Hey, meat lovers! Alejandra here, your Cartagenera guide to the juiciest, most flavorful BBQ experiences in this beautiful city. Now, you might think Cartagena is all about fresh seafood and delicious arepas, but let me tell you something: we know how to grill a mean steak too! Things like sophisticated Argentine parrillas but also those hidden spots where the authentic Colombian charcoal flavor fills every bite, this city has it all.

Imagine the sizzling sound of a juicy cut on the grill, the aroma filling the air, and that first bite that makes you close your eyes in pure delight. Whether you’re a fan of ribs, churrasco, or a great steak, Cartagena offers something truly special, trust me this blog is not long enough for me to give you ALL my recommendations, I had to pick the best of the best BBQ/Meat restaurants in Cartagena.

Before I start with this, please make sure you don’t fall on tourist traps, there may be some restaurants offering you food at crazy prices, make sure you do your research before visiting a random one, here I tell you some of my favs which may be on the medium/high price side, but all of them have quality ingredients and atmosphere. Don’t worry I also left an affordable option for those trying to save some cents.

So, loosen your belt, get your appetite ready, and join me on a flavorful adventure filled with smoke, spice, and plenty of meat.

Best Overall BBQ & most luxurious: Andres Carne de Res

• Restaurant: Andres Carne de Res
• Location: Carrera 11, Cl. de la Serrezuela #39 – 21.
• Unique Features: This place is a carnivore’s dream! They’ve got that authentic Argentine parrilla vibe, with an open kitchen where you can see those juicy cuts sizzling on the grill. The atmosphere is lively and fun but also elegant, perfect for a night out with friends or family.
• Price Range: Pricey but I believe that the experience makes it well worth it.
• Must-Try Dishes:  The specialty of the house, lomo al trapo or lomo al vino, riquisimo.
• Price Range: $$$, more on the expensive side but is a really good quality food resto, no money will be wasted.
• Why It’s the Best:  This restaurant is one of those spots in Cartagena that attracts you not only with its high-quality food but also with its unique atmosphere. The first thing that stands out is its outdoor space, perfect for enjoying the Caribbean weather while indulging in dishes that not only taste amazing but also have an impeccable presentation, almost worthy of a photograph. Plus, they feature live music, which adds a special touch to the experience, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. It’s the perfect place for those looking to enjoy a sophisticated vibe without losing the relaxed and lively essence that defines our city. The meat is delicious and you’ll love it 100%. Definitely a spot that offers the best of both worlds: quality and fun.

 Best Rooftop : Henrys – Rooftop San Felipe

• Restaurant Name: Henrys – Rooftop San Felipe
• Location: Cl. 30 #17 – 140, Pie Del Cerro, Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
• View/Atmosphere: The perfect view of Castillo San Felipe will leave you in awe of the magnificence of this monument, which can be seen perfectly from this restaurant. You’ll also enjoy a beautiful view of the city, with towering buildings illuminated by the moonlight, colorful sunsets, and more.
• Price Range:  Moderate price, they don’t have crazy expensive prices but also not the cheapest.
• Why It’s Special:  The views are the main reason why this place feels so special. Rooftops usually offer great city views, but it’s rare to find one with such an impressive view like the one at Henry’s. Plus, the vibe is amazing, making it the perfect spot to go with friends and enjoy some incredibly delicious food.

Best Wine Selection : Grill House – La Estacion 

• Restaurant Name: Grill House – La Estacion
• Wine List Highlights: Las Moras Black Label Malbec, Castillo de Molina – Cabernet Sauvignon, Alma Mora Malbec, Cousiño-Macul Don Luis.
• Best Dishes to Pair with Wine:  Easy, the steak.
• Why It Stands Out: This restaurant is known for its high-quality food and pleasant outdoor ambiance. They feature live music, and their dishes are presented with a luxurious touch. You’ll feel like you’re dining in a sophisticated restaurant, yet with a lively vibe. It’s the perfect combination of good food and fun. I would put this one also on the good quality food category.

Most Economical: Leños & Barril

• Restaurant: Leños & Barril
• Location: Cra. 44 #29-85, Amberes, Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
• Price Range: 13.000/38.000
• Must-Try Dishes: Please try the roasts
• Why It’s the Best: They have a great variety in their menu, roasts, hot dogs, hamburgers. You can enjoy a good size plate at an incredible price. The meat is quality and the dishes will not disappoint.

Best for Events/Shows: Bourbon St

• Restaurant Name: Bourbon St
• Location: 30, Calle 35 #3, Cartagena De Indias (Distrito Turístico Y Cultural), Bolívar, Colombia
• Price Range: Not too expensive for the experience, 40.000/50.000 COP
• Must-Try Dishes:  Simple, their burgers
• Why It’s the best for events or shows: Looks like New Orleans Carnival, good music, lots of colors and fun. They have different kind of “happy hour” promotions for you to make the most throughout the whole evening, you can go and have a blast so that’s why it is my top choice for shows.

Best Food Quality: Restaurante D’Res

• Restaurant Name: Restaurante D’Res
• Location: Cra. 17 #24-90, Manga, Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
• Price Range: Not gonna lie, it is expensive.
• Must-Try Dishes: La entraña with baked potato, el chicharron, la punta de anca, uff..
• Why It’s the Best quality food: They use high-quality meat, seasoned to perfection, and the preparation of the dishes is excellent. Everything tastes fresh, and the flavor is simply outstanding.

Conclusion

You would be surprised how many beautiful restaurants with quality food there are in Cartagena, that’s why in La Carta we focus on giving you as much information as possible, we hope you now know the best BBQ/Meat restaurants in Cartagena.

I hope you appreciate all my favorite bbq spots in cartagena, all with excellent quality and ambiance, you know that in cartagena everything is a bailadera, so in most of the restaurants you will find live music or a lively atmosphere like us costeños.

There is nothing better than going for a barbecue after a day at the beach, so you know now, you have options to go with your family, ir a parchear un rato, have a romantic dinner or just eat that craving you had for a fresh meat.

The best of all is that wherever you go, you will have a great time, because we costeño people are known for our cool attitude.

So there you have it, my fellow carnivores! Cartagena has a BBQ experience for every taste and budget. Whether you’re craving a juicy steak, some fall-off-the-bone ribs, or a taste of authentic Colombian grilling, this guide has got you covered. Now go out there and enjoy the best BBQ that La Heroica has to offer! ¡Chao, pues!