Awarded El Tiempo's Most Beautiful Town in Colombia in 2020, Villa de Leyva, Colombia, is a small Colombian town that welcomes hundreds of thousands of national and international tourists every year. Beyond the town's historic architecture and cultural gems lies a gastronomic scene that combines tradition, innovation, and international flavours.
With lots of dining options available and the town getting busy during peak seasons, it's wise to plan your meals in Villa de Leyva to ensure you don’t miss out on its best experiences. Here are my top picks for the best restaurants in town.
Tierra de Carnes:
A meat lovers' haven in the heart of Villa de Leyva, Tierra de Carnes has earned a reputation for serving the best-slow-cooked pork ribs, grilled meats and hamburgers in town. This restaurant, which is just off the main plaza, prides itself on sourcing high-quality local ingredients and premium cuts of meat and crafting them into a mouthwatering menu with lots of delicious options for everyone in the family.
The experienced and attentive team focus on the little details, preparing delicious accompanying sides like perfectly cooked rice and delicious side salads that complement the perfectly cooked meats available.
Everything on the menu is incredible but we recommend trying the Filet Mignon, Hamburguesa Doble Nuestra, or Costillas de Cerdo!
El Chipa:
Overlooking Villa de Leyva’s iconic Plaza Mayor, El Chipa is a beloved long-standing local restaurant that has earned a reputation for its authentic Colombian food. The restaurant's prime location in the bottom corner of the main plaza of Villa de Leyva allows diners to enjoy meals while soaking in stunning views of the famous Iglesia Parroquial de Nuestra Señora del Rosario.
El Chipa delivers hearty food with local, national and international specialities. There are lots of delicious starters to share such as morcilla (blood sausage), longaniza and patacones. The restaurant has a number of dishes featuring Colombian coastal recipes as well as a number of international options like hamburgers and pasta.
If you enjoy grilled meats, the La Parrilla menu is a top choice at this restaurant. For the main course, there are lots of delicious options such as their baby beef, BBQ pork ribs or try a mix of everything with their delicious picada.
For budget travellers, the restaurant also offers a menu del dia with large portions between 12.00pm and 3.00pm on weekdays, including fresh fruit or soup, salad, a main dish and a drink (usually juice or lemonade) for a very reasonable price.
The restaurant also serves a range of delicious fresh juices and tasty cocktails. My personal favourite is the Caipiroska.
Coyote:
For an authentic taste of Mexico in the charming centre of Villa de Leyva, look no further than Coyote. This Mexican-owned gem is a beloved spot among both locals and visitors, offering a culinary experience that transports you straight to the heart of Mexico City.
The menu features classics like chilaquiles, tacos and enchiladas, each dish thoughtfully prepared with authentic flavours. The welcoming atmosphere is elevated by the open kitchen and the attentive, warm service.
As you sit down, you'll be welcomed with house-made tortilla chips and a large trio of condiments, ranging from mild to very spicy to compliment your meal. If you are a tequila lover, Coyote is well known for their huge margaritas which go perfectly with the spicy authentic food.
El Espacio de Chef Jhon:
Chef Jhon's simple but delicious approach to Colombian cuisine creates a wonderful authentic local dining experience. The menu, which will be recited aloud to you by the attentive waiting staff, showcases a variety of Colombian dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients.
The restaurant is located just outside of the main town on the circunvalar. The small doorway at the front of the restaurant is easy to miss but inside you will find a large semi-outdoor seating area with plenty of seating.
The popular menu del dia includes a starter, main course and drink. The starter usually consists of a choice of a portion of fresh papaya or the soup of the day. There are usually 4 or 5 main dish options to choose from that can include common Colombian classics like Pechuga a la Plancha (grilled chicken), Costillas de Cerdo (pork ribs), Muchacha in Salsa (Beef in Sauce), Bandeja Paisa, Churrasco and so on. The drink is usually fresh juice, lemonade, or aguapanela—a traditional Colombian drink made from unrefined cane sugar.
Chef Jhon offers the perfect blend of traditional Colombian dishes, cooked flawlessly and at an excellent price making it one of my top picks in Villa de Leyva.
Yoko:
Yoko, located in the Plaza de Comida in El Ático, offers a choice of tasty Asian dishes. This cosy spot is the best place in Villa de Leyva for sushi lovers and Yoko’s menu also includes ramen, and pho, as well as a variety of fried rice and noodle dishes.
The restaurant is situated in a plaza of restaurants known as El Ático, which consists of a number of restaurant options with a large shared outdoor seating area. There are options for everyone including tacos, pizza, charcuteries, Colombian food, a wine bar and more.
While the service can be a little bit slow, the pleasant outdoor seating area which often features live music entertainment and a full bar, is a great place to relax and wait for a delicious meal.
El Patio:
With its extensive menu and spacious outdoor seating, El Patio is a versatile dining spot that caters to all tastes. The menu is a mix of international and Colombian dishes, offering everything from pasta to grilled meats and local favourites like chinchulines.
While most people go to the restaurant for the popular parilla "grill" menu, in my opinion, El Patio serves the best pizza in Villa de Leyva and I highly recommend trying the Caprese pizza pictured below.
