What to Eat in Bogotá: A Food Guide

What to eat in Bogotá

• Ajiaco santafereño

  Chicken + three-potato soup with corn + capers + cream — Bogotá's signature.

• Bandeja paisa

  Beans + rice + chorizo + chicharrón + fried egg + arepa + plantain — Colombian mega-plate.

• Tamales tolimenses

  Rice + chicken + pork + vegetables steamed in plantain leaves — Sunday breakfast staple.

What to drink

Bottled water only. Aguardiente is the national spirit; tinto (small black coffee) is the constant companion; Club Colombia + Águila the local beers.

Dining etiquette and practicalities

• Tip 10% at sit-down (often included as 'servicio incluido' — check bill).

• Colombia has South America's most sophisticated dining scene after São Paulo + Lima — book Leo, El Chato, Harry Sasson 2+ weeks ahead.

Where to eat in Bogotá

• La Candelaria

  Colonial old town + street art + universities + Plaza Bolívar + Museo del Oro — Casa Deco, Orchids Hotel, La Casona del Patio (boutique in colonial mansions).

• Zona G (Gourmet)

  Fine-dining epicentre + boutique — Four Seasons Casa Medina (Bogotá's finest), Click Clack Hotel, BOG Hotel.

• Zona Rosa / Zona T + El Retiro

  Nightlife + luxury shopping + Andino mall — JW Marriott, Grand Hyatt Bogotá, Hilton, W Bogotá.

• Chapinero + Chapinero Alto

  Bohemian + LGBTQ+ + design cafés + galleries — mid-range boutiques + apart-hotels; safety varies at night.