The Best Places to Eat in Bogota & Local Delicacies

When I asked Colombians about Bogota, the answers were never quite heartening; everyone complained about the chaos, the traffic, and the crowds. True, Bogota has the vulnerabilities of any major capital, but one shouldn’t be so relentless. Behind the city’s gray clouds lie hidden gems that will nourish both your soul and your appetite. Here are my personal notes on the culinary spots that defy Bogota’s ‘tough’ reputation…

How about escaping Bogota’s famous crowds and looking down at the city from an altitude of 3,152 meters? Mount Monserrate is much more than just a viewing platform; it’s a world of its own where you can truly feel the spirit of the city through its lush walking paths, authentic artisan markets, historic church, and charming cafes.

There are three ways to reach this unique vista: walking for those who trust their stamina or taking the funicular or cable car for those who want to save their energy. I chose the funicular, allowing me to save my strength for exploring the summit.

There are several venues at the top of Mount Monserrate, but I decided on Casa Santa Clara. My goal was to enjoy a coffee and a light snack while soaking in the scenery. It turned out to be the perfect choice; sipping my coffee against the backdrop of the magnificent Bogota skyline was an unforgettable experience.

If you’re planning a visit, be sure to check out these official websites:

* www.monserrate.co : Here, you can learn about the history of the mountain and purchase your transportation tickets in advance.
* www.restaurantesmonserrate.com : Use this site to explore the dining options at the summit and make restaurant reservations.

If you are the type of traveler who loves to “sip” through the local culture by trying native brews in every new city, you must point your compass toward BBC (Bogota Beer Company). As the name suggests, this brand is deeply rooted in the city, carrying a boutique character that has made it one of Bogota’s most popular social hubs.

BBC is a staple of the city’s nightlife and social scene, with various pubs scattered across different neighborhoods. Whether you are looking for a lively “after-office” spot or a cozy corner to rest your feet after a long day, you’ll likely find a BBC nearby.

To explore their different craft beer varieties and find the location closest to you, take a look at bbccerveceria.com.

A Quick Tip: Their website currently only serves in Spanish; however, the menu visuals and the descriptive names of the beers will provide all the guidance you need to make the perfect choice.

As you wander through the streets of Bogota, you will encounter a culinary landmark on almost every corner: Crepes & Waffles. As the name suggests, it is a true haven for crepe and waffle lovers.

I visited their branch in Zona T, the heart of Bogota. The menu they bring to your table is so extensive that you’ll find yourself lost in its pages, unsure of what to order. From sweet to savory, they offer legendary options to suit every palate.

What truly makes this restaurant special is that from the kitchen to the service (excluding security), the entire staff consists of women. However, this is more than just a hiring preference; it is a powerful social stance. Crepes & Waffles specifically employs women who are widowed, divorced, or the sole providers for their households (those with no other financial support). For this vision alone, they deserve a standing ovation.

Website: https://www.crepesywaffles.com/

If you find yourself craving something sweet in Bogota, there is no better place to treat yourself than Myriam Camhi. This isn’t just a bakery; it is a true paradise for chocolate and cake lovers. With 11 locations currently in operation, the fame of this legendary brand has traveled far beyond the borders of Colombia.

I visited their branch within walking distance of Zona T. As soon as you step inside, you are greeted by a spacious and cozy decor that practically says, “come in and stay a while.” However, the real showstopper is the massive cake display that meets your eyes the moment you enter. It is nearly impossible to make it to your table without being hypnotized by that display case.

Once seated, you might find yourself lost in the sheer variety of the menu. I opted for the “Napoleón de Arequipe,” and I knew I had made the right choice from the very first bite. Even before tasting it, the presentation and appearance of this dessert are enough to enchant you. This elegant pairing of flaky pastry with Colombia’s famous milk caramel (arequipe) will undoubtedly be one of the most delicious memories of your Bogota trip.

For more information and to browse their full menu, you can visit their website: www.myriamcamhi.com

Next up is one of the most authentic flavors of any Bogota trip: Changua. In Colombia’s high-altitude and chilly capital, this is the first thing you’ll encounter if you’re looking for something to warm you up in the morning.

While Colombian cuisine usually brings to mind heavy, meat-centric dishes, the most local way to start the day in Bogota and its surroundings is with a hot bowl of Changua. Although it is a breakfast classic, it’s not uncommon to see someone enjoying this milky soup at any time of the day.

Changua has a simple yet surprisingly unique list of ingredients. Prepared with a base of milk and water, this soup includes:

• Eggs: Poached directly in the simmering milk.
• Bread (Calado): A special type of toasted, crunchy bread that softens beautifully inside the soup.
• Scallions and Cilantro: The essential fresh touches that complete the dish.

To be honest, I wouldn’t say it has a “very special” taste that appeals to everyone; the combination of milk and eggs might feel a bit unusual at first. However, if you want a truly local experience during your Bogota trip, you should set aside any prejudices and give this soup a chance. Enjoying this dish on those chilly city mornings, especially in the eateries along the historic streets of La Candelaria, is the perfect way to feel the true spirit of Bogota.

Andrés Carne de Res is a must-visit spot during your trip to Bogota. It is a unique venue where world-class dining meets a vibrant, high-energy nightlife. Specifically, their location in Zona T holds a significant place in Bogota’s social scene. For a more detailed look at this one-of-a-kind venue, you can check out my post titled “Why You Can’t Miss Andrés Carne de Res in Bogota”.