The restaurant features large semi-covered outdoor space, which is perfect for enjoying a meal while listening to live music, which is often featured in the evenings, complimenting the extensive menu of beers and cocktails available.
The atmosphere is both lively and family-friendly, making it an ideal spot for groups and families. The restaurant even has a number of options on the menu for your pets to enjoy.
Comida Coreana:
For a unique dining experience outside the town centre, Comida Coreana offers authentic Korean cuisine that’s well worth the short drive. Located just a few minute's drive from Villa de Leyva, this hidden gem offers a selection of Korean classics such as bibimbap, Korean fried chicken, and bulgogi.
The restaurant’s commitment to authenticity is evident. The food is packed with flavour, the service is exceptional and they even have Soju—a popular Korean liquor—as well as some delicious wine and beer options.
It's important to note that the opening hours can vary depending on the season so it is a good idea to contact the restaurant to confirm opening times before going to the restaurant. The restaurant is located near some popular tourist attractions outside the town such as paleontological sites, vineyards and more. You can find more info on activities in my Villa de Leyva - Travel & Food Guide.
Cuatro Nudos:
Perched above Villa de Leyva’s Plaza Mayor, Cuatro Nudos offers more than just a meal—it offers a dining experience with a view. This restaurant is a fantastic choice for both lunch and dinner, providing stunning views of the town’s main square paired with excellent service, good food and large portions.
The menu at Cuatro Nudos is diverse, featuring everything from sandwiches and pizzas to pasta and German sausages. Each dish is prepared with care and the restaurant uses both fresh local and imported ingredients to curate the unique menu.
For the entré, you can enjoy their mix of German sausages to share and I highly recommend their pasta alfredo served with juicy chicken pieces or the meatball sandwich.
Alonso & Bob's BBQ:
Alonso & Bob's BBQ, located in what can only be described as a front garden of a home just off the main road outside Villa de Leyva, offers a welcoming pet-friendly space great for grabbing lunch before heading on the road.
The menu is focused on classic Texas BBQ-style dishes, with a choice of slow-cooked smoked meats, juicy ribs, and perfectly complimentary sides like potato salad with chopped celery and dill pickles. The dedicated owners informed me that you can also buy cold meats to bring home and prepare yourself.
The restaurant boasts a spacious outdoor garden seating area where guests can enjoy their meals in the fresh air, surrounded by the natural beauty of the countryside and stunning views of the mountains. The atmosphere is laid-back and casual and the restaurant doesn't have a huge choice of drinks but more than makes up for it with the delicious food on offer.
El Divino Campestre
El Divino Campestre combines contemporary dishes with a countryside charm. Surrounded by lush greenery, animals and scenic views of the mountains, the restaurant provides a warm, inviting atmosphere ideal for a relaxing meal.
The menu showcases a choice of tasty hamburgers, smoked meats and more. Guests can enjoy their meals indoors or outdoors in the tranquil seating area, perfect for soaking up the serene nature. The restaurant has a number of games to enjoy and a small park where kids can play on a trampoline and swings while families enjoy their meals.
The restaurant often features live music acts, even during the day. The outdoor bar which offers a large choice of beer and cocktail options, adds to the lively atmosphere of the space.
Chuska Cocina:
A short walk from the main plaza will bring you to Chuska Cocina, a restaurant that blends traditional Colombian flavours with contemporary culinary techniques. This modern twist on classic Colombian dishes makes Chuska Cocina a standout choice for breakfast, brunch and dinner.
The menu features a variety of innovative dishes, such as calentado, arepas topped with gourmet ingredients, eggs benedict with a Colombian flair, and freshly squeezed juices that highlight the tropical fruits of the region.
The restaurant uses high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that each dish is both fresh and flavourful. The space is sleek with a contemporary design, combined to create a cosy and warm atmosphere, complimented perfectly by the excellent service provided by the experienced team.
Alebrije Fusión Fantástica:
Alebrije Fusión Fantástica combines a mixture of Latin American-inspired cuisine with Colombian ingredients, resulting in a fusion of flavours that is as creative as it is delicious. The quaint outdoor terrace, beautiful plates of fresh and healthy food and imaginative menu make Alebrije Fusión Fantástica a must-visit for foodies visiting Villa de Leyva.
El Tigre Rosa by BomBon
El Tigre Rosa offers a unique fusion of Southeast and East Asian cuisine. The menu features a diverse selection of dishes inspired by countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, Japan and Indonesia, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and bold, aromatic flavours.
With a menu featuring spicy curries and flavourful noodle dishes, El Tigre Rosa invites guests to explore the tastes of Asia. The lively, colourful restaurant also offers a variety of cocktails and international beers, perfect for enjoying in its semi-outdoor dining space.
Villa de Leyva's culinary landscape is a testament to the town's diversity and its ability to embrace flavours from around the world while celebrating its own rich culinary heritage.
Other restaurants that deserve to be mentioned here include La Osteria, Mercé Restaurante, and Chez Remy each restaurant contributes to the vibrant tapestry that makes Villa de Leyva a true gastronomic gem. Embark on a culinary odyssey through this picturesque town and discover the diverse flavours that await at every turn.
Download our 40-page Villa de Leyva 2024 Travel Guide for everything you need to know for your upcoming trip to the town!
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