Santa Marta is located on the Caribbean Sea, at the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta in Colombia. It is the capital of the Magdalena department and one of the oldest cities in Colombia. You can spend a nice day in the city, but you mainly use San Marta as a starting point for a trip to the Tayrona National Park, the mountain village of Minca or the trek to the lost city – La Ciudad Perdida. And there is nothing that will make you feel happier than a wonderful restaurant, with a good glass of wine, after a long or multi-day trip. This is a list with my tips for the best restaurants and cafes in Santa Marta, Colombia.
Ikaro Cafe is my favorite lunch, hangout and working spot. The menu offers vegetarian and vegan options and huge fruit juices. All ingredients are locally produced and therefore super healthy and fresh. You can sit at the tables inside, outside or find one of the inside beds, where you can sit, eat, hang and relax.
One of the best restaurants in Santa Marta Colombia is, in my opinion, Guasimo. It is always a great experience to have dinner here. This restaurant is not only decorated in a stylish way, with beautiful photos and paintings on the walls, but also offers a delicious mix of Caribbean and Colombian dishes. It is even bettter that the chefs dare to play with traditional flavors in a creative way. Guasimo is known for its fresh seafood, such as ceviche and langoustines, which come straight from the region. You should definitely not miss this place if you love seafood.
There are many restaurants and terraces on the Parque de los Novios in Santa Marta, but one outstanding place is called Ouzo. Not only will you try here delicious Mediterranean dishes, also the location is great for observing people, especially in the evening.
Whether you are looking for a cup of coffee, breakfast, fresh sandwich or light meal. A place in Santa Marta where you can spend the whole day is Agua del Rio. The cafe is stylishly decorated with natural materials and there are beautiful large plants all around you. And if you like taking photos of your food, have your camera ready.
Another place in the center of Santa Marta with a lovely vibe and delicious dishes is called Casa Magdalena, the brother of Agua de Rio. Think of a Thai ceviche, risotto with feta cheese, fresh raviolis and pappardelles and truffle croquettes. This restaurant opens in the afternoon for lunch and has live music every evening.
Lulo Café Bar is one of the nicest places in Santa Marta for fresh fruit juices and a tasty lunch. It is located on Calle 3, so if you manage to get a spot on the terrace, you can observe the many people walking by.
If you are looking for a literally “cool” spot during the day, there is no better place than this Colombian coffee chain. On a lovely outdoor terrace, next to the plaza, completely shaded by the large trees, you can enjoy a cup of Colombian coffee or cup of tea.
Many restaurants and bars in Santa Marta, can be found on Calle 3, connecting Parque de los Novios with the Central Plaza. Most places in this street don’t have outstanding food but it is the locaion, the colors and atmosphere making you want to visit. Among others, you will find a delicious Italian ice cream shop and some cool coffee shops and bars, with street-art.
Are you planning to visit Taganga beach, near Santa Marta Colombia? One of the nicest restaurants there is Pachamana. Here you can enjoy delicious fresh fish, right on the beach with your feet in the sand.
Santa Marta is the perfect starting point for a trip to the Tayrona National Park, Minca, the surrounding beaches and the Lost City trek. But what to do in Santa Marta city in Colombia? In my Santa Marta Colombia travel guide I’m sharing my tips for the best things to do, hotels and restaurants in the city and surroundings.
Looking for more tips and things to do in Santa marta Colombia? This is an overview with tours.
Looking for nice boutique hotels in Santa Marta? These are my tips for places to stay Santa Marta Colombia.
Like any other country, Colombia has so many beautiful hotels. For both work and personal trips, I visited Colombia dozens of times and stayed in the most beautiful places. Curious? In the next guide I will tell you more about my favorite places to stay in Colombia: The best boutique hotels and unique places to stay sorted by city and region in Colombia.
Did you enjoy reading this article about the best restaurants in Santa Marta and do you want to read more about Colombia? Check out the next articles with lots of inspiration and tips.
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