Many visitors elect to use the city of Santa Marta solely as a stopping off point for the beautiful Caribbean coastal attractions such as Tayrona Park, The Lost City, La Guajira, Minca and more. What with taxis being readily available to take you to Rio Hostel and the surrounding areas straight from the airport, it’s easy to overlook the historic city centre. However those that do choose to stay a night or two in the city are rewarded with an excellent selection of eateries. From where to sample local treats, to international brunch vibes, here we list our favourites.
1 Uhma
Sitting a little distance away from the historic centre in the more residential Los Cocos neighbourhood, Uhma is an intriguing combination of garden nursery and restaurant. The menu, compiled by British chef Quinten Leming, is a rich concoction of smokey cured meats (try the phenomenal capicola or people’s favourite pastrami sandwich), and fishy treats - don’t miss the smoked red snapper rillette. But If you’re of the veggie persuasion don’t worry, they’ve got you; the Malaysian Laksa or grilled asparagus and portobello risoni more than keep up with the carnivorous options.
Top tip: the chocolate cheesecake is worth the trip alone. Grab a beer at the bar and tuck in.
2 Ouzo
This is the old school favourite in Santa Marta. Sitting in the shady parque Parque de Los Novios, this Greek Mediterranean spot has been doing its thing for over a decade now, and there’s a reason why this place always has a line of people outside waiting for a table and attention from the national press. The pizzas are the best in the city, but the other half of the menu, ranging from steaks to moule a la creme, will have you coming back time and time again.
Top tip: the lamb dip from the starters is unparalleled, as is the smoked salmon carpaccio.
3 Serena
Ouzo’s younger and flashier sister sits on the marina at the far end of the boardwalk. With more of a focus on national dishes and a peppering of international-fusion style plates, Serena doesn’t just dine out on it’s prime location to impress; Colombian classics such as Posta Costeña (a thick and rich beef dish originating from Cartagena) or arroz caldoso, sit alongside lamb quesadillas and tuna tataki. Serena is a great place to come for a sundowner as well, boasting an extensive cocktail menu and sharing appetisers.
Top tip: try the aguachiles if you’re fancying something light
4 agua de rio
A great place for brunch, lunch or dinner, Agua de Rio sits one street back from the main beach drag and isn’t immediately noticeable from the street. The menu is simple, with some excellent pasta dishes and a couple of meaty treats such as the phenomenal pork ribs with mashed plantain. The salad selection is top notch too.
Top tip: you absolutely can’t miss the croquetas de mar starter, served with a heavenly smoked paprika sauce. Always order multiple portions
5 casa magdalena
Part of the Agua de Rio family, Casa Magdalena is the bigger and grander alternative to its more lowkey sister, occupying a beautifully renovated colonial house right next door. The menu leans heavily on Colombian favourites but does them all well - order the bonidola de cerdo if you’re hungry
Top tip: the raviolis de langosta never fail
We can also give a couple of honourable mentions - Ikaro as a brilliant veggie brunch spot, Radio Burger if you’re feeling in the mood for, you guessed it, burgers.
