Cartagena, Colombia, is a city where history meets vibrant culture and a deeply rooted culinary tradition. While tourists flock to its colorful streets and historic plazas, some of the most unforgettable experiences await those who venture into the city’s hidden alleys. Here, away from the crowds, you can savor spectacular local dishes that boast unique flavors, rich heritage, and fresh ingredients sourced from the Caribbean coast. If you’re ready to step off the beaten path and delight your taste buds, these six dishes in Cartagena’s tucked-away corners promise stories you’ll proudly share long after your trip.
1 Discovering the Soul of Cartagena: Arepas de Huevo Like No Other
One of the first treats you must try in Cartagena’s narrow side streets is the Arepa de Huevo. This isn’t your everyday arepa—it’s a crispy, golden corn cake deep-fried with a whole egg inside, creating a delicious explosion of textures and flavors. Originating from Cartagena’s Afro-Caribbean communities, this snack represents centuries-old culinary tradition.
The best way to enjoy Arepas de Huevo is fresh and hot from local street vendors, typically found around the Getsemaní neighborhood or close to Plaza de la Trinidad. Vendors here often family-run, have perfected their unique recipes over generations. Pair your arepa with a side of ají (spicy sauce) or hogao (a savory tomato and onion sauce) for an authentic taste experience.
When exploring these alleys, take note of the hustle and bustle and soak up the local atmosphere as you bite into this crunchy delight. Pro tip: Be ready with cash, as these vendors rarely accept cards, and try to go mid-morning or afternoon to avoid long waits. The price is usually around 3,000 to 5,000 Colombian pesos, making it both a wallet-friendly and finger-licking good adventure.
2 Flavorful Escabeche de Pescado: Tangy, Spicy, and Unforgettable
For seafood lovers, Cartagena’s hidden alleys reveal a dish that stuns with its vibrant fusion of flavors—Escabeche de Pescado. This dish consists of fried fish marinated in a citrusy, pickled sauce with a blend of vinegar, onions, peppers, and spices giving it a tangy kick. This preservation method dates back to Spanish colonial times but has been lovingly adapted with local ingredients.
To taste genuine Escabeche, head to small family-owned eateries near the San Diego neighborhood. These spots prioritize fresh catch from the Caribbean Sea, often using snapper or local white fish. The acidic sauce perfectly balances the crispy fried fish, making every bite a perfect blend of spice, savoriness, and zest.
When dining here, order additional sides like coconut rice or patacones (fried green plantain slices) to complement the dish’s strong flavors. These alleys are usually quiet in the daytime except for locals, so you get an authentic experience far from touristy restaurants. Escabeche de Pescado is a spectacular choice that defines the coastal gastronomy Cartagena is known for.
3 Savoring Posta Negra Cartagenera: The Beef Dish Steeped in Tradition
Posta Negra Cartagenera is a must-try that appears on almost every local’s favorites list. This dish consists of juicy beef roast slow-cooked in a dark, sweet, and tangy sauce made with cola, garlic, onions, and regional spices. The result is tender meat infused with the complex flavor of caramelized sauce.
You’ll find this gastronomic gem inside tiny traditional eateries hidden in the alleys of the Old City, especially near Calle de Curato and Plaza Fernández de Madrid. Many of these establishments have been around for decades, preserving exact cooking methods passed down through generations.
A good tip is to arrive early for lunch, as local workers and residents flock to these places for the hearty midday meal. It’s often served with coconut rice, fried plantains, and a fresh salad, creating a perfect balance between savory and sweet flavors on your plate.
Experience Posta Negra Cartagenera in these out-of-the-way spots, and you’ll understand why it’s a dish locals brag about to visitors, embodying Cartagena’s culinary soul.
4 Delight in Carimañolas: The Ultimate Caribbean Street Snack
Carimañolas are another iconic street food in Cartagena, especially impressive for travelers eager to try authentic street eats. These fried yuca fritters stuffed with seasoned ground meat, usually beef or pork, offer a delightful crunch on the outside and flavorful filling within.
Hidden alleys in the Getsemaní district are excellent places to hunt down carimañolas. Many roadside stalls sell them fresh, often accompanied by hot sauces or a tangy hogao dip. This snack’s popularity isn’t just about taste; it’s a connection to the African and indigenous roots of Cartagena’s culinary heritage.
If you’re visiting during late afternoon, carimañolas make a perfect light meal or quick pick-me-up before dinner. Watching the vendors expertly deep-fry each fritter while chatting with locals gives a true street-food vibe that major tourist areas rarely provide.
As a budget-friendly option costing about 2,000-4,000 Colombian pesos, carimañolas are ideal for foodies ready to explore the tastes of Cartagena’s lesser-known corners.
5 Sampling Mote de Queso: A Caribbean Cheese Soup with a History
If you chance upon a small eatery offering Mote de Queso tucked down a quiet lane, don’t hesitate. This traditional Caribbean cheese soup is hearty, creamy, and comforting—made with costeño cheese, yams, and coconut milk. The dish is a staple in Cartagena’s street food culture, prized for its rich texture and satisfying taste.
Unlike many tourist-oriented restaurants, alleyway diners serve Mote de Queso just like locals love it, sometimes accompanied by freshly baked corn tortillas. The soup’s subtle smoky and salty notes reveal the nuances of costeño cheese, a special ingredient unique to Colombia’s Caribbean coast.
To find authentic Mote de Queso, explore the San Diego district alleys in the early morning or late evening, typical times for families to gather around such comfort food. Ordering this dish allows you to taste a piece of Cartagena’s culinary legacy, offering both warmth on cooler nights and a distinctive Caribbean taste.
6 Indulge in Dulce de Guayaba: Sweet Guava Pastel from Hidden Pastries
Finally, no food adventure is complete in Cartagena without a taste of Dulce de Guayaba. This guava paste, often wrapped in soft, flaky pastries or paired with white cheese, provides a perfect ending to any meal or a mid-afternoon treat as you wander the city’s alleys.
Small bakeries and local markets in hidden alleys of Getsemaní or around the Old City’s quieter streets often hold the best versions. Here, you’ll find Dulce de Guayaba made traditionally, without excessive sugar, highlighting the fruit’s natural sweetness.
For the best experience, try the combination of guava paste with tangy costeño cheese, a pairing so beloved in Colombia it’s considered a must-try culinary duo. These pastries and sweets are not only delicious but reflect the simple yet profound flavors of Caribbean Colombia’s dessert culture.
Exploring Cartagena’s hidden alleys unlocks a treasure trove of culinary delights that encapsulate the city’s Afro-Caribbean heritage, fresh coastal ingredients, and centuries of tradition. From the crispy Arepas de Huevo to the comforting Mote de Queso, these six dishes offer travelers unforgettable tastes paired with authentic local experiences. Venture off the main streets, connect with neighborhood vendors, and prepare to come home with stories of gastronomic adventures worthy of bragging rights.
