Interesting food scene in Eje Cafetero/Coffee Zone
Interesting food scene in Eje Cafetero/Coffee Zone
When people think of Colombia, cuisine is not typically one of the first things that springs to mind. Eje Cafetero is gaining fame for its traditional Colombian cuisine, as the region’s culinary secrets spread.
New, exciting restaurants are popping up almost daily and there is something to suit every taste. Enjoy street food, traditional Colombian dishes, high-end restaurants, plus countless coffee shops and trendy bars.
Like in many cities, there a few specific clusters where most of the best spots can be found. Explore Pereira’s trendy Curcunvalar streets, where you’ll find an endless array of inviting restaurants. Similarly, Armenia and Manizales offer great restaurant options, though on a smaller scale. Visit street food stalls and local markets for a vibrant atmosphere and some of the tastiest food in Eje Cafetero.
We work with and recommend booking flights with www.kiwi.com
Pereira
La Ruana
La Ruana is a quintessential Colombian eatery offering a genuine taste of the region’s cuisine. Located in the heart of Pereira, this spot has an inviting street presence and a traditional Colombian ambiance with authentic furnishings and décor. The covered seating area offers an open-air feel, creating a relaxed atmosphere perfect for savoring the flavors of Eje Cafetero.
The menu at La Ruana is a celebration of fresh local ingredients and time-honored recipes. The extensive menu features regional specialties like bandeja paisa, sancocho, and a variety of arepas with delicious fillings. The portions are generous, so be sure to have a healthy appetite upon arrival. There is a full-service bar with a brilliant selection of the freshest fruit juices.
The staff are very willing to advise and describe all that they have that day. La Ruana offers excellent value for money, where you can enjoy a hearty, delicious traditional Colombian meal without stressing over the budget. This popular spot attracts both locals and visitors, so it can get quite busy at times. However, few places in town offer a better experience of traditional Colombian cuisine.
Leños y Parrilla
Leños y Parrilla, located in the fashionable La Rebecca area of Pereira, is well worth a visit for those seeking authentic Colombian cuisine. Widely considered one of the best places in town to eat, this convivial Argentinian-style steakhouse draws locals and visitors alike. The warm, rustic décor and traditional wooden furnishings create an inviting ambiance that enhances the dining experience. With a pleasant outdoor terrace, with an upbeat vibe, this is a place where you do not mind lingering.
An extensive repertoire of carefully seasoned cuts of Argentinian and Colombian grilled meats are served unadulterated on a sizzling iron plate with a garnish of plantain and potatoes, a side of arepas and a small salad. Specializing in traditional Colombian barbecue, Leños y Parrilla offers a wide variety of grilled meats all cooked over an open flame. The menu also offers classic sides like arepas, yuca, and fresh salads, creating an excellent experience that highlights regional flavors.
Leños y Parrilla is a cost-effective dining option without compromising on quality, although it is slightly at the higher end of affordability. The portions are very generous offering excellent value for the quality of food and service provided. This is a fantastic option for enjoying traditional Colombian flavors in a welcoming setting.
Begin organizing your dream Colombian getaway right away by using our Plan My Trip page!
Cardinal Comida Peruana de Autor
A gourmet Peruvian restaurant on the rooftop of Zi One Luxury Hotel in downtown Pereira, serving fresh, flavorful traditional and creative dishes. The excellent and friendly service enhances the overall dining experience. Now in its new location with city views, it’s even more enticing, featuring live music in the evenings.
There has been high praise for the quality of the dishes, with some even comparing them to other renowned restaurants in Colombia. The Chaufa Shrimp dish is particularly recommended for its authentic Peruvian flavors. This is an establishment that excels in value and quality, with wonderful chefs and outstanding service.
Armenia
Don Frijoles
This restaurant offers its visitors traditional Colombian cuisine, set in the heart of the Eje Cafetero. Great coffee is waiting for you at Don Frijoles.
