Gastronomic Crawl in Bogotá, Colombia

Experience Bogotá’s Culinary Soul with a Gastronomic Crawl in Usaquén

Imagine strolling through a neighborhood that blends old-town charm with the lively pulse of the city’s modern culinary scene. That’s precisely what this Gastronomic Crawl in Bogotá offers. Starting at Canasto Picnic Bistró, you’ll indulge in a specially curated Colombian meal, then explore the sweet world of roscones, sample local Colombian cacao, and finish with premium rum at Pedro Mandinga. All this for $75 per person, lasting about 4.5 hours—a perfect way to taste Bogotá in a single evening.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are its vegan-friendly approach—a rare find in traditional Colombian fare—and the authentic local ingredients used at each stop. The second is the blend of cultural insights sprinkled throughout, whether it’s about the city’s history or the art of Colombian chocolate and rum.

A small consideration to keep in mind is that drinks at the second and third stops are not included—so if you’re a thirsty traveler, you’ll want to budget for that. Also, the tour is best suited for adventurous eaters eager to explore different facets of Colombian cuisine, from savory to sweet and spirited.

If you love discovering hidden gems, chatting with friendly guides, and tasting delicious food in a lively neighborhood, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially ideal for newcomers to Bogotá who want a well-rounded, engaging introduction to the city’s food scene.

Key Points

• Vegan-friendly options ensure everyone can enjoy the experience.
• Authentic Colombian flavors shine through in every stop, from traditional dishes to local desserts.
• The small group size (up to 50 travelers) fosters a friendly, intimate atmosphere.
• Cultural insights enhance the tasting experience at each locale.
• The tour’s duration of 4.5 hours strikes a good balance between tasting and sightseeing.
• Location in Usaquén offers a charming mix of old-town ambiance and modern culinary hotspots.

A Deep Dive into Bogotá’s Culinary Gems

When we think of Colombia, we often picture lush landscapes, lively music, and vibrant festivals. But the food scene—less often highlighted—offers just as much character and flavor as the country’s iconic sights. This Gastronomic Crawl captures that essence perfectly, taking you through some of the most beloved local flavors in Bogotá’s historic Usaquén district.

The Neighborhood: Usaquén

Once a small town, Usaquén has grown into a lively, picturesque neighborhood that still retains its colonial charm. Its streets are lined with stone-paved alleys, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. This blend of old and new makes it an ideal setting for a culinary exploration. The tour begins here, with the meeting point at Canasto Picnic Bistró, a restaurant that’s been given a special menu for this experience.

The First Stop: Canasto Picnic Bistró

Here, we are introduced to Colombia’s culinary diversity with a two-course meal featuring local ingredients. The menu includes an appetizer and a main course, paired with an artisanal soda—a refreshing twist that showcases Colombia’s innovative beverage scene. The setting promotes a relaxed atmosphere where we can chat with the guide, learn about Colombian flavors, and start to understand the country’s food identity.

Guests consistently praise the experience, with one reviewer stating it was the “best Colombian food experience ever.” The focus on local ingredients and the interactive environment make this a highlight, especially for those eager to taste genuine regional flavors.

The Sweet World of La Rosconería

Next, we move to a modern restaurant that celebrates roscones—a beloved Colombian pastry. This spot is known for its creative environment centered around this traditional bread, which can be stuffed with six different flavors. We sample a sweet stuffed roscon, a dessert that perfectly balances tradition with innovation.

Guests describe the desserts as “amazing”, and many note how this stop offers a delightful glimpse into Colombia’s sweet culinary traditions. If you’re a fan of sweets, this is likely to be a favorite part of the tour, especially because you get to choose from a variety of flavors.

The Chocolate Experience at Legado

No Colombian culinary tour would be complete without exploring cacao, the country’s pride. At Legado, we visit an artisanal cacao shop committed to sustainable practices and supporting local growers. You’ll taste two filled chocolate bonbons with tropical flavors and a small cacao bar of 70% regional cacao.

Reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides make the cacao tasting both fun and educational. The emphasis on regional varieties and sustainable sourcing makes this stop stand out, especially for eco-conscious travelers. It’s a chance to appreciate Colombia’s world-renowned cacao while indulging in decadent chocolates.

