Santa Marta is renowned not only for its stunning beaches and deep history, but also for its exquisite cuisine. This city offers an amalgam of tastes, reflecting influences from indigenous, African, Spanish and Caribbean culinary traditions.
Below, we invite you to try these emblematic dishes of Santa Marta.
- Seafood Casserole:
This dish is a jewel of Samarian cuisine. The seafood casserole, a rich and creamy soup, marvels with a combination of seafood and a distinctive touch of coconut milk, creating a delicate and deep flavor. Composed of a selection of fresh seafood such as shrimp, squid and mussels, it is served hot and is the perfect accompaniment to a coastal evening.
- Fried Fish with Patacones:
The fried fish, a typical dish of the coast, is prepared in Santa Marta with local species such as mojarra or sierra. Marinated in lemon and garlic, it is fried until it reaches a golden and crispy texture on the outside, while maintaining its internal juiciness. It is typically served with patacones, coconut rice and salad.
- Shrimp Cocktail or Ceviche:
Shrimp cocktail is a preparation that generally includes raw shrimp, which are dressed or marinated in a mixture of olive oil or pink sauce, chopped onion and cilantro. Sometimes, hot sauce and lime juice are added for extra flavor and spice. It is usually served with crackers as an accompaniment.
- Cayeye:
Mote de guineo, better known as "cayeye" in the region, stands out as a distinctive dish of the Caribbean coast of Colombia. Its versatility has positioned it as a fundamental element in Caribbean breakfasts, lunches and dinners. The cayeye consists of guineo (green banana) that is cooked and mashed to a smooth texture, then enriched with butter and garnished with the unmistakable grated coastal cheese, bringing rich and authentic flavors to every bite.
- Egg Arepas:
These are corn-based arepas, either sweet or savory, filled with egg and fried until golden brown and crispy.
Santa Marta's cuisine is a reflection of its diverse and rich culture. These specialties not only delight the senses but also tell the history of the region through their flavors. When visiting Santa Marta, do not miss the opportunity to taste these dishes, which are the very essence of its culinary identity.
We invite you to delve into the rich gastronomy of Santa Marta. Discover here links to gastronomic tours and reservations at the most outstanding local restaurants.
