5 Street Foods in Bogota, Colombia You Won’t Want to Miss

If you’re planning to visit Bogota, Colombia, take note of the following street foods that you shouldn’t miss while in town. You’ll find them in various areas throughout the city, but most notably during Sundays in the bohemian neighborhood of Usaquen and Saturdays in Chapinero, the hippest district of Bogota where many restaurants and bars are located. From deep-fried ice cream (helado de calle) to fried beef hearts (corazon), these 5 street foods will delight your taste buds, so make sure to try them all when you’re there!
1) Arepas

Arepas are a must-try when in Bogota – they’re savory corn cakes that can be topped with all sorts of deliciousness. My personal favorite is the arepa de choclo, which is made with fresh corn and topped with cheese. Other popular toppings include chicken, avocado, and hogao (a Colombian salsa). Arepas can be found all over the city, but my go-to spot is Arepas Pues on Calle 26.
2) Empanadas

Empanadas are a popular street food in Bogota, and for good reason. These fried or baked pastries are typically filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, making them the perfect snack or light meal. While you can find empanadas all over Colombia, they’re especially delicious in Bogota. Be sure to try an empanada de choclo, which is made with sweet corn.
3) Fritada

One of the most popular street foods in Bogota is fritada, a dish made of fried pork and potatoes. The pork is marinated in a special sauce made with cumin, paprika, and other spices, then fried until crispy. The potatoes are usually boiled or roasted before being added to the dish. Fritada is often served with arepas (cornmeal cakes), avocado, and ají (a spicy chili pepper sauce).
4) Bandeja Paisa

One of the most popular dishes in Colombia is bandeja paisa. It’s a platter of food that includes beans, rice, meat, avocado, arepa (a type of cornbread), and plantain. This dish is hearty and filling, and it’s sure to give you the energy you need to explore Bogota. The best part about this dish is that there are different variations of it depending on where you go. Some places will serve their own version with scrambled eggs instead of an arepa, or they’ll offer the option to add chorizo or pork rinds if desired. Whatever variation you try, be sure to order this Colombian favorite!
5) Ceviche

A mainstay of Colombian cuisine, ceviche is a must-try when visiting Bogota. This dish typically consists of fresh fish or seafood marinated in citrus juice and spices, resulting in a refreshing and flavorful dish. Be sure to try ceviche de la costa, which includes traditional ingredients like lime juice, onions, cilantro, and chili peppers.