As you explore Colombia’s breathtaking coastlines and vibrant culture, don’t miss the opportunity to dive into its rich culinary traditions. Colombian cuisine offers a wide variety of flavors that reflect the country’s diverse culture and regions. Whether you’re relaxing after a day of adventure or exploring local markets, here are some of the top traditional Colombian dishes you should try:

1. Bandeja Paisa

A true feast for the senses, Bandeja Paisa is an iconic dish from the Paisa region, often considered Colombia’s a hearty platter featuring grilled steak or pork, chorizo sausage, rice, beans, a fried egg, ripe plantains, avocado, and arepa (cornmeal cake). This dish is perfect for meat lovers and will fill you up after a day of exploration.

2. Ajiaco

If you’re craving something comforting, Ajiaco is a must-try. This traditional Colombian soup is made with chicken, three types of potatoes, corn, and an array of local herbs and spices. It’s often served with rice, avocado, capers, and cream, offering a perfect balance of rich, savory flavors. Ajiaco is especially popular in Bogotá and other highland regions.

3. Arepa

Versatile and satisfying, arepas are thick, round corn cakes that are a staple in Colombian cuisine. Whether grilled, baked, or fried, they can be enjoyed plain or filled with cheese, eggs, meat, or avocado. Arepas make a great meal or snack at any time of day and are a favorite comfort food.

4. Empanadas

For a quick and delicious snack, look no further than Colombian empanadas. These crispy turnovers are typically filled with a savory mix of meat, potatoes, and spices, then deep-fried to golden perfection. Pair them with aji sauce (a spicy Colombian condiment) for an extra kick.

5. Sancocho

A hearty, filling stew, Sancocho combines various meats—chicken, beef, pork, or fish—along with vegetables like plantains, yuca (cassava), potatoes, and corn. Slowly simmered to develop rich flavors, this dish is often served with rice, avocado, and aji sauce on the side. It’s the perfect meal after a day of exploration.

6. Lechona

If you’re lucky enough to be in Colombia during a special celebration, don’t miss out on lechona. This festive dish features a whole roasted pig stuffed with rice, peas, onions, and spices, resulting in a flavorful and tender meat with crispy skin. It’s a true Colombian delicacy enjoyed during major holidays and family gatherings.

7. Bandeja de Pescado

If you’re near the coast, be sure to try Bandeja de Pescado, a dish that showcases the country’s bountiful seafood. It features grilled or fried fish, served alongside coconut rice, patacones (fried green plantains), and a tangy sauce made with lime, onions, and peppers. It’s a delicious way to savor Colombia’s coastal flavors.

8. Patacones

A beloved side dish in Colombia, patacones are crispy fried plantains that are sliced, flattened, and fried twice for extra crunch. These savory snacks are often served with salt and are perfect for dipping in sauces or enjoying on their own. Patacones pair wonderfully with a variety of Colombian dishes.

9. Buñuelos

These deep-fried dough balls are a favorite treat, especially during the holiday season. Made from cornmeal, cheese, eggs, and a hint of sweetness, bunuelos have a crispy exterior and a soft, cheesy interior. Served warm with a cup of hot chocolate, they’re the perfect sweet bite after a busy day.

10. Tamal

A traditional Colombian dish, tamales are made by wrapping a mixture of seasoned meats, vegetables, and cornmeal dough (or rice) in banana leaves and steaming them until fully cooked. Whether enjoyed as breakfast, lunch, or a snack, tamales are a staple in Colombian cuisine, especially during the holidays and special occasions.

11. Cayeye

Originating from the coastal region of Magdalena, cayeye is a dish made from mashed green bananas (guineos). The bananas are boiled, then mashed with butter, salt, and sometimes cream or milk for a smooth, creamy texture. Often served with fried eggs, crispy pork belly (chicharrón), or avocado, cayeye makes a hearty breakfast or side dish.

12. Pan de Bono

This popular Colombian bread is made with corn flour, cheese, eggs, and a touch of sugar and salt. The dough is shaped into small balls and baked to perfection, resulting in a golden-brown exterior and a soft, cheesy interior. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, pan de bono pairs wonderfully with coffee or hot chocolate.

Whether you’re enjoying a post-dive meal or discovering the best local food after a day of adventure in Tayrona National Park, these dishes offer a taste of Colombia’s vibrant culture and culinary heritage. Be sure to sample as many as you can during your visit—you’ll find the flavors as unforgettable as the experience itself.