Villa de Leyva: Top Food & Drink Spots – A Local’s Guide
Villa de Leyva, a charming town nestled high in the Colombian Andes, boasts so much history and natural beauty. It also has a fantastic culinary scene that definitely goes way beyond just typical tourist fare. I mean, that large main plaza is not just a place for pictures; it’s also surrounded by places that serve everything from updated Colombian dishes to those delicious wood-fired pizzas and of course the artisanal coffee you need after a long day exploring. You could find spots where you can soak up the local vibe and of course eat something amazing.
1. Restaurante Casa San Pedro: Colombian Flavors with Flair
Casa San Pedro is a top place you have to check out if you want something that’s a bit traditional. This place seems to celebrate Colombian cuisine, giving classic meals a contemporary twist. You know, the interior is nice, making it ideal for a chill dinner or a somewhat special lunch. They certainly take advantage of regional ingredients, making each dish taste super fresh and of course very authentic. Arguably, you’ll want to try the “Trucha a la plancha” that seems to be a local favorite.
The thing that stands out, too it’s almost always the attention to detail. Like your plate will be beautifully plated, and that almost matches the ambiance. That said the service could be pretty good too. Arguably, this location balances a classy environment with friendly hospitality; you know, it creates an environment where everybody feels welcome.
2. Mercado Municipal: A Taste of Local Life
You might find the Mercado Municipal an experience if you want to go deep into local culture. So, you could grab tasty, affordable meals and also shop for unusual ingredients. I mean, this bustling marketplace tends to be the central point for local commerce. Offering meals that are going to be the true representation of regional tastes.
You can actually sample several items; they have arepas filled that are like your warm corn cakes or try the “almojábanas” that is almost like your cheese bread. Now, these could be excellent examples of your everyday cooking; it displays Colombian food in its purest way. Anyway, it’s a cheap place, that also offers a unique cultural glimpse. Very worthwhile to visit.
3. Pasteleria Francesa: A French Touch in the Andes
When your sweet tooth asks for something, La Pasteleria Francesa tends to be a charming café and that almost offers a welcome break. Arguably from the Colombian fare if you prefer something different. In some respects, this place tends to make very excellent French pastries such as croissants. You know, or even pain au chocolat which are almost as flaky and that are often filled with the chocolatey goodness. These, similarly to most meals goes very well with a rich Colombian coffee.
Sitting down is not really a bad experience since the coffee shop is relaxing with this European café vibe. And the place seems like your chill stop for a morning treat or also a relaxed afternoon. Actually it can cater a craving for baked sweets. Or also provide some coffee at any time.
4. El Garden Restaurante: Italian Classics with a View
You should give El Garden Restaurante a go and you will enjoy this great Italian restaurant. Actually it provides spectacular views of Villa de Leyva from its patio, pretty nice location I would say. I mean, it may feel touristy but honestly this is because its menu is full of your well-known Italian meals. Think of wood-fired pizzas as well as some handmade pasta.
What can set El Garden apart, more or less, is the atmosphere, mainly the outdoors patio, perfect if you’d like to watch sun goes down. Still the pasta dishes are something you need to consider or even pizzas with a thin crust tend to make a delightful meal after hiking through the town. Either way, you will chill after visiting that spot!
5. La Galeria Cafe Restaurante Bar: Ambiance and Cocktails
When the night falls, La Galeria gets vibrant. It has a pretty distinctive setting. In fact the decoration features artworks plus local craftsmanship that tend to complement drinks in a unique experience. Obviously cocktails may offer you a different experience compared with any place you might visit. Usually, it hosts events which are typically in the evenings.
Visiting that bar will not be bad if you like chilling with a drink after enjoying local scenes. So, expect an intimate setting inside since they care about the decoration and of course try to grab some beers after your visit. Obviously, don’t visit at midnight! It should not be fun at that hour, should it?