You know my love of markets and food served at market stalls. BTW, I also love street food and was delighted that my Colombian girlfriend living in NYC thought street food was an absolute must when visiting Cartagena! Here is what she told me:

Cartagena’s street food offers a mix of bold flavors, cultural heritage, and simple pleasures. From refreshing fruit snacks to crispy fried delights, there’s something for every palate. While trying food from street vendors may seem adventurous, these bites are a big part of what makes Cartagena’s culinary scene so vibrant and unforgettable. Don’t leave without indulging in a little street-side gastronomy—you’ll be glad you did!

Fruit and Refreshments

Mango Biche con Sal: Green mango slices topped with salt and lime are a refreshing and tangy treat, perfect for beating the heat. You’ll find vendors—often women in colorful attire or carts brimming with fresh fruit—offering this quintessential snack.

Shaved Ice (Raspao): Look out for carts selling shaved ice, often flavored with colorful syrups. The kola flavor with a drizzle of condensed milk is the most authentic and a favorite among locals. It's a sweet, cooling delight that’s hard to resist in the tropical heat.

Fried Favorites

Cartagena’s street food shines when it comes to fried snacks, blending Colombian and Caribbean influences:

Caribanola (or Carimagnola): This yucca patty stuffed with ground beef is a must-try. Crispy on the outside and savory on the inside, it’s a satisfying bite that captures local flavors perfectly.

Arepa de Huevo: A deep-fried arepa stuffed with an egg, this classic is a street food staple. It’s hearty, flavorful, and embodies Cartagena’s love for fried indulgence.

Kibbe (Quipe): Reflecting the city’s multicultural heritage, this Lebanese-inspired snack combines spiced beef and bulgur wheat. It’s a tasty nod to Cartagena’s diverse culinary history.

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