Top 5: Restaurants in Medellín, Colombia

Medellín has undergone a rejuvenation in recent years and nowhere is this more obvious than the blossoming foodie scene. A rich display of diversity descended upon the city and, with it, dozens of options for travelers in search of great eats. Here are the five restaurants you shouldn’t miss.

El Herbario
As the name implies, El Herbario focuses on delicious meals packed full of herbs and vegetables. Grilled legumes with goat cheese and scrumptious soups are just two of the menu options designed to delight vegetarians and meat eaters alike. The best part? The floor-to-ceiling wall of wine.

In Situ
In Situ is renowned as much for its beauty as it is its food. The restaurant sits smack dab in the middle of Medellín’s botanic gardens so you can enjoy wonderful views while you chow down on delicious eats. Colombian flavors added to favorites like pesto chicken and salmon tartar make it a must.

Mondongos
Mondongos is little more than a hole in the wall, but it’s the best place in the city to dine on traditional Colombian dishes. Its namesake is the true draw, but you’ll also find incredible bandeja paisa on the extensive menu. It’s affordable, authentic and a local favorite.

El Cielo
El Cielo is an experimental kitchen run by chef Juan Manuel Barrientos, who favors molecular cuisine. Traditional Colombian flavors mixed with his imagination make for a one-of-a-kind South American experience. The tasting menu sees anywhere between 11 and 20 samples of frozen herbs and liquid nitrogen creations.

Barbaro Cocina Primitiva
This spectacular restaurant is styled after traditional American steakhouses and offers up some of the best barbeque in Colombia. The meats are all hand-picked and grilled to perfection by the owner and the cocktails are also made to perfection. The atmosphere is relaxed and staff attentive and friendly. Best of all, the prices are lower than similar restaurants in the city while offering better value.