Cartagena is a beautiful and vibrant city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, renowned for its stunning architecture, rich history, and delicious cuisine. While the food in Cartagena is certainly worth indulging in, travelers may wonder about the prices of meals and how to eat well without breaking the bank. In this article, we’ll provide a guide to Cartagena’s food prices and offer tips on how to find budget-friendly meals.
Budget friendly options in Cartagena
Cartagena offers a range of budget-friendly options for travelers looking to save money while still enjoying delicious cuisine. Here are some examples of affordable dishes and where to find them:
Empanadas: These savory turnovers are a staple of Colombian cuisine and can be found at street food vendors throughout the city. Prices typically range from 0.70 to 1.40 USD per empanada.
Arepas: Another popular Colombian food, arepas are corn cakes often filled with cheese or meat. Prices typically range from 0.70 to 2 USD per arepa.
Menu del Dia: Many restaurants in Cartagena offer a daily set menu with a main course, side dish, and a drink for a fixed price. Prices typically range from 3 to 6 USD per menu del dia, depending on the restaurant and location.
Fruit vendors: Cartagena is known for its tropical fruits, and travelers can find vendors selling fresh fruit throughout the city. Prices vary depending on the type of fruit, but most are affordable and a healthy snack option.
Mid-range dining in Cartagena
If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial or upscale, Cartagena also offers a range of mid-range dining options. Here are some examples of popular mid-range restaurants and their prices:
El Boliche Cebicheria: This seafood restaurant offers a range of ceviche dishes and other seafood specialties. Prices typically range from 8 to 16 USD per dish.
Di Silvio Trattoria: This Italian restaurant offers a range of pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas. Prices typically range from 7 to 16 USD per dish.
Cuzco Cocina Peruana: This restaurant offers a fusion of Peruvian and Colombian cuisine, with dishes like ceviche and lomo saltado. Prices typically range from 6 to 12 USD per dish.
La Mulata: This restaurant offers traditional Caribbean dishes like seafood stew and plantains. Prices typically range from 6 to 12 USD per dish.
Fine dining in Cartagena
For those looking to splurge on a special meal, Cartagena offers a range of high-end dining options. Here are some examples of popular fine dining restaurants and their prices:
Restaurante 1621: Located in the Santa Teresa Hotel, this restaurant offers gourmet cuisine with a focus on Colombian ingredients. Prices typically range from 22 to 42 USD per dish.
Carmen: This high-end restaurant offers a fusion of Colombian and Mediterranean cuisine. Prices typically range from 16 to 32 USD per dish.
Don Juan: This restaurant offers a range of gourmet dishes made with local ingredients. Prices typically range from 19 to 32 USD per dish.
Vera: Located in the Tcherassi Hotel, this restaurant offers a fusion of Italian and Caribbean cuisine. Prices typically range from 16 to 26 USD per dish.