Cartagena is not only famous for its history and beaches, but also for its incredible gastronomic offering. The walled city and Bocagrande offer a wide variety of restaurants, but those looking for a different experience should venture to the nearby islands. In these tropical paradises, it is possible to enjoy a unique combination of stunning landscapes, sea breezes and exquisite flavors . The gastronomy on the islands of Cartagena reflects the richness of the Caribbean, with fresh ingredients, seafood fresh from the sea and dishes prepared with a special touch that highlights the essence of the region. There are options for all tastes and budgets , from exclusive fine dining restaurants to cozy spaces with traditional and affordable food.
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1. Exclusive and luxury restaurants
If you are looking for a sophisticated dining experience with spectacular views and dishes prepared by renowned chefs, these options are for you:
Blue Apple Beach (Tierra Bomba Island)
This exclusive restaurant and beach club combines a relaxed atmosphere with a first-class gastronomic offering. Its menu is based on international cuisine with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood and artisanal cocktails. Located on Tierra Bomba Island, it can be reached by private boat from the Cartagena pier in approximately 20 minutes. Prices for dishes start at $80,000 COP, while cocktails cost an average of $40,000 COP. It is advisable to make reservations in advance through their website, especially on weekends and high season.
Amare Beach Club (Barú Island)
Located on the paradisiacal Barú Island, this restaurant offers a signature gastronomic experience with local ingredients and an innovative menu that highlights the flavors of the Caribbean. You can get there by boat from the Muelle de la Bodeguita or by private vehicle to Barú. Dishes cost approximately $90,000 COP and drinks from $35,000 COP. It is recommended to book at least one day in advance to guarantee availability.
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2. Affordable and traditional options
For those looking for an authentic experience without breaking the bank, these restaurants offer delicious food at affordable prices:
Bomba Beach (Tierra Bomba Island)
This restaurant is known for its typical dishes such as fried fish, coconut rice and patacones, served in a casual setting with a view of the sea. Located on Tierra Bomba Island, it can be reached by boat from Bocagrande in a 15-minute ride. Prices for dishes start at $35,000 COP and drinks from $10,000 COP. Although it is not always necessary to make a reservation, it is recommended to do so during high season to ensure availability.
Restaurant Where Alejandro (Rosario Islands)
With an unmistakable Cartagena flavor, this restaurant is an excellent option to try fresh seafood and traditional dishes. It is located on the Rosario Islands and is only accessible by boat tour or private vessel. Dishes cost from $40,000 COP and drinks from $15,000 COP. It is recommended to call in advance to confirm availability and arrange transportation.
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3. Restaurants in Beach Clubs
If you like the idea of enjoying good food while relaxing at a beach club, these options are ideal:
Casa Blanca Beach (Barú Island)
This restaurant combines an exclusive atmosphere with a gastronomic offering based on Caribbean dishes with gourmet touches. You can get there by boat from Cartagena or by car to Barú. Prices for dishes start at $70,000 COP and drinks from $30,000 COP. Reservations are recommended through their website or social media.
Isla Bela (Rosario Islands)
Located in the Rosario Islands, this restaurant specializes in healthy cuisine with organic ingredients and a sustainable approach. Access is via a boat tour from Cartagena. Dishes cost from approximately $60,000 COP and drinks from $25,000 COP. It is recommended to book in advance to ensure availability.
Bora Bora Beach Club (Rosario Islands)
This exclusive beach club is an ideal choice for those looking for a relaxed atmosphere with excellent cuisine. It offers a varied menu specializing in seafood and tropical cocktails. It is accessible by boat from Cartagena, a trip that takes approximately 45 minutes. Dishes cost from $80,000 COP and drinks from $35,000 COP. It is recommended to book in advance.
Palmarito Beach (Baru Island)
Located in Barú, this beach club offers a more relaxed atmosphere with a menu based on fresh, local products. It can be reached by car or boat from Cartagena. Dishes start at $50,000 COP and drinks start at $20,000 COP. Reservations are recommended to ensure availability.
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4. Healthy and sustainable options
If you prefer conscious and sustainable eating, these restaurants offer healthy and organic menus:
Makani Beach Club (Barú Island)
With a focus on fresh, local ingredients, this restaurant offers vegetarian and vegan options in a relaxed, natural atmosphere. It can be reached by car from Barú or by boat from Cartagena. Dishes start at $50,000 COP and drinks start at $20,000 COP. Advance reservations are recommended.
EcoMangle (Rosario Islands)
A sustainable restaurant that focuses on organic cuisine and vegan options. Located on the Rosario Islands, it is accessible via boat tour. Dishes start at $45,000 COP and drinks start at $18,000 COP. Advance reservations recommended.
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5. Family-friendly restaurants
If you are traveling with children and are looking for a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere, these restaurants are excellent options:
Sun and Papaya Beach Club (Barú Island)
This restaurant offers a varied menu with options for children and adults, in a friendly environment with recreational areas. You can get to Barú by car or by boat from Cartagena. Prices for dishes start at $45,000 COP and drinks from $15,000 COP. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends and high season.
Nena Beach (Baru Island)
With a cozy atmosphere and designed for families, this restaurant offers a varied menu with typical Caribbean dishes. It is accessible by car or boat from Cartagena. Prices for dishes start at $50,000 COP and drinks from $20,000 COP. Reservations are recommended in advance.
Aura Beach (Barú Island)
This family-run restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere and a varied menu with options for all tastes. It can be reached by car or boat from Cartagena. Prices for dishes start at $55,000 COP and drinks from $22,000 COP. Reservations recommended during high season.
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