Medellín’s rapid transformation from a crime haven to a dynamic and safe metropolis is reflected in its newly established food scene. The seven restaurants listed here will please the entire family, from sensational multi-cultural restaurants to cheap diners and quality fast-food options.
A Culinary Journey Through Medellín: A Family’s Guide to Delightful Dining Experiences
The heart of Colombia beats strong in the Antioquia region, and its pulse is perhaps most palpably felt in Medellín. The Paisas, the people who call Medellín and the surrounding Antioquia region home, possess a deep-seated love for traditional, unpretentious, country-style cuisine, often presented in impressively generous portions. The quintessential example of this culinary ethos is the celebrated bandeja paisa. This is not merely a meal; it’s a declaration of culinary abundance, a hearty platter overflowing with succulent roast pork, savory sausage, fluffy rice, creamy avocado, a perfectly fried egg, sweet plantain, and, of course, the ubiquitous and beloved arepas (Colombian corn cake), all rounded out with a fresh salad. In Medellín, you are never far removed from a restaurant proudly serving this iconic dish.
However, to assume that Medellín is solely about traditional Paisa food would be a gross mischaracterization. This vibrant city boasts a remarkable diversity of culinary experiences, ranging from authentic Italian cuisine and refined haute cuisine to the delicate art of sushi and the exotic flavors of Thailand. Excellent restaurants are scattered throughout the city, with notable concentrations found in the upscale El Poblado neighborhood, located south of the bustling city center, and in the increasingly popular Laureles neighborhood, which lies west of downtown. These areas offer a veritable smorgasbord of dining options to suit every palate and preference.
The prospect of dining out as a family need not be a budget-busting affair. Indeed, many restaurants are well-accustomed to catering to the needs and preferences of children. Moreover, Medellín offers no shortage of fast-food outlets, providing quick and convenient options, as well as local diners serving inexpensive, fixed-price lunch menus that provide a taste of authentic Colombian home cooking. However, a word of caution: if you are tempted by the enticing aromas emanating from street stalls, exercise prudence and carefully assess the hygienic practices of the vendors. To guide your culinary explorations, we present seven restaurants that we wholeheartedly recommend for satisfying family dining experiences.
Crepes and Waffles: A National Institution of Flavor
Crepes and Waffles is far more than just a national restaurant chain; it is a beloved institution deeply ingrained in the Colombian dining culture. The precise origins of Colombia’s fervent embrace of the crepe may remain a mystery, but one thing is undeniable: Crepes and Waffles elevates the crepe experience to an art form. Here, you will discover an extensive array of waffles and both sweet and savory crepes. Consider the classic pesto and mozzarella crepe, or indulge in their signature banana and arequipe (a luscious caramel-like confection akin to dulce de leche) crepe. For the more adventurous palate, inventive creations like the “salmon roll” crepe await. Beyond the crepe offerings, Crepes and Waffles also provides healthier choices such as crisp, refreshing salads, and their ice cream is simply divine. We particularly recommend the location within the El Tesoro Mall, situated in the upscale El Poblado neighborhood, for a convenient and enjoyable dining experience.
Mercado del Río: A Tropical Culinary Marketplace
The upscale Mercado del Río, reminiscent of New York’s bustling Chelsea Market but with a decidedly tropical twist, is an absolute must-visit destination when you find yourself in El Poblado. Boasting an industrial scale and ambiance, this vibrant marketplace houses nearly 50 distinct food stores and restaurants, each offering its unique culinary perspective. Most establishments feature open kitchens, allowing you to witness the culinary artistry firsthand, and many provide counter dining for a more casual experience. Furthermore, the second floor is home to full-service, sit-down restaurants for a more formal dining occasion. There is hardly a cuisine that is not represented within Mercado del Río’s diverse ecosystem: from the fiery flavors of Mexico to the comforting familiarity of Italy, the delicate artistry of Japan, and, of course, numerous outlets proudly serving traditional Paisa staples. Children will be captivated by the cool, energetic vibe of the market, as well as the tempting waffles at Monsieur Waffle or the juicy burgers at Mr. Pig. If it’s authentic arepas that you crave, be sure to sample the tres carnes (three meats) arepa at La Olla Atómica. Beyond the main courses, you’ll find yogurt shops, pastry shops, fresh fruit vendors, and a seemingly endless array of tempting desserts. Mercado del Río is conveniently located immediately south of the Bancolombia building, adjacent to the Industriales metro station, making it easily accessible.
Calle 24 48-28, El Poblado, Medellín
Tony Roma’s: Revolving Views and Rib-Tickling Fare
Parents will undoubtedly appreciate the romantic, panoramic views afforded by the dining room atop the Hotel Dann Carlton’s elegant 19th-floor Tony Roma’s restaurant. Children, on the other hand, will be utterly spellbound as the entire restaurant slowly revolves a full 360 degrees, offering a constantly changing vista of the city below. Ribs and broiled steaks are the undisputed stars of the menu at this internationally renowned chain, but the culinary offerings extend beyond these classics to include Tex-Mex favorites, fresh seafood dishes, crisp salads, and more. Kids’ portions are also available to cater to younger appetites. For a sweet finale, be sure to indulge in the decadent chocolate brownie, served warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Carrera 43a #7-50, El Poblado, Medellín
Mondongo’s: A Deep Dive into Paisa Tradition
Ask any local for their recommendation on where to sample the most authentic and delicious bandeja paisa or other traditional Paisa cuisine, and many will unhesitatingly direct you to Mondongo’s. This immensely popular restaurant, where it’s not uncommon to find locals patiently waiting in line outside, derives its name from the eponymous mondongo soup, a hearty concoction of slow-cooked vegetables, tripe (cow stomach), and served with creamy avocado, sweet fried plantain, and, of course, the indispensable arepas. Arrive with a robust appetite, as the portions are famously generous (fortunately, the prices are not exorbitant). If possible, plan your visit for a Sunday to immerse yourself in the restaurant’s festive atmosphere, when Colombian families flock en masse, bringing abuela (granny) and all, for a convivial family gathering. This is a fantastic opportunity for children to experience authentic Colombian culture firsthand and to develop an appreciation for another culture’s culinary traditions.
