Best Local & Traditional Foods to Try in Cali
Discover the 6 best local and traditional foods to try in Cali. Get AI-powered recommendations for authentic dishes, traditional cuisine, and the best restaurants.
Sancocho de Gallina
This traditional Colombian chicken stew is a hearty dish made with hen, plantains, yuca, and corn, simmered to perfection. It's often served with avocado and white rice on the side, making it a comforting staple in Cali.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch
Cultural Significance
Sancocho is a beloved dish in Colombian culture, often enjoyed during family gatherings and celebrations.
Where to try it
Bandeja Paisa
A traditional platter from the Antioquia region, this dish includes rice, beans, ground meat, chicharrón (crispy pork), plantains, avocado, and a fried egg. It's a feast that showcases the variety of flavors and textures of Colombian cuisine.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch
Cultural Significance
Bandeja Paisa is a symbol of Colombian culinary pride, representing the country's diverse agricultural products.
Where to try it
Choclo con Queso
A popular street food snack in Cali, this dish features grilled corn on the cob slathered with cheese and butter. It's a simple yet flavorful treat enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Choclo con Queso reflects the Colombian love for corn, which is a staple ingredient in many dishes.
Where to try it
Postre de Natas
This traditional dessert is made from milk, sugar, and cinnamon, resulting in a creamy and sweet treat that is often enjoyed after meals. It's a must-try for those with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Best Time
dessert
Cultural Significance
Postre de Natas is a classic dessert that showcases the rich dairy culture of Colombia, often prepared during special occasions.
Where to try it
Merengón
A beloved Colombian dessert, Merengón consists of layers of meringue, whipped cream, and fresh fruit, typically strawberries. It's light, sweet, and perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients
Best Time
dessert
Cultural Significance
Merengón is a popular dessert at celebrations and gatherings, highlighting the Colombian penchant for sweet treats.
Where to try it
Lulada
This refreshing local drink is made from lulo fruit, which is blended with water, sugar, and ice. It's a popular choice to cool down in the warm climate of Cali.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Lulada is a quintessential Cali drink that showcases the unique flavors of Colombian tropical fruits.