¡Ay, mi gente! Alejandra here, bringing you the inside scoop on the best seafood in Cartagena. Now, I know you might be thinking, “Seafood in Cartagena? Duh, it’s a coastal city!” But hold on tight, because this ain’t your average fish tale.
We’re talking about seafood so fresh, it practically jumps off the plate and does a champeta dance in your mouth. We’re talking about flavors that’ll make you shout “¡Ay, qué rico!” with every bite. From those hole-in-the-wall gems where the fishermen bring their catch of the day to those fancy restaurants with ocean views and menus that read like poetry, Cartagena’s seafood scene is a vacilón for your taste buds.
Cartagena’s got a bunch of options for every budget and taste, and let me tell you, putting this list of restaurants together wasn’t no papayazo. Still, every place we’ve picked here made the cut for being una chimba, so you’re in good hands.
If you’re turisteando around the Heroica, I’d totally recommend not missing out on the chance to fully enjoy the sabrosura of the walled city’s culinary life. Honestly, I’d say the most bacano part of a trip is almost always the food. That’s why I’m here to lend you a hand, because, let’s be real, with so many options, it can get a bit overwhelming.
And guess what? I’m your parcera in this delicious adventure. I’ll be guiding you to the hidden treasures and the must-try dishes that’ll make your trip unforgettable.
So, get ready to loosen your belt and dive headfirst into this seafood extravaganza!
Best Rooftop and Best Overall: Buena Vida Marisqueria
- Restaurant: Buena Vida Marisqueria
- Location: Getsemaní (Calle de la Sierpe #9A-12)
- Unique Features: This place is a vacilón! It’s got that cool, laid-back vibe, the seafood is fresquísimo, the views oh the views will make you fall in love with this resto. Also the staff is always ready with a smile and a good recommendation.
- Price Range: $$ (Moderate) – You’ll get your money’s worth here, for sure.
- Must-Try Dishes: Okay, listen up! You HAVE to try the “Cazuela de Mariscos” (a seafood stew that’ll make you wanna lick the bowl), the “Ceviche Buena Vida” (their signature ceviche, with a twist), and the grilled octopus (tender and flavorful, ¡qué rico!).
- Why It’s the Best: The first time I went to Buena Vida, I was blown away! The seafood was so fresh, and the flavors were incredible. I had the Cazuela de Mariscos, and let me tell you, it was a party in my mouth! The service was also top-notch; everyone was so friendly and attentive. And my favorite part is that you get both, an incredible view from their rooftop and delicious food. I can’t wait to go back and try all the menu!
Best Wine Selection: La Cevicheria
- Restaurant: La cevicheria
- Location: Calle Stuart por el hotel Santa Clara Calle 39 #7 14, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
- Wine List Highlights: This restaurant has a really good selection for everybody, just to mention some, they have the popular CARTAGENA Sauvignon Blanc from Chile, another popular one Santa Margherita for the prosecco lovers, also Oro Veneto. If you love the classic red wine, they can offer you MULLER Koch, Blauer Zweigelt, CIU CIU Rosso Piceno and ABADAL FRANC, Cabernet. Give them a chance and go try more of their wine menu.
- Best Dishes to Pair with Wine: Their ceviche (Unexpected right? I know, but it’s just a perfect mix) with a Chilean Sauvignon Blanc. You can also pair the parrilla con mariscos with a cup of wine and uff pa’ delicioso.
- Price Range: $$ ( I would say it’s not the most expensive but not as cheap either, be prepared)
- Why It Stands Out: They know what they’re doing. It’s called La Cevichería, and in my opinion, they are the kings of Colombian ceviche. Everything they offer is super fresh and tasty. The service is awesome; they know their menu really well. Their cocktails and wines are top-notch. It’s well located, and they have a really pleasant atmosphere.
Most Luxurious: Marea: A top choice for best seafood in Cartagena
- Restaurant: Marea
- Location: Centro de convencionesb, Getsemaní, Cartagena de Indias, Cartagena, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
- Ambiance: It has a minimalist and elegant decoration, without excesses, it does not need much because its beautiful view of the walled city is the perfect complement. You can enjoy live music and you will have a wonderful time.
- Price Range: $$$$ (Get ready to splurge, but it’s an experience you won’t forget)
- Luxury Dish Recommendations: Their tasting menu is a must-try for a truly luxurious seafood experience, a popular dish I can recommend is the arroz caldoso, a mix of fish,octopus, squid and shrimps, riquisimo!
- Why It’s Luxurious: Marea by Rausch is considered a luxury restaurant in Cartagena due to a combination of factors: its renowned chefs (the Michelin-starred Rausch brothers), prime location overlooking the bay, sophisticated design and ambiance, high-quality ingredients, exceptional service, and an air of exclusivity. These elements create a refined and memorable dining experience, which is reflected in higher prices compared to more casual eateries.
Most Economical: La Vieja Guardia Fish & Wine