Calle 10 #38–38, El Poblado, Medellín
Empanadas El Machetico: A Celebration of Fried Goodness
El Machetico is a well-established Medellín chain that has been satisfying the cravings of hungry locals with its savory snacks for over three decades. Here, you’ll find a selection of beloved Colombian street food staples, including crispy empanadas, flavorful arepas de huevo (fried corn cakes with a whole egg cooked inside), satisfying papas rellenas (fried potato balls filled with savory goodness), and cheesy panzerotti (fried pastry pockets filled with melted mozzarella cheese). If you’ve noticed a recurring theme of fried foods, your observation is entirely accurate. This is the place to go for a guilt-free indulgence, where you can temporarily set aside any concerns about calorie counts. More importantly, you’ll feel like a true local as you savor bite after bite of perfectly crispy, golden-brown empanadas.
Café Zorba: Bohemian Vibes and Wood-Fired Pizza Perfection
If the children are beginning to tire of traditional Paisa fare, with its emphasis on pork, chicken, and beans, venture to Café Zorba for what many consider to be the best pizza in Medellín. Behind its unassuming façade, nestled in leafy El Poblado, this artsy restaurant draws a young, bohemian crowd eager to indulge in its delicious wood-fired, thin-crust pizzas. In addition to pizza, Café Zorba offers an array of fresh fruit juices, refreshing smoothies, and sinfully delicious chocolate brownies served with a generous scoop of ice cream. You can relax on a comfortable leather couch, gather around a rustic picnic bench, or opt to dine alfresco in the charming rear garden patio. Open for dinner only, Café Zorba is an excellent place to connect with Medellín’s coolest residents in a vibrant and eclectic environment. Enjoy the occasional fringe-theater performances, as well as live jazz and salsa music. A word of advice: arrive early, as lines often form outside the door.
Calle 8A #42-33, El Poblado, Medellín
Palogrande: A Carnivore’s Paradise with a Party Atmosphere
Paisas have an innate love for festive atmospheres, which helps to explain why Palogrande, located in Envigado, immediately south of El Poblado, attracts families like bees to honey. A veritable meat lover’s Nirvana, Palogrande specializes in the formidable bandeja paisa, as well as the supersized Parrillada Maradona, a colossal plate of wood-grilled chicken, sausages, kidneys, and blood sausage. A separate fonda (bar) area features live broadcasts of football matches, music videos, and hosts celebrations such as quinceañera (15th-birthday) parties and other special events. Children are treated like royalty here, as the restaurant offers a variety of electronic games, trampolines, inflatable castles, and more, ensuring that they are thoroughly entertained.
Carrera 43A #29 Sur-47 (Avenida El Poblado)
Hard Rock Café: Familiar Flavors and Musical Memorabilia
One of the premier destinations in Medellín for a satisfying burger, the Hard Rock Café offers a welcoming taste of familiar favorites, ranging from classic nachos and barbecue chicken to grilled salmon and a decadent hot fudge brownie. While there’s an undeniably adult ambiance to this iconic chain, it also boasts a fantastic children’s menu, featuring kid-friendly options like fish sticks and pizzas, as well as refreshing root beer floats. Teenagers and the young-at-heart can immerse themselves in music history, admiring memorabilia such as one of Bon Jovi’s guitars, as well as stage outfits worn by Colombia’s two biggest music icons, Juanes and Shakira. Time your visit strategically and you can enjoy live music performances. Speaking of relaxation, the Hard Rock Café features inviting fire pits for alfresco dining, as well as a comfortable lounge area with cozy couches.
Carrera 43A at Calle 3 Sur, El Poblado
Bonuar: Afro-Caribbean Fusion in an Artistic Setting
Medellín’s Museo de Arte Moderno (Modern Art Museum) is a must-see attraction for any visitor to the city. Adding to its appeal is Bonuar, one of the most convivial restaurants in Medellín, especially if you have a penchant for zesty Afro-Caribbean flavors. Styled after a classic French café/bistro, Bonuar (a name derived from beau noir, meaning “beautiful black”) seamlessly blends contemporary chic décor with a Creole-inspired fusion menu. Expect to find dishes such as caramelized octopus, flavorful shrimp gumbo with rice, and satisfying BBQ steak and chips. Alternatively, you can opt for a refreshing salad or a simple egg, cheese, and potato tarta (quiche). Be sure to save room for the delectable chocolate cookies served with fresh strawberries and artisanal vanilla ice cream. Bonuar is an excellent option for a leisurely morning brunch, and it attracts a bohemian crowd in the evenings for live blues and jazz performances.
Carrera 44 #19A–100, Medellín
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