They produce really good bandeja paisa, mondongo and laing among other traditional fare.
The competent staff have a positive and enthusiastic air that makes this a wonderful location for casual dining, especially on the outdoor patio. With very fair and reasonable prices, this is a tremendous option for a satisfying and enjoyable breakfast or lunch (closed in the evening).
Balcon del Quindio
Offering a delightful dining experience with delicious cuisine, aided with breathtaking scenic vistas of the Eje Cafetero. Although slightly outside of Armenia on the highway to Pereira, it is worth the effort. The menu features high-quality traditional paisa dishes and international fare, guaranteed to satisfy any palate.
There is also a well-stocked bar for cocktails and fabulous fresh juices. Prices fall within the average range, with the overall experience making it well worth the while.
Start creating your dream Colombian adventure by using our Plan My Trip page now!
Manizales
La Luna De Valencia
Located in Manizales’ Palermo barrio, La Luna De Valencia is a Spanish-style restaurant offering excellent facilities and quality cuisine.
There is indoor and outdoor seating, with a total capacity of about 100 guests. Indoors have cozy spaces with plenty of natural light. Out on the patio is where the BBQ grill is situated, with a delicious aroma wafting through the air. It can get a little chilly at night, so if you do want to sit outside be sure to bring a light jacket. There is also an exclusive glassed-in terrace with a capacity of 35 people.
This Spanish-influenced restaurant specializes in paellas, delicious tapas, and notably, exceptional hamburgers. They are big, juicy, tasty and extremely competitively priced. Their shrimp ceviche is also worth mentioning as it has magnificent flavor. Vegetarian options are very popular as well, in particular the amazingly fresh salads.
This Mediterranean restaurant is a culinary gem in Manizales. It offers delicious dishes with fresh ingredients, in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The service is excellent, with attentive staff, making it the perfect spot for a memorable meal at a great price.
Spago Bistronomia Italiana
Wonderful Italian restaurant that offers delicious pasta, salads, steaks and pizza, with a wine list to match. The service is excellent and the dishes are amazing value. The location is convenient and the restaurant has a very authentic atmosphere if you are looking for good Italian food.
Some of the more popular dishes include salmon pasta, monkfish and pizza. The quality and flavor of the dishes are notable. The Pomodoro sauce is spectacular, while the pasta is just right and should you choose the delicious pizza you will not be disappointed. For desserts try the divine chocolate lava cake. An above-average wine list compliments the wonderfully fresh food.
The cozy atmosphere of Spago Bistronomia Italiana makes guests feel relaxed and ready for a great time. The well-trained staff provides professional, attentive service, offering great value at affordable prices for an exceptional experience.
Restaurant Mayday
On the side of the hills on the outskirts of Manizales, Restaurant Mayday offers a unique dining experience inside an airplane converted for use as a restaurant. The views are spectacular and there is the option to either dine inside the airplane or on the terrace below.
Mayday serves up a good selection of dishes at very reasonable prices, making it an accessible and affordable dining spot for all. The interior design is sleek and modern, as you might expect, with screens playing contemporary music videos while adding to the overall ambiance. The view from the terrace is unforgettable, making it a great place to enjoy a cocktail or glass of chilled wine while taking in the scenery.
The menu at Restaurant Mayday features a full assortment of interesting and delicious dishes, including the delicious Punta Trasera (steak) and the tasty Paisa Picada (assorted meats and chorizos), wonderful for sharing. The bar offers a refreshing selection of cocktails, including a tantalizing Limonada de Vino con Frutas (lemonade with wine and fruit), the indulgent Coctel de Baileys and many more. For non-alcoholic options, the establishment serves up a secret mock cocktail and a fine selection of soft drinks and amazingly fresh juices.
Restaurant Mayday is an establishment well worth a visit while in Manizales, not only for its unique setting and stunning views but also for very affordable time out.
Like to create or customize a fantastico package tour of Colombia? Use our Plan My Trip page to start planning your dream Colombian vacation now!