- Restaurant: La Vieja Guardia Fish & Wine
- Location: Centro San Diego cll Portobello #10-15, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
- Price Range: $$ (They have really fair prices compared to other near places)
- Must-Try Dishes: You must try El Pulpo vieja guardia, one of the best dishes I had there, super fresh and tasty.
- Why It’s the Best Budget Option: In this location it is very common to see tourist trap restos with expensive prices and not so good food. La Vieja Guardia offers an incredible menu with fresh and high quality food, live music, nice portions and a good environment for a reasonable price.
Best for Shows/Events: Restaurante-Bar San Nicolás

- Restaurant: Restaurante-Bar San Nicolás
- Location: Cl. 25 #8b162, Getsemaní, Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
- Event Schedule: They offer live music on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
- Special Menu items: El arroz de mariscos and ceviches are my top options.
- Why It’s Great for Events: This place has a wonderful decoration and ambiance, it also offers good live music so you can enjoy your time here with friends or family, the prices are really good so it won’t be crazy expensive if you go with a group.
Best Food Quality: Juan Del Mar Restaurante

- Restaurant: Juan Del Mar Restaurante
- Location: Plaza de San Diego 8-12, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
- What Makes the Food Stand Out: This resto stands out for its dedication to fresh, high-quality seafood, often prepared with creative twists that honor Colombian culinary traditions. Dishes like the chicharrones de pescado and cebiche entreamigos showcase both local flavors and innovative techniques, ¡Una nota!
- Price Range: $$ (Not cheap but super good price for what you’re given)
- Must-Try Dishes: Their fabulous ceviche, the lobster paella is out of this way and the grilled octopus.
- Why It’s the Best in Terms of Food Quality: They go beyond the typical “fresh catch”: Sure, everyone says their seafood is fresh, but Juan del Mar takes it seriously. They have relationships with local fishermen and prioritize sustainable practices, so you’re getting the best quality while supporting responsible fishing. It’s not just about freshness, it’s about knowing how to treat those ingredients. The chefs at Juan del Mar have a deep understanding of different seafood varieties and how to bring out their best flavors. Whether it’s grilling, frying, or ceviche, they nail it every time. They’re not afraid to experiment with bold flavors and unique combinations. You’ll find traditional Colombian preparations alongside innovative dishes that fuse local ingredients with global influences. It’s a culinary adventure of course I had to put !
Conclusion
So there you have it, my friends! Cartagena has a seafood experience for every taste, every budget, and every occasion.
I can’t even start to explain the crazy amount of amazing spots you’ll find in Cartagena. If you’re all about seafood, this is the real deal. Here, it’s not just food—it’s life. Every dish is made with cariño, tradition, and that unmistakable costeño sazón.
The freshest ingredients? Straight outta the sea, no joke. And the best part? You’ve got so many ways to enjoy it. If you’re rolling solo, on a budget, or just feeling adventurous, hit up the kioskos by the beach or those little spots where locals turn their houses into cozy restaurants. Their sazón will have you coming back for more. Or, check out chill little joints with stunning views and prices that don’t break the bank.
Now, if you’re ready to splurge a little, Cartagena has tons of spots that serve up delicious food with a unique costeño vibe—warm, fun, and absolutely unforgettable. And if you’re all about the high life, there’s no shortage of fancy restaurants here. Think gourmet dishes, top-notch chefs, and vibes that scream luxury.
No matter if you’re looking for a cozy dinner with a stunning view, a laid-back lunch by the beach, or an indulgent seafood feast, this guide has everything you need. Go ahead and explore, and make sure to share your favorites with me! ¡Chao, pues!