Authenticity never goes out of style, and Medellin’s Juana la Cubana is about as authentic as it gets short of sitting in a restaurant in Old Havana. It’s a great fit here in Barrio Jardines, a traditional neighborhood in Envigado where tastes lean towards classic elements like a simple bottle of rum and the son [...]

What comes to mind when you think of the Colombian bar scene? Green? Recycling? Not exactly… not until Caneco came along. Located in Poblado near Parque Lleras, this trendy new bar is not easily forgotten. With all of the furnishings made from reused materials, Caneco boasts a clever aesthetic while also reducing environmental impact. Look [...]

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Since opening their doors two years ago, Verdeo has won the reputation as being one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Medellin. Last week they opened up their beautiful new 2-story location two blocks above Parque Lleras in the Provenca sector of Poblado. The old location is now closed and they are now open everyday, excluding [...]

Mondogo, Ajiaco, and Cazuelita: common soup staples for any Colombian, and must-try traditional dishes for any visitor. Itas sticks to these traditional Colombian soups, and these alone.
Let’s review: there’s Mondongo, a hearty soup made with slow-cooked diced tripe (the cleaned stomach of a cow) and a half-dozen vegetables; Ajiaco, a savory soup with chicken, large [...]

Following up on our investigation of Medellin Salsero culture here, we went out in search of the real thing. During our local inquiry, el Tibiri came up again and again.

El Tibiri is one of the principal places to go out and dance salsa in Medellin. Founded in 1991, this steamy salsa joint has always attracted a [...]

In the new wave of sushi restaurants opening in Medellin, one stands out as a true delight to the senses. Forget what you thought you knew about sushi – with its sophisticated gourmet approach, Iki (“chic” in Japanese) provides Medellin with a whole new interpretation. Lead chef Alejandro Cadavid graduated from the local Colegiatura gourmet [...]

Tucked in among the restaurants on the bustling hot social strip alongside Parque Poblado, Latineria is the perfect spot to meet up with friends and start the night with a bright dash of color. At first glance this tiny bar is little more than a shot counter set in “Dia De Los Muertos” motif, but [...]

We might stir up some contention by recommending La Parrillita as the best spot for burgers in Medellin, but after three years in Medellin and weighing in on the other big contenders, The Arepa staff unanimously agrees that Parrillita takes the prize for #1. Now we all know that Argentina is known for really amazing, [...]

By Jeff Guerra. Photos by Elisa Roldan Restrepo

Known for its world-class coffee, Colombia is also an increasingly renowned producer of exceptional chocolate. It was always therefore puzzling that no one in Medellin ever decided to open a cozy, top rate chocolatier somewhere in town… until now.

It’s rare to find a restaurant that is perfect for any occasion. Out with friends? Family dinner? First date? Bou can do it all, and they do it in a warm atmosphere that feels like one big dinner party.
It’s all about tapas here, the famous Spanish phenomenon whereby a variety of smaller plates is served [...]