You’re looking for the best restaurants in Medellín and you need some great advice or just some inspiration?
We’ve got you covered. When it comes to food, Medellín is something else. From local eateries to upscale dining options, and everything in between, you can all find it in this city.
Areas like Poblado, Laureles, and Envigado are true foodie havens, and the ambience always plays a vital role aside from the delicious food that gets served.
I have been living in this city since the end of 2021 and have always been looking for nice places to eat from the beginning. As soon as I came across something special, I started writing about it.
With this page as a result.
This page has a different layout than you might be used to. First I write about my favorite restaurants in Medellin. But halfway down the page, you will find a long list of all kinds of (other and also previously mentioned) restaurants.
From there, you can then request more information including recommended dishes, menus, photos of the restaurant, and general information.
You can navigate directly to this part of the article by clicking on one of the following buttons.
If you’re looking for a brunch or dinner spot with unique flavors in Medellín, Mar y Fuego is a must-visit.
Nestled in El Poblado and surrounded by greenery, this restaurant offers an innovative menu that blends local ingredients with international influences.
Owned by a passionate couple—she manages hospitality while he leads the kitchen—Mar y Fuego stands out for its creative dishes. The chef even won Medellín’s Burger Contest in 2023, proving his culinary expertise.
Recommended Brunch Dishes
Brunch is served daily until 3:00 p.m., with prices ranging from 25,000 to 35,000 COP, except for premium ingredients like lobster and fresh tuna.
Recommended Dinner Dishes
Dinner dishes range from 50,000 to 75,000 COP, depending on the ingredients.
If you love fusion cuisine with a Colombian twist and fair prices, Mar y Fuego will surprise you. Get ready for an explosion of flavors!
Mar Y Fuego is also listed in several other food articles, including the best breakfast in Medellin and the best Brunch in Medellin. In those articles, you can find similar restaurants that offer unique food experiences.
Mamasita Medallo is one of our favorite spots in Medellín for delicious Colombian food in a laid-back setting—plus, the prices are refreshingly affordable.
While the city has plenty of upscale restaurants, we love places with a more casual vibe, and Mamasita Medallo delivers.
It’s the perfect spot to enjoy Colombian cuisine with friends, especially on weekends, since most dishes are easy to share alongside their tasty cocktails.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mamasita Medallo has plenty of other tempting options on its menu, but if you go for one of these three, you won’t be disappointed!
This restaurant is also listed in our article about the best Colombian restaurants in Medellín, where we recommend our favourite restaurants that solely serve exciting Colombian dishes. Ideal for those who want to go on a local food adventure.
While Mamasita Medallo offers a modern take on Colombian flavors, Hacienda sticks to tradition, making it one of the best places in Medellín for those wanting a true taste of Colombian cuisine.
This successful restaurant chain has multiple locations across the city, all focused on classic Colombian dishes like Bandeja Paisa, Sancocho, and Chicharrón-inspired specialties.
The staff wears traditional Andean attire, and the decor features charming colonial-style elements, creating an authentic dining experience.
Service is top-notch, and during our visits, the food arrived in under ten minutes—perfect for when you’re craving a hearty Colombian feast.
Recommended Dishes:
Both appetizers were the perfect crunchy, flavorful pairing to the rich Colombian soups. By the end of our meal, we were completely stuffed—so if you plan on ordering both a starter and a main course, come hungry!
With its authentic flavors, high-quality ingredients, and welcoming atmosphere, Hacienda is a must-visit for any tourist in Medellín looking for a true taste of Colombia.
Rocoto is a stylish Peruvian restaurant with locations in El Poblado and Laureles, serving up bold, citrusy flavors that set Peruvian cuisine apart. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative to Colombian food, this spot is a fantastic choice.
With an extensive menu, choosing the perfect dish might feel overwhelming—but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with our top recommendations.
Must-Try Dishes
If you have room for dessert, don’t skip these:
For a unique drink, try Chicha Morada (14,000 COP), a traditional Peruvian non-alcoholic beverage made from purple corn imported directly from Peru—Rocoto is the only place in Medellín serving the real deal!
With its vibrant dishes, high-quality ingredients, and fair prices, Rocoto is easily one of our favorite restaurants in Medellín.
Like many successful restaurants in Medellín, Rocoto has branches in Poblado, Laureles, and Envigado. That often means that you don’t have to travel to the other side of the city to dine at one of the popular venues in the city.
If you’re looking for restaurants in a specific part of Medellin, have a look at one of the following articles:
Relato is an upscale fusion restaurant that blends Mediterranean, Asian, and Latin flavors into one exciting menu.
