The 10 Best Restaurants of Medellín

Medellín, Colombia is a beautiful city known for its vibrant culture, friendly residents, and delicious cuisine. The nightlife in this incredible city is also legendary, with numerous bars and restaurants scattered throughout the sprawling metropolis. As a tourist or a local, there are several great restaurants and eateries where you can sample the best delicacies the city has to offer. Here are the ten best restaurants in Medellín:

1. Carmen

Carmen is a chic restaurant located in the El Poblado neighbourhood of Medellín. It is popular amongst tourists and locals alike and is known for serving contemporary dishes that incorporate traditional Colombian ingredients. From the food to the drinks, everything at Carmen is a gourmet masterpiece.

2. El Cielo

El Cielo is another sleek and luxurious restaurant located in Medellín’s upscale El Poblado neighbourhood. One of the most remarkable things about this restaurant is its atmosphere. It boasts stunning views of the city and the decor is simply breathtaking. The food is also excellent, and the menu is a collection of Colombian classics with a modern twist.

3. Mangle Seafood House

Mangle Seafood House is an open-air restaurant located in the Patio Bonito neighbourhood. The restaurant specializes in seafood dishes, and the menu is diverse – featuring everything from tuna ceviche to grilled octopus. Guests can enjoy their meals as they take in the beautiful riverside setting.

4. Oci.Mde

Oci.Mde is an intimate restaurant located in the San Diego neighbourhood of Medellín. The restaurant serves contemporary cuisine based on Mediterranean flavours, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The ambiance at Oci.Mde is cozy and inviting, and the service is among the best in the city.

5. La Provincia

La Provincia is located in Laureles and has been serving up some of the best food in the city since 1988. Its menu boasts an array of dishes from the Antioquia region, as well as international cuisine. The restaurant’s atmosphere is down-to-earth and friendly, making it perfect for relaxed dining.

6. Restaurante Hato Viejo

Restaurante Hato Viejo is a restaurant located in Sabaneta that specializes in traditional Colombian dishes. The menu has a range of options, but their flagship dishes include the bandeja paisa and the sancocho. Guests can enjoy their meals in a serene countryside setting.

7. El Cielito Lindo

El Cielito Lindo is a restaurant located in La América and is known for its simple, clean flavours. Their menu focuses on Mexican cuisine, with dishes like tacos and tostadas being some of the most popular. The restaurant has a fun, laid-back atmosphere and is perfect for all kinds of occasions.

8. Delirio

Delirio is located in Medellín’s El Poblado neighbourhood and is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates fine dining. The menu at this restaurant is eclectic, featuring fusion dishes that are a blend of Colombian and international cuisine. The restaurant’s wine list is also extensive, and the desserts are to die for.

9. La Brasa Roja

La Brasa Roja is a famous chain of restaurants that is popular in Colombia and other parts of Latin America. The restaurants serve delicious chicken dishes that are prepared using traditional Colombian recipes. La Brasa Roja is known for its casual atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed night out.

10. Kokoriko

Kokoriko is another popular Colombian chain of restaurants that specializes in roasted chicken. The restaurant has a unique seasoning blend that makes their chicken standout from other chains. They also offer an array of side dishes to accompany the main course.

In conclusion, these are the ten best restaurants in Medellín. From the upscale and luxurious to the casual and friendly, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful Colombian city. Whether you’re a long-time resident, a tourist, or just passing through, be sure to check out some of these amazing restaurants and enjoy the mouth-watering cuisine they have to offer.

The Insider’s Guide to Medellín: Discover a City Full of Surprises

Medellín, the city of eternal spring, is a destination that offers an array of delightful surprises to each traveler. It is a lively and vibrant city that captures the essence of Colombia. As an insider, I will share a local’s perspective on how to make the most of your visit and discover the hidden gems that Medellín has to offer.

Explore the Local Attractions

Medellín is home to some of Colombia’s most stunning natural landscapes, including the magnificent valley of Aburrá. The must-visit sites are Parque Arví, a nature reserve that boasts beautiful forests and hiking trails, and the Comuna 13 neighborhood where you can see colorful street art that tells the story of the city’s transformation.

If you are looking for something different, I recommend visiting the ‘Museo Casa de la Memoria’ (Museum of Memory) to learn about the history of the armed conflict and the lives of the victims. It’s an essential visit to understand the city and Colombia’s social and political context.

Dine like a Local

Medellín is a food lover’s paradise, with a vast selection of authentic Colombian flavors. La Candelaria is a traditional restaurant offering a variety of regional dishes such as the famous ‘Bandeja Paisa.’ Or, for a more upscale experience, visit Carmen, which is consistently ranked as one of the best restaurants in Colombia, with a menu inspired by local ingredients.

If you have adventurous taste buds, visit Mercado del Rio, a gastronomic market known for the incredible variety of food it offers. It’s a perfect spot to grab a snack and soak in the city’s lively vibe.

Experience the Culture

Medellín is famous for its festivals and cultural events that celebrate the city’s rich musical and artistic heritage. One such event is the ‘Feria de las Flores,’ a colorful and vibrant festival that takes place each August. It showcases the city’s flowers, silleteros, traditional parades, and live music performances.

For an authentic experience, visit ‘La Casa del Teatro,’ a cultural center that provides a platform for local artists to showcase their talents. You can watch performances, dance shows, and even take part in dance classes to learn salsa, merengue, and other traditional Colombian dances.

Discover the Local History

One of the must-visit places in Medellín is ‘Cerro Nutibara,’ which hosts the famous “Pueblo Paisa.” It’s a replica of an old colonial town representing the traditional architecture and customs of Medellín.

For a more in-depth look into Medellín’s past, visit the ‘Museo de Antioquia,’ one of the oldest and most outstanding museums in Colombia. It’s home to a vast collection of colonial and contemporary art, including Botero’s sculptures.

Go Off the Beaten Path

If you want to experience a unique perspective of Medellín, take a night tour of the city using the ‘Metrocable.’ It’s a cable car that provides a 360-degree view of the city and its surroundings, from the mountains to the city skyline, all while enjoying the evening breeze.

Another off-the-beaten-path suggestion is visiting ‘Casa Tres Patios,’ one of the city’s most innovative art spaces, displaying contemporary art exhibitions, theater performances, and workshops.

In conclusion, Medellín is a city full of surprises, where you can find the perfect blend of nature, culture, and history. I hope this insider’s guide encourages you to explore the hidden gems of this beautiful city and enjoy an unforgettable trip in Colombia.