cartagena Gastronomic Wonders: A Closer Look
Join us on a flavorful journey through Cartagena, where every bite reveals a story of cultural fusion, family tradition, and Caribbean spirit. From savory stews to sweet coconut treats, this gourmet tour unveils the city’s most iconic dishes and hidden culinary gems.
We begin in Plaza de la Trinidad, a lively square that sets the stage for Cartagena’s rich food heritage. As a historic gateway to the Americas, Cartagena became a melting pot of flavors—where Afro-Colombian influence, local ingredients, and international techniques combine into a vibrant cuisine. From fresh Caribbean seafood to meats from Bolívar’s savannahs, every dish reflects the region’s diversity and heart.
Our first stop is Cocina de Pepina, a cozy seven-table restaurant owned by Cristian Sepúlveda and inspired by Sinú traditions. Here, you’ll taste mote de queso, a yam-and-cheese soup rich in flavor and history, served with coconut rice—a Cartagenero must. It’s comfort food with soul.
Next, we savor posta cartagenera, a slow-cooked holiday beef dish marinated to perfection. Served at Restaurante Sierpe, this dish honors classic recipes with a modern coastal twist, celebrating Caribbean seafood and bold local flavor.
In a restored colonial home, Rebelión fuses Caribbean and Pacific coast cuisines in an artistic setting. Vibrant décor and creative plating make this a feast for the senses—where tradition meets contemporary flair.
We wrap up at the beloved Portal de los Dulces. Here, cocadas and other handmade sweets provide the perfect ending, echoing the local love for sugar and celebration.
Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or simply curious, this tour is a delicious dive into Cartagena’s flavors, stories, and culinary soul—one of South America’s true gastronomic treasures.
A Glimpse of the tour