Located in the vibrant Provenza area, it attracts a crowd that enjoys indulging in great food before hitting the nearby nightlife spots.
With EDM beats setting the mood on a Saturday night, it leans towards a lively atmosphere—yet still delivers a top-tier dining experience.
Most importantly, the food is incredibly flavorful.
Recommended Dishes
Other standout dishes include Picana Pacha, Entraña, and their signature dessert, Dulce Relato.
For those seeking a trendy dining spot with expertly crafted fusion dishes, Relato is an excellent choice. Whether you’re starting your night out or simply enjoying a great meal, this restaurant is a must-visit in Medellín.
If you’re craving delicious Mexican food without breaking the bank, Criminal Taquería is the place to be.
This small, no-frills taco joint offers outdoor seating only and sits right in the heart of Provenza, surrounded by bars and restaurants.
It’s the perfect spot for a quick bite—whether it’s during the day or after a night out. And if you like your food with a kick, their spicy salsa actually delivers on the heat.
Must-Try Tacos
The portions aren’t huge, but the flavors are on point. Since Provenza is packed with great food spots, you can easily restaurant-hop.
Just keep in mind that Criminal Taquería is one of the most popular late-night eats, so be prepared for a bit of a wait.
Looking for affordable, tasty tacos in Medellín? This is the spot.
Note: because it’s such a popular spot, nowadays, you can also find Criminal Taquería in Laureles. The one in Laureles is an actual restaurant, meaning that you can enjoy delicious tacos in a calmer environment.
If you’re in the mood for Mexican and Tex-Mex food, have a look at our article about the best Mexican restaurants in Medellín.
It’s no secret that El Poblado is packed with incredible restaurants, including some of the best Colombian spots.
Among them, La Matriarca stands out for its focus on chicharrón (crispy pork belly), making it a must-visit for anyone craving this iconic dish.
What makes their chicharrón special? It’s perfectly crispy on the outside while staying juicy on the inside—a balance that’s hard to master.
Plus, their portions are generous yet refined, avoiding the heavy, oversized servings common in Colombian cuisine.
Must-Try Dishes
La Matriarca isn’t just about the food—it’s a whole experience.
Live music on Fridays and Saturdays makes it a great spot for a night out, while Sundays are perfect for a laid-back Colombian breakfast.
For those looking for something lighter, they also offer dishes like Posta De La Negra (44,000 COP), ceviches, a vegetarian menu, and even food for your dog.
Whether you’re here for the crispy chicharrón or the lively atmosphere, La Matriarca is an essential stop in Medellín.
La Pampa is one of the biggest names in Medellín’s food scene, with multiple locations across the city.
Their success speaks for itself, and among their different restaurant concepts, La Pampa – Parrilla Argentina is the go-to spot for authentic Argentine cuisine.
Vegetarians, you might want to sit this one out—this is a meat lover’s paradise.
If you’re here for a true Argentine experience, you have to try the Recorrido Argentino, a full Argentine tasting journey that’s perfect for two. You can order all dishes individually, but if you opt for this tour, it gives you a good glimpse of what Argentinian cuisine is all about.
The Ultimate Argentine Food Tour
It starts with two classic appetizers:
For the main event, you’ll get two legendary Argentine meats:
There are plenty of other amazing meat platters to choose from. In my opinion, you should not miss their ribs (48,500 COP).
Marinated for eight hours, slow-cooked for four hours, and finished on the grill with a BBQ glaze, these ribs are next-level delicious.
A Sweet Argentine Ending
Wrap up your meal with the Alfajor Argentino (9,400 COP), a traditional Argentine shortbread cookie served with dark or white ice cream. It’s not overly sweet, making it the perfect way to finish an epic meal.
With top-tier steaks, slow-cooked meats, and a true Argentine vibe, La Pampa is a must-visit for any meat lover in Medellín.
For years, Alambique has been one of the most beloved restaurants in Poblado, and today, it’s widely considered a legendary spot for dining.
Nestled on the first floor of a charming, old building, this themed restaurant is ideal for group dining.
The menu, though not extensive, focuses on shareable dishes, creating a vibrant atmosphere that’s perfect for gathering with friends.
Because Alambique is a popular place for groups, expect it to be always packed, so reservations are highly recommended.
The real draw here, however, is the exceptional food that keeps people coming back for more.
Must-Try Dishes
The portions are generous, and if you’re visiting with a group, make sure to arrive hungry or invite plenty of friends to share the feast.
