Cartagena is a popular Colombian travel destination, boasting one of the country’s liveliest dining scenes. Here you’ll find seafood restaurants aplenty, plus many fine eateries serving cuisine from around the world. There’s something for every member of the family in Cartagena—here are some favorites.
## A Culinary Journey Through Cartagena: Family-Friendly Feasts
Cartagena, a city pulsating with life and steeped in history, proudly holds its title as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But beyond its stunning colonial architecture and vibrant culture, Cartagena beckons as a prime destination for food enthusiasts. The city’s gastronomic landscape has been enriched by talented chefs from every corner of the globe, all drawn to this Spanish-colonial jewel to establish remarkable restaurants.
Cartagena is celebrated for its exceptional seafood, with a particular emphasis on the iconic *ceviche* – a tantalizing dish featuring raw fish marinated in zesty lemon juice and infused with the fiery kick of chili peppers. However, the culinary tapestry of Cartagena extends far beyond seafood. This city offers a diverse range of dining experiences to suit every palate, from exquisite *haute cuisine* that rivals the world’s finest establishments to humble street stalls brimming with delicious local favorites. The atmosphere is often electric, with live music and spirited dancing spilling out onto the charming cobbled plazas, creating an unforgettable sensory experience.
Within the ancient walls of the **historic center**, you’ll discover a plethora of dining options, and the vibrant neighborhood of **Getsemani**, especially around the bustling **Plaza de la Trinidad**, also boasts a remarkable selection. Further afield, sprinkled throughout the city, are other noteworthy culinary gems waiting to be discovered. To simplify your choices for family dining, we’ve carefully curated a list of seven exceptional establishments that are sure to please both parents and children alike.
## Demente: A Tapas Paradise in Getsemani
**Demente** stands out as a relatively new restaurant, quickly gaining popularity for its unique charm and delectable offerings. Its prime location, just a stone’s throw from **Plaza de la Trinidad** in the trendy and historic **Getsemani** neighborhood, makes it an ideal spot to begin your culinary exploration.
The restaurant’s menu showcases a creative fusion of flavors, with tapas-style dishes like succulent crab dumplings, delicate tuna tartare, and savory pork accompanied by chimichurri sauce. To complement your meal, **Demente** offers a carefully curated selection of local beers.
Younger diners will undoubtedly be drawn to **Demente’s** wood-fired pizzas, prepared with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor. The restaurant’s open-air garden provides a delightful setting for a family meal, while the proximity to the plaza means you can easily find refreshing Mexican-style “paleta” ice cream bars sold just outside. **Demente** offers an atmosphere where children can feel relaxed and entertained, making it a great option for families dining together.
*Cra. 10 #29-29, Plaza de la Trinidad, Cartagena*
## Gelatería Tramonti: A Taste of Italy in the Tropics
In Cartagena, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to ice cream parlors, but **Gelatería Tramonti** consistently earns our vote as the best. Located just a short two-block stroll from **Plaza Santo Domingo**, this charming gelateria offers an authentic Italian experience with a tropical twist.
The Italian owner, captivated by the beauty of Colombia and the warmth of its people, crafts artisanal Italian gelatos and sherbets using fresh, locally sourced tropical fruits. Encourage your children to try exotic flavors like lulo, passion fruit, or even tomato (yes, it’s a fruit!). Classic flavors like mint-chocolate are also available for those who prefer familiar favorites. For the adults, the addictive mojito ice cream is a must-try! **Gelatería Tramonti** also offers a selection of vegan-friendly flavors, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Each scoop of gelato is prepared with passion and care, resulting in an unforgettable taste of Italy in the heart of Cartagena.
*Calle de Ayos #4-50, El Centro, Cartagena*
## Restaurante Don Juan: Fine Dining with a Family Flair
**Restaurante Don Juan**, one of Cartagena’s most distinguished dining establishments, offers a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere for families. The restaurant’s lovely bistro-style ambiance, filled with natural light, creates a relaxed and elegant setting. Favored by Colombia’s elite, including President Juan Manuel Santos (who enjoys the grilled sea bass), **Restaurante Don Juan** requires advance reservations to secure your table.
While the restaurant is on the pricier side, the exquisite Basque-inspired dishes are well worth the splurge. Indulge in grilled octopus, crayfish, and lobster risotto, or savor the flavors of grilled lamb chops with artichoke aioli and yucca fries. Despite its upscale reputation, **Restaurante Don Juan** warmly welcomes children. Young diners will delight in the tempting desserts, such as decadent chocolate cake and *pan tres leches* (three milks bread) with fresh cream. The flambéed pineapple with rum, coconut milk ice cream, and sweet red fruit syrup provides a dazzling culinary spectacle.
Chef Juan Felipe Camacho further enhances the family experience by offering engaging cooking classes for all ages. The lessons allow everyone to learn about the local cuisine and create their own mouthwatering masterpieces. **Restaurante Don Juan** offers a unique blend of sophisticated dining and family-friendly activities, making it an exceptional choice for an unforgettable culinary adventure in Cartagena.
