Colombia’s streets are filled with the irresistible aromas of sizzling meats, fried delicacies, and freshly baked treats. From bustling city corners to small coastal towns, street food is an integral part of Colombian culture. It’s affordable, packed with flavor, and a true reflection of the country’s diverse culinary heritage. If you want to experience authentic Colombian flavors, skip the fancy restaurants and dive into the vibrant world of street food.

1. Buñuelos – The Perfect Balance of Crunchy and Soft

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A favorite during Christmas but enjoyed year-round, buñuelos are deep-fried cheese balls made from corn and cassava flour. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they are often paired with natilla, a traditional Colombian custard.

2. Pandebono – A Cheese Lover’s Dream

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If you love cheese, pandebono is a must-try. This small, round bread is made with cheese, corn flour, and tapioca starch, creating a chewy texture with a slightly sweet flavor. Best enjoyed fresh out of the oven with a hot cup of Colombian coffee.

3. Chuzos – Colombian-Style Kebabs

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For meat lovers, chuzos (Colombian skewers) are a must-try. These grilled meat sticks, usually made with chicken, pork, or beef, are seasoned with spices and served with arepas or patacones (fried plantains). Some versions include a drizzle of "salsa rosada" (a mix of ketchup and mayo).

4. Obleas – A Sweet Street Treat

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Obleas are thin, crispy wafers sandwiched together with various fillings, most commonly arequipe (Colombian dulce de leche), cheese, jam, or condensed milk. These large, paper-thin treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

5. Salchipapas – The Ultimate Comfort Food

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A favorite among late-night snackers, salchipapas is a combination of sliced sausages and French fries, topped with various sauces like mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard. Some variations even include cheese, quail eggs, or bacon for extra indulgence.

6. Patacones – Fried Green Plantains Done Right

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Patacones, also known as tostones, are flattened, twice-fried green plantains that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They are often served with hogao (a tomato and onion sauce) or topped with cheese, guacamole, or meat.

7. Mazorca Desgranada – A Loaded Corn Dish

This dish features grilled corn kernels mixed with shredded meat, cheese, salsa rosada, and crispy potato sticks. It’s a delicious and satisfying blend of textures and flavors.

8. Perro Caliente Colombiano – The Over-the-Top Hot Dog

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Colombian hot dogs are far from ordinary. Topped with pineapple sauce, crushed potato chips, coleslaw, ketchup, and cheese, these loaded hot dogs are messy but incredibly delicious.

Where to Find the Best Colombian Street Food

Colombian street food is available in every city, but some of the best places to try these dishes include:

  • Bogotá – Plaza de Mercado de Paloquemao, La Perseverancia Market
  • Medellín – Laureles, Parque Lleras, Mercado del Río
  • Cartagena – Getsemaní neighborhood, Mercado de Bazurto
  • Cali – Avenida Sexta, Alameda Market
  • Barranquilla – La Troja, Calle 84

Colombian street food is more than just a quick bite—it’s a cultural experience. Whether you’re indulging in a cheesy arepa, biting into a crispy empanada, or savoring a sweet oblea, each dish tells a story of tradition and flavor. So, next time you’re in Colombia, skip the fancy restaurants and explore the streets—you won’t regret it.