With its great atmosphere, exceptional food, and welcoming vibe, Alambique is an absolute must-visit in Poblado.
Kabuki is another standout from the La Pampa franchise and deserves a spot on the list of top restaurants in Medellín.
As you might have guessed, Kabuki specializes in Japanese cuisine, offering more than just sushi.
With two locations in the city — one in Provenza, sharing a building with La Pampa – Parrilla Argentina, and another at the Interplaza Shopping Mall — it’s a great option if you can’t decide between Argentinian and Japanese food.
Must-Try Dishes
In conclusion, Kabuki offers a diverse menu of Japanese dishes, extending far beyond just sushi, including delicious Teppanyaki options as well.
Whether you’re in the mood for sushi rolls, seafood, or rice dishes, this place is an incredible dining destination.
For more sushi options, have a look at our article about the best sushi in Medellín, where you can find plenty of other great restaurants including some that have awesome promotions.
Delirio Exquisito is a unique dining experience you won’t want to miss, offering a fusion of Mexican and Asian flavors that stands out in Medellín’s culinary scene.
The menu also features classic Tex-Mex dishes, but the true gems lie in their creative combinations of these two popular cuisines.
Must-Try Dishes:
For something different, try the fusion bowls on the menu, which go beyond typical Mexican and Asian offerings and provide creative, imaginative dishes.
While Delirio Exquisito does offer classic Mexican and Asian dishes, it’s their fused creations that truly set them apart.
With two locations in Laureles and Provenza, this more exclusive restaurant offers food you won’t find anywhere else in the city.
If you’re in the mood for something truly unique, Delirio Exquisito is the place to be.
If you’re craving succulent meat paired with perfectly crispy fries, Bárbaro Cocina Primitiva is the place to be.
The main attraction here is undeniably the meat – from ribs that practically fall off the bone to perfectly cooked steaks, it’s a carnivore’s dream.
What to Order:
If you’re not a fan of red meat, there are still options, such as the Suprema de Pollo (43,900 COP), offering a tender chicken breast for a lighter yet equally delicious alternative.
With two locations, one in Laureles and another in Provenza, Bárbaro Cocina Primitiva is the go-to spot in Medellín when you’re looking to indulge in great meat dishes.
Tucked away in the heart of Provenza, Hongbao is a small but mighty eatery that specializes in one thing: bao buns.
If you love bold flavors packed into soft, pillowy buns, this is the place to be.
A bao is a steamed bun, commonly found in Vietnamese and Cantonese cuisine.
At Hongbao, these buns are smaller in size but loaded with delicious fillings, making them perfect for trying multiple flavors in one sitting.
What to Order
While all the bao options are tasty, some flavors stand out more than others.
If you’re unsure what to pick, here are our top recommendations:
Each bao comes with pickled carrot and cucumber, but the sauces and seasonings make all the difference.
None of them are spicy by default, but sriracha is available on the side for those who want a kick.
What to Expect
The buns are priced between 12,000–18,000 COP each, which seems reasonable, but keep in mind they’re on the smaller side.
However, the flavor explosion in every bite makes up for the portion size!
Final Thoughts
Hongbao is a great spot for a quick, flavor-packed bite, and it’s easy to combine with a visit to Criminal Taqueria or one of the other pop-up restaurants nearby.
Whether you’re on a casual food crawl or just craving something different, these bao buns won’t disappoint!
El Piqueteadero de La Pampa is a crowd-pleaser, serving up bold flavors and generous portions that cater perfectly to the Western palate.
Unlike its sister restaurant, La Pampa Parrilla Argentina, which focuses on authentic Argentine cuisine, El Piqueteadero takes a more creative approach, blending Argentine flavors with Colombian ingredients.
You’ll also find Tex-Mex and Italian comfort food, making it a great spot for anyone craving something hearty and satisfying.
If you’re looking for a starter that truly showcases their fusion style, go for the Ceviche de Chicharrón (19,300 COP).
It’s not your typical Colombian ceviche—here, crispy deep-fried pork belly is served with nachos and guacamole instead of the usual mayo-based sauce.
The guacamole adds creaminess while balancing the tangy flavors, making it an addictive dish to share.
For tacos, don’t miss the Tacos el Aventurero (32,400 COP). These come loaded with sweet and sour pork belly, topped with a fresh salsa of onion, paprika, and coriander.
The balance of crispy pork, juicy flavors, and zesty salsa makes every bite a treat.
Another must-try is the Albondiguitas de Lomo de Cerdo (17,200 COP)—perfectly seasoned pork loin meatballs served with Neapolitan tomato sauce, melted cheese, and a touch of sour cream and Parmesan.
Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they’re pure comfort food.
Finally, for the ultimate meat feast, order the Cochinillo a Las Leñas (48,500 COP)—a 10-hour slow-roasted suckling pig, grilled just before serving for extra crispiness.
It’s rich, juicy, and pairs perfectly with salsa criolla and tender fried calamari on the side.
Big flavors, generous portions, and a menu packed with creative dishes—El Piqueteadero de La Pampa is the place to go when you’re hungry for something bold and delicious.
Mondongo’s is hands down the most famous restaurant in Medellín. Locals, tourists, and even celebrities—both Colombian and international—flock to its two branches to get a taste of their legendary Mondongo soup.
Mondongo is a traditional Antioquian soup made with beef tripe, packed with rich flavors, and served with rice, avocado, and plantain.
It’s so popular that both locations are packed daily, especially at lunchtime.
Expect a line, but don’t worry—this place runs like a well-oiled machine.
You’ll be seated within ten minutes, and your food will arrive almost instantly.
While Mondongo (26,500 COP for a junior plate, 36,000 COP for a full plate) is the star of the show, there are two other must-try dishes:
If you want a true taste of Medellín, Mondongo’s is a must. Come hungry, and prepare for a meal that’s as legendary as the restaurant itself.
This isn’t just an article about Colombian food—it’s about the best restaurants in Medellín, period. And let’s be honest: no matter where you travel, sometimes you just crave a good burger.
When that moment hits, Chef Burger is the place to go. With 16 locations in Medellín and a presence in Bogotá, Cali, and Barranquilla, it’s one of the most successful burger joints in Colombia.
Medellín’s burger scene is a bit different from what you might be used to—think unusual buns and over-the-top toppings.
But Chef Burger keeps things simple, focusing on high-quality patties with well-balanced flavors.
Their menu features a mix of classic and slightly more creative burgers, and these are the top picks:
Don’t forget to order their rustic fries as a side—they’re way better than regular fries.
If you’re on the hunt for the best burgers in Medellín, Chef Burger absolutely deserves a spot on your list.
If you’re searching for the best artisan pizza in Medellín, Pizzaiolo in Provenza is a top contender.
This small but incredibly popular pizzeria specializes in Neapolitan-style pizzas, and the steady stream of orders proves just how good they are.
With six to eight people working behind the counter, you know they’re doing something right.
Expect to wait 10 to 15 minutes for your pizza—totally reasonable for something this fresh and delicious.
The menu is simple yet solid, with prices ranging from 27,000 to 40,000 COP, ensuring there’s a perfect choice for every pizza lover.
Our top pick? The Pizza Margherita (27,000 COP)—a flawless classic that could easily compete with the best pizzas from Naples.
For something unique, try the Pepperoni Jam (40,000 COP), topped with pepperoni, Parmesan, burrata, and a touch of sweet dressing. While we personally prefer a fully savory pizza, many will love this unexpected flavor combo.
Naturally, Pizzaiolo is featured in our list of the best pizza spots in Medellín, alongside several other must-visit pizzerias.
Below, you’ll find a list of the best restaurants in Medellin. A short description is included where we explain the type of food the restaurant serves, the area in which the restaurant is located, and the price range of individual dishes.
If you’re looking for a specific type of restaurant or a specific area in Medellín, click on one of the options below.
Type of food: Trendy Colombian fusion dishes
Location: Poblado
Price range: 30.000 – 70.000 COP per dish
Description: One of my favorite restaurants in Medellin thanks to its creative menu. Unique, fusion dishes that you won’t find elsewhere in the city.
Type of food: Authentic Colombian food with a trendy twist
Location: Poblado
Price range: 26.000 – 56.000 COP per dish
Description: This trendy place serves tasty and beautifully presented Colombian dishes, all with a modern twist. The smaller portions are great for sharing!
Type of food: Peruvian
Location: Poblado
Price range: 21,500 – 42.000 COP per dish
Description: A trendy place to devour delicious Peruvian dishes. As you can expect from a Peruvian restaurant, there is a great variety of Ceviche to discover. Super tasty!
Type of food: Mexican and Asian fusion
Location: Poblado
Price range: 42,000 – 65.000 COP per dish
Description: A place where you can find unique dishes that combine Mexican and Asian cuisine. A great spot to find one-of-a-kind dishes.
Type of food: Grilled meats
Location: Laureles, Poblado
Price range: 48,000 – 78.000 COP per dish
Description: A meat-lovers paradise, with a good variety of grilled meats, both imported and local. Primarily beef, but alternatives are available on the menu.
