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Magno's Cartagena Recommendations Best Restaurants ...
Best Restaurants in Cartagena

Best Restaurants in Cartagena

“Best” is a bold word... so let’s clarify. This isn’t a ranking or a competition. These are the restaurants that wowed us with inventive dishes, stuck with us thanks to their atmosphere, and left us saying you can’t leave Cartagena without eating here.

Cartagena has no shortage of great spots, but this list focuses on the showstoppers: the meals we’re still talking about, the flavors we didn’t see coming, and the places that hit that rare sweet spot between design, service, and food.

Of course, this list evolves. New restaurants open, menus change, settings shift. But for now, here are our favorite spots that hold our title Best Restaurants in Cartagena.

Magno's Cartagena Recommendations

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Magno Recommends

  • Restaurante 1621

    1. Restaurante 1621


    What we love

    • Thoughtfully crafted multi-course menu
    • Expertly paired food and wine
    • Standout desserts that finish strong
    • Eager to accommodate to food allergies when booking

    What to know

    • Higher price tag
    • Books up quickly


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  • Rabo De Pez

    2. Rabo De Pez


    What we love

    • Standout seafood and beautifully composed dishes
    • Deep attention to detail, from sourcing to plating
    • Romantic, design-forward setting with an open kitchen
    • One of the few spots using fully traceable Colombian cacao

    What to know

    • They push imported water at a premium—maybe opt for something else.
    • Not ideal for kids


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  • Celele

    3. Celele


    What we love

    • Showcases rare Colombian ingredients you won’t find anywhere else
    • Beautiful, seasonal plates with thoughtful stories behind each dish
    • Award-winning spot recognized globally for culinary innovation
    • Creative cocktails crafted with the same care as the food

    What to know

    • Flavors lean adventurous and may not appeal to more traditional palates
    • Prepaid reservations are required and nonrefundable if you’re late
    • Tables book out quickly, so plan well in advance


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  • Tierra

    4. Tierra


    What we love

    • Thoughtfully crafted Colombian take on Nikkei cuisine
    • Romantic setting with warm, stylish design
    • Great cocktail list that matches the creativity of the food
    • Air-conditioned indoor seating plus a cozy rooftop for cooler nights
    • Attentive, friendly service that completes the experience

    What to know

    • Rooftop access involves stairs and isn’t ideal for everyone
    • Smaller space, so better suited for couples or small groups


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  • Harry's Sasson

    5. Harry's Sasson


    What we love

    • Elevated flavors with a modern Colombian twist
    • Excellent seafood and thoughtful use of local ingredients
    • Romantic, upscale setting in a beautiful colonial courtyard
    • Great option for larger groups

    What to know

    • No A/C — just fans, so it can get warm
    • Service and consistency can dip during peak tourist season
    • On the pricier side


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  • Mar y Zielo

    6. Mar y Zielo


    What we love

    • Beautiful romantic setting in a restored colonial building
    • Fresh, creative Colombian cocina de autor with standout seafood
    • Led by a talented woman chef—a detail we’re proud to celebrate
    • Rooftop terrace with spectacular old-city views, especially at night
    • Exceptionally attentive service that makes for a memorable experience

    What to know

    • Limited space, so advance reservations are essential
    • Rooftop can get hot during warmer months despite fans


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  • Erre de Ramón Freixa

    7. Erre de Ramón Freixa


    What we love

    • Incredible panoramic views of Cartagena and the sea
    • Refined, modern space ideal for special occasions
    • Thoughtful tasting menus and top-tier wine list
    • A/C indoor dining plus a beautiful outdoor terrace

    What to know

    • Slightly outside the historic center (near La Boquilla, ~10 min drive north)
    • Higher price point, especially with wine pairings
    • Reservations recommended for prime times (especially sunsets)


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