Restaurant Carmen in Cartagena was highly recommended by many. Known to offer elevated Colombian food with local ingredients incorporated into every dish.
the food
Overall, the quality of the food was fresh. My friend ordered a pizza which was absolutely delicious! Plenty of cheese and a good size for one hungry person and good to split between two. The pollito free style as a main was on the smaller side but the flavor was good.
Artisanal Colombian fish (white fish) on a bed of coconut rice risotto, with fresh
hearts of palm on top served with a table side pour of a peach palm sweet & sour sauce.
Fish: Cooked to perfection – Sauce: Sweeter than I was expecting – Portion: large
Chicharrón (pork belly) glazed in hibiscus & corozo fruit on a bed of pumpkin seed
purée topped with a spiced pork jus and pickled hibiscus flowers.
Porked: Cooked to perfection – Puree: 10/10 – Portion: Small, was finished in a few bites
unexpected dishes
Above is an octopus puree with a blended lentil and a chip. It was good, different.
During our dinner service we were served 3 small unexpected tastes. I’m not sure why, possibly because they are known for their 7 or 9 course tasting menu. We dined on a weekday at 6:30 pm so very early.
Next we were gifted yuca bread with a sour cream dip.
Lastly, we were served a granola with a mystery foam with a slice of pineapple on top. We guessed the foam to be watermelon, strawberry, kiwi, soursop and we were incorrect. The answer if cucumber! Very unexpected and fun.
Dessert
Tutti frutti sorbet, granadilla sorbet, tropical fruit escabeche,
guáimaro & mucuna seeds financier, mango viche curd.
This was not it for me. The sorbet lacked fruity flavor. The seeds on top were unpleasant and at the bottom there was some type of vinegar based liquid.
the drinks
Perfection, no notes. Tequila Altos Plata, white wine, Licor 43, sour guava & sweet pepper
syrup, butterfly pea tincture.
service
100/10 from start to finish. Friendly, fast, helpful. Answered every question, offered recommendations, and explained each dish in detail.
Key Information
- Average price per person $50
- Dinner: Monday – Sunday
- Lunch Wednesday – Sunday
- +57 3103949344
- Visit The Menu
- Save the location
Reservations Recommended – LGBTQ+ friendly – Cash or Card – Stairs to Enter
If you’re looking for more restaurants in Cartagena stay tuned for a complete list.