*Calle de Colegio #34-60, El Centro, Cartagena*
## Pasteleria Mila: A Sweet Escape for the Whole Family
When your kids crave a sweet treat, head straight to **Pasteleria Mila**, a delightful bakery-café created by renowned Colombian celebrity chef Camila Vargas. This charming establishment offers a wide array of delectable goodies that will satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth.
For a light lunch, **Pasteleria Mila** serves fresh soups, salads, and gourmet sandwiches, all prepared with freshly baked bread. However, the real stars of the show are the irresistible desserts. From Oreo Cookie brownies and Key lime cheesecake to rich chocolate cake adorned with gold-flaked icing, each dessert is crafted with meticulous attention to detail.
Children will be thrilled with the crispy *churros* (fried dough pastries) dipped in hot chocolate, a classic treat that’s sure to bring smiles. **Pasteleria Mila** also offers familiar favorites from home, such as brownies, hot chocolate, and a breakfast special featuring pancakes topped with crispy bacon.
*Calle de la Iglesia #35–76, El Centro*
## La Cevichería: A Celebration of Caribbean Flavors
No culinary journey through Cartagena is complete without experiencing the city’s signature dish: ceviche. At Chef Jorge Escandon’s acclaimed **La Cevichería**, featured on Anthony Bourdain’s “Parts Unknown,” you’ll discover a ceviche experience like no other. This is where you can sample a bowl of delicious raw fish (sometimes accompanied by octopus and shrimp) marinated in zesty lime juice, but that is not all. Here, mango and coconut are added for a delightful sweet-and-sour twist.
The restaurant’s vibrant and animated atmosphere is perfect for families, with colorful dishes mirroring the energy of the surroundings. The menu offers kid-friendly options like crab claws with honey-mustard vinaigrette or simple fish cubes with French fries. To quench their thirst, children will love the blended *limonada* (limeade), especially the *limonada cerezada* (cherry-flavored limeade). **La Cevichería** offers a fun and flavorful dining experience that captures the essence of Caribbean cuisine.
*Calle Stuart #714, El Centro, Cartagena*
## Restaurante Club de Pesca: A Fortified Feast with a View
If your children enjoy imaginative play and creating forts, they’re certain to be captivated by **Club de Pesca**. This unique restaurant is housed within an actual colonial fort, Fuerte San Sebastián del Pastelillo, offering a dining experience unlike any other in Cartagena.
The setting, overlooking the harbor toward the historic center, is particularly stunning at sunset. **Club de Pesca** offers both indoor and outdoor dining options, with the option of requesting a private table at one of the fort’s former cannon emplacements. The menu primarily features seafood but includes a variety of other dishes to suit diverse tastes.
Children might be tempted to join in the lively salsa or bossa nova music often playing at the restaurant. **Club de Pesca** also provides a complimentary shuttle service to and from the historic center for added convenience. Due to its popularity among locals, reservations are essential to ensure your family secures a table.
*Fuerte San Sebastián del Pastelillo, Manga, Cartagena*
## Restaurante Paco’s: Plaza Dining with a Lively Vibe
For a memorable family experience, consider hiring a horse-drawn carriage for a tour of the Walled City, culminating in a visit to **Paco’s**, located in front of the cathedral on the cobbled **Plaza Santo Domingo**. Named after its founder, the late Paco de Onis, this lively restaurant offers a prime location for families to relax under patio umbrellas and soak in the vibrant street life.
**Paco’s** serves a variety of dishes, including sandwiches, soups, and stuffed crêpes. The restaurant is known for its family-sized chorizo and seafood paella, best enjoyed with a refreshing *coco limonada* (coconut lemonade) or sangria. On weekend evenings, Los Veteranos de Ritmo invite guests to dance to Cuban rhythms. For dessert, adults and children will love the tiramisú or caramel flan. **Paco’s** provides a lively and engaging atmosphere where families can enjoy delicious food, music, and the vibrant energy of Cartagena.
*Calle 35 #5, Plaza Santo Domingo*
## Street Stalls: A Taste of Authentic Cartagena
Throughout the historic district, you’ll encounter street carts brimming with fresh fruits and tasty local snacks. Sample *arepas de huevo* (fried corn cakes stuffed with egg), *buñuelos* (deep-fried maize and cheese balls), *empanadas* (fried pastries stuffed with meats, vegetables, and potato), and refreshing coconuts.
Eating from these carts offers a fantastic opportunity to connect with locals and introduce children to Colombia’s rich culture. Be sure to wash down your food with fresh fruit juices or coco limonada. Pay close attention to hygiene standards when choosing a street stall. Sticking to stalls in the tourist zones, within the Walled City or **Getsemani**, is generally recommended. If you or your children have sensitive stomachs, it’s best to avoid carts selling ceviche and fruit-flavored shaved ice drinks.
Exploring the street food scene in Cartagena is an adventure that can offer a very authentic, local experience, while trying out traditional fare.
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