5 Best Restaurants to Eat in Colombia's Coffee Region

If you're planning a trip to the Eje Cafetero region of Colombia, prepare for an unforgettable culinary experience. This vibrant area is not just famous for its exquisite coffee but also boasts a rich array of traditional dishes that will delight your taste buds. Get ready to indulge in a feast of flavors as we unveil our top picks for restaurants that will make your visit truly memorable!

From charming local eateries to stunning views and mouthwatering meals, the Eje Cafetero has something for everyone. So, loosen your belt and dig in!

1. Where to Find Juan B

After an exhausting hike through the stunning Valle del Cocora, we stumbled upon this gem of a restaurant. It could have been the hunger that made every dish taste divine, or perhaps it was the culinary magic at play here!

The restaurant's specialty is none other than trout, prepared in various ways including fried, smoked, or in a garlic sauce. We opted for the garlic trout with shrimp, and let me tell you, it was a dish to remember! The garlic sauce was rich and creamy, elevating the fish to new heights. We also enjoyed a tender churrasco that simply melted in our mouths.

Each meal comes with a complimentary trout cream that is simply delightful. Our total bill for a hearty meal for two was around 82,000 COP.

2. Discovering Choripaco

We found Choripaco serendipitously next to our Airbnb in Santa Rosa de Cabal, thanks to our friendly host's recommendation. This place is famous for its local specialty: chorizos.

While my partner, Rober, couldn't get enough of the chorizos (which are more like longaniza), I chose a delectable lomo dish that did not disappoint. The flavors were rich and satisfying, perfect for a quick meal after a long day of exploring.

Our total for this delightful meal came in at less than 30,000 COP, making it a budget-friendly option!

3. Enjoying San Alberto's Coffee Paradise

More than just a dining spot, San Alberto is a must-visit for those interested in tasting some of the best coffee in Colombia. The views here are simply breathtaking, overlooking Buenavista and lush coffee fields.

While many opt for a traditional black coffee brewed with classic methods, we decided to indulge in a fun Oreo frappuccino, which was surprisingly delicious and refreshing. The ambiance and the flavors combined make this place a true highlight of our trip.

4. A Stop at El Roble

Also recommended by our Airbnb host, El Roble is a roadside restaurant that may not seem fancy but is packed with local flavor and charm. This place is usually bustling with truckers and locals, which is always a good sign of quality food at reasonable prices.

Here, you can enjoy chorizos cooked to perfection and share hearty bandejas that are truly generous. I indulged in a platter featuring grilled meat, rice, avocado, potatoes, yuca, and beans. It was so abundant I couldn't finish it without Rober's help. He enjoyed the sudados chorizos and left completely satisfied.

Don't skip the local arepas; they may be small, but they pack a flavorful punch! Our total bill, including drinks, was around 33,500 COP.

5. Balcón del Quindio: A Culinary Surprise

We stumbled upon Balcón del Quindio during a rainstorm while heading to Salento, and what a lucky break it was! The portions here are gigantic. We ordered barbecue ribs and a traditional sanchocho, a hearty soup that was so abundant it could easily serve a small family!

The sanchocho was filled with meat, sweet potatoes, yuca, and potatoes, and we simply couldn't finish it. Everything was delicious, and the prices were incredibly reasonable; we paid about 80,000 COP for our feast.

Extra: Visit a Coffee Farm

One of the most enriching experiences you can have in the Eje Cafetero is visiting a coffee farm. Here, you can learn everything about coffee production and its significance in Colombian culture. We visited the renowned Finca El Ocaso, and it was an eye-opening experience that deepened our appreciation for this beloved beverage.

If you're interested, consider taking a tour of Finca Ocaso to explore the intricacies of coffee cultivation.

Mapping the Culinary Delights of the Eje Cafetero

To make your culinary adventure even easier, we’ve prepared a map highlighting the locations of the recommended restaurants throughout the Eje Cafetero. This way, you won’t miss out on any of these delicious spots!

We hope these gastronomic suggestions enhance your journey and help you savor the incredible flavors this amazing region of Colombia has to offer. If you know of more restaurants worth visiting in the Eje Cafetero, feel free to share your recommendations in the comments!

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