The Grand Finale: Pedro Mandinga Rum Bar

The tour concludes at a specialized rum bar, renowned for blending high-quality rum with local fruits and edible plants. Here, we enjoy a 20% discount on the check, giving us a chance to relax and reflect on the evening. Rum lovers will appreciate the opportunity to taste unique cocktails, while others can simply savor the atmosphere.

Guests have called this a “great way to end the night”, noting that the friendly staff and vibrant setting enhance the experience. It’s a fitting end to a culinary journey that balances tradition, creativity, and fun.

What Travelers Can Expect from This Tour

Duration and Group Size: At about 4.5 hours, this tour is a comfortably paced exploration, allowing plenty of time to enjoy each stop. Groups are capped at 50 travelers, fostering a lively yet manageable environment where you can easily interact with guides and fellow participants.

Price and Value: For $75, you get a full meal, dessert, cacao tasting, and a discount on rum drinks. Considering the quality of food, the inclusion of artisanal beverages, and the chance to learn about Colombian cuisine and culture, this is a solid value for anyone wanting an all-in-one introduction to Bogotá’s food scene.

Accessibility: The tour starts in Usaquén, a well-connected neighborhood near public transportation, making it easy to access without the hassle of complicated transfers. The vegan-friendly aspect broadens its appeal, ensuring dietary preferences don’t limit enjoyment.

Guide and Atmosphere: Based on reviews, guides like Liz are friendly, knowledgeable, and approachable, turning what might be a simple food tour into a memorable cultural outing. The atmosphere is casual, making it perfect for travelers of all ages and backgrounds.

Why This Tour Works Well

This experience is ideal for food lovers, culture enthusiasts, and adventurous travelers eager to learn about Colombia through its flavors. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy small group settings, as they facilitate more interaction and personalized attention. If you’re visiting Bogotá for the first time or seeking a fun way to spend an evening, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of local life.

It’s also a great choice for vegans, given the tour’s friendly approach, and for those interested in artisan products like cacao and rum. The mix of dining, tasting, and cultural storytelling makes this an engaging, memorable experience.

The Sum Up

A Gastronomic Crawl in Bogotá offers more than just food—it’s a window into the city’s soul, combining authentic flavors, local ingredients, and friendly guides to give you a taste of Bogotá’s vibrant culinary scene. The carefully curated stops, from traditional Colombian dishes to artisanal chocolates and rum, make it a well-rounded, immersive experience.

It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a manageable yet rich overview, or foodies eager to explore new tastes in a lively neighborhood. The vegan options and small group atmosphere ensure everyone can enjoy the experience comfortably.

All in all, if you’re after a fun, educational, and delicious way to spend an evening, this tour is an excellent choice—your taste buds will thank you.

FAQ

Is this tour vegan-friendly?
Yes, the tour is designed to be vegan-friendly, ensuring that all dietary preferences are accommodated.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, allowing enough time to enjoy each stop comfortably.

Are drinks included at the stops?
No, the drinks at La Rosconería and Legado are not included, but the tour includes an artisanal soda and a 20% discount at the rum bar.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Canasto Picnic Bistró in Usaquén and finishes at Pedro Mandinga Rum Bar.

Is the tour suitable for groups?
Yes, it typically accommodates up to 50 travelers, making it lively but still manageable for personal interaction.

What’s the price and what does it include?
For $75, you get a full dinner (appetizer + main), dessert, cacao tasting, and a discount at the rum bar.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, bookings are usually made about 36 days in advance on average, ensuring availability.

Is there any flexibility for cancellations?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund.

Can I participate if I don’t eat meat?
Absolutely, with the vegan-friendly focus, the menu can accommodate dietary restrictions.

What makes this tour stand out?
Guests consistently praise the friendly guides, authentic flavors, and the chance to learn about Colombian culture through food.

This detailed exploration of Bogotá’s flavors promises a memorable, tasty journey through the heart of the city. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat tour, the blend of tradition, taste, and storytelling will leave you with a deeper appreciation of Colombia’s culinary artistry.