Type of food: Mondongo, Ajiaco, Bandeja Paisa.
Location: Poblado
Price range: 36.000 – 52.000 COP per dish
Description: The most famous place in Medellin is to eat Mondongo. People from all over the world come to this place to try the beef tripe soup.
Type of food: Western burgers
Location: Poblado
Price range: 25.000 – 32.000 COP per dish
Description: Amazing burger restaurants that serve not-too-complicated Western burgers. Chef Burgers has many branches all over Medellin, ideal for a good-old hamburger.
Type of food: Colombian food, specialized in Chicharron
Location: Poblado
Price range: 30.000 – 60.000 COP per dish
Description: Fun place to dine with great Colombian food, one of the best Chicharron in the city, and plenty of entertainment (live music) during the evening.
Type of food: Coastal (sea)food
Location: San Fernando (Itagüi)
Price range: 29,000 – 42,000+ COP per dish
Description: This is a bit of a hidden gem. It’s located above a fish seller and from the outside, it doesn’t look inviting, but the coastal seafood here is simply divine!
Type of food: Mexican comfort food
Location: Laureles
Price range: 29.000 – 58.000 COP per dish
Description: Popular Mexican restaurant with a good variety of classic Mexican dishes, as well as a few very unique dishes you won’t find elsewhere in the city
Type of food: Authentic food from the region
Location: La Candelaria
Price range: 20.000 – 40.000 COP per dish
Description: Excellent place to devour typical Paisa food (food from the region). Tasty, authentic food in a great setting all for a bargain.
Type of food: Arepas (richly filled)
Location: Laureles
Price range: 9.000 – 16.000 COP per dish
Description: Richly filled arepas for a bargain. This successful restaurant chain proves that arepas are far from boring.
Type of food: Chicharron (famously known)
Location: Envigado
Price range: 50,000 – 55,000 COP per dish
Description: This local eatery is insanely popular, and serves the crispiest Chicharron in Medellin. Portions are huge, so they are easily shareable with two.
Type of food: Ajiaco and Mondongo (soups for lunch)
Location: Poblado
Price range: 22,500 – 26,700 COP per dish
Description: Famous for its Ajiaco and Mondongo soups, people all out of Medellin and beyond visit this local eatery for these soups.
Type of food: Coastal Colombian (sea) food
Location: Laureles
Price range: 35,000 – 100,000+ COP per dish
Description: Local eatery that serves heavenly Colombian coastal (sea)food. Definitely not a fancy restaurant and prices are reasonable (unless going for exclusive seafood).
Type of food: Pizza
Location: El Poblado
Price range: 27,000 – 40.000 COP per dish
Description: For me personally, among the best pizzas in Medellin. A small restaurant that has lots of amazing reviews and won the Pizza Master contest in the past.
Type of food: Belgium Fries
Location: Laureles
Price range: 12,000 – 30,000 COP per dish
Description: Belgium owner serving authentic Belgian fries with Argentinian meats. Tasty creations, although you can also get a basic one with Belgium mayo.
Type of food: Empanadas
Location: Laureles
Price range: 2,300 – 3,900 COP per dish
Description: Popular empanadas restaurant in Laureles serving tasty, well-balanced deep-fried snacks. Lots of sauces to choose from, which is a big plus.
Type of food: Arepas
Location: Laureles
Price range: 10,000 – 17,000 COP per dish
Description: This American diner-inspired eatery serves all sorts of loaded arepas. Most of these tasty arepas come with typical stuffings from the region.
Type of food: Mexican
Location: Guayabal
Price range: 9,900 – 19,900 COP per dish
Description: Outdoor eatery opposite of Arkadia Shopping Mall that serves tasty, affordable Mexican “street food”. Good variety of tacos and other classic Mexican dishes.
Type of food: Picada
Location: Poblado
Price range: 38,000 COP per person
Description: Popular family-friendly outdoor restaurant that’s famous for its picadas. These platters come with a good variety of meats.
Type of food: Pizza
Location: Poblado
Price range: 44,000 COP per person
Description: Popular pizza place that serves authentic Italian pizza with high-quality cheeses. Simplicity tastes amazing when cooking with these ingredients.
Type of food: Salchipapa & Fries
Location: Poblado, Laureles, Belen, Envigado
Price range: 15,900 COP per person
Description: Great place to eat fries and salchipapa. You can find many branches all over town where you can devour fries with all sorts of amazing toppings.
