Cartagena’s relationship with the sea is not just a backdrop for postcards; it is the central nervous system of its cuisine. Nestled on Spain’s southeastern Murcia coast, this ancient port city has spent over two millennia perfecting the art of pulling dinner from the Mediterranean. From the sheltered waters of the bay to the deeper fishing grounds offshore, the local fleet supplies a network of kitchens where tradition is guarded fiercely.
Unlike the mass-tourism tapas bars found in some larger Spanish cities, dining in Cartagena is a distinctly local affair. Here, the menu often changes with the morning’s catch and the season’s winds. The local dialect of gastronomy speaks in salts, saffron, and the smoky notes of grilled fish, rather than heavy sauces that mask the primary ingredient. It is a city where the humble caldero—a rich, brothy rice dish born on the decks of fishing boats—is treated with the same reverence as a Michelin-starred tasting menu.
The geography of the city dictates the dining landscape. Down by the marina, you will find breezy terraces serving ice-cold Estrella de Levante beer alongside plates of glistening anchovies. In the historic center, tucked beneath the watchful gaze of Roman ruins, historic taverns serve up fried pulpo and salted mojama. Venturing out toward the fishing villages of El Cabo de Palos or La Azohía reveals rustic chiringuitos where the prawns are so fresh they snap when you bite them.
Understanding the local seafood hierarchy is key to ordering like a local. The gamba roja (red prawn) from nearby Mazarrón is the undisputed king of the crustacean world, prized for its intense sweetness and iodine punch. The dentón (dentex) and lubina (sea bass) from the Mar Menor and the Mediterranean are staples of the grill, while the humble boquerón (anchovy) proves that simplicity, when executed with great olive oil and vinegar, is a luxury in itself.
For the visitor, navigating this bounty can be overwhelming. Do you want the white-tablecloth elegance of a fine dining establishment, or the sand-between-your-toes authenticity of a beach bar? Are you seeking the theatrical presentation of a whole salt-baked fish, or the deep, comforting warmth of a rice dish designed to feed a hungry crew after a long night at sea? The answer likely lies somewhere in between, depending on your mood and your budget.
Because Cartagena is a working port rather than a purely decorative resort town, the quality threshold is high. Restaurants that survive here have done so because they are accountable to a clientele of discerning, no-nonsense locals. If the fish isn’t fresh, the business simply doesn’t last. This creates a highly competitive environment where even the most unassuming dining room can serve a plate of food that changes your definition of what seafood should taste like.
To help you cut through the noise and find the true gems, we have compiled a list of the twelve best seafood restaurants the city has to offer. Whether you are looking for a romantic dinner overlooking the harbor or a boisterous family lunch that lasts three hours, this guide covers the essential tables in the city.
Marisquería Freiduría La Marina
| Address | C. Santiago, 11, 30202 Cartagena, Murcia |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM, 8:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM, 8:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | 868 05 68 52 |
We visited Marisquería Freiduría La Marina with high expectations, but unfortunately the experience was disappointing overall.
The restaurant is extremely busy and very noisy, making it difficult to enjoy a relaxed meal. The staff seemed overwhelmed and constantly rushed. Throughout the service, we were repeatedly asked what we wanted to order, often without giving us enough time to look at the menu properly. I also felt that the menu and the different tasting options were not clearly explained, and there was a tendency to push certain dishes rather than guide customers through the available choices.
Regarding the food, the quality was inconsistent. Some of the shellfish and seafood included in the tasting menus felt quite average considering the price. On the positive side, the fresh red shrimp (Gamba Roja) was good and probably the highlight of the meal.
Unfortunately, the fish was overcooked and the French fries were poor quality and not enjoyable at all. Considering the overall experience, service, atmosphere, and food quality, I do not feel the restaurant offers good value for money.
For me, this was a 2-star experience. There are some good products available, but significant improvements in customer service, organization, and consistency in the kitchen would be needed for me to return.
⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2/5)
Amazing seafood and a lovely experience! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
We had a wonderful dinner at Marisquería La Marina. The seafood was absolutely delicious and very fresh. Everything was cooked perfectly and full of flavor.
The waiters were fantastic — funny, friendly, attentive to every little detail, and always making sure we were having a great time (thanks to Nico and Massimiliano). Their warm and cheerful attitude made the evening even more enjoyable.
The atmosphere was lovely, and we truly enjoyed the whole experience. A great place for fresh seafood and authentic Spanish cuisine.
We would definitely come back and highly recommend it! 🐟🦐🦪
From the moment we walked in until the very last bite, this was one of the best seafood dining experiences I’ve ever had.
The seafood was unbelievably fresh, perfectly cooked, and full of natural flavor. Every dish tasted like it had just come off the boat. The lobster was sweet and tender and every ingredient was prepared with incredible attention to detail. The premium olive oil served with the meal elevated everything to another level.
What truly set this restaurant apart was the service. The staff was warm, attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about creating an unforgettable experience. They anticipated every need without ever being intrusive, making us feel like valued guests from start to finish.
It’s rare to find a restaurant that excels equally in both food and hospitality, but this place absolutely delivers. If you’re looking for world-class seafood, impeccable service, and an experience you’ll remember long after the meal is over, this is the place. Without question, one of the finest seafood restaurants I’ve ever visited. I can’t wait to come back. Highly recommended!
Without question the best seafood I think I’ve ever eaten. Great place, friendly people, especially Luciana. 100% recommended. Great value for money.
Great food at a decent price. The staff is very busy and slightly forgetful but they are doing their best given the amount of work. Highly recommended!
Buena Vida Marisquería - Cartagena
| Address | Centro histórico, Cl. del Porvenir #Esquina, El Centro, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 11:30 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 11:30 PM |
| Phone | 322 3061025 |
This place is based on the food, the excellent service from Camila and the atmosphere! •Excellent food, we had the Cazuela levanta muertos soup, full of flavours! Beware, it is a big portion so if you eat small do not order entries !!!! Talking about entries: we had the ceviche and calamari! Both good but the ceviche was very good, feeling the deep citric flavour natural from this fish brings your desire to keep going te. If you don’t like citrus do not order otherwise be prepared to be delighted.
•Service: Camila did provide an attentive, respectful and great customer service! Recommendations were spot on and always attentive to any requests.
• atmosphere: is a combination of the great music and the decoration. Music is at the good level to have a pleasant conversation. Recommend the rooftop for drinks
Eddie Deserves His Own Review 🍸✨
Okay, I checked TikTok before coming to Buena Vida and the reviews were HIGH… but now that I’ve actually been here, I completely understand why. The restaurant is beautiful, the atmosphere is everything, and the drinks are GOOD… but honestly, Eddie is what made the experience stand out for me.
Eddie, YOU deserve your own review! 😂🍸 From the moment he started making my drinks, I could tell he knew exactly what he was doing. Every drink was made with intention, balanced perfectly, and honestly… he did not miss ONCE. I told him what I liked, and somehow he just understood the assignment every single time. 👏🏽
And can we talk about the presentation AND the personality behind the bar? Eddie has such a warm energy and a beautiful smile …and those pearly white teeth?! Sir! 😂😂 I’m trying to enjoy my cocktail, not fall in love with the bartender!
But jokes aside, Eddie was genuinely attentive, friendly, and made me feel taken care of without being overbearing. That kind of service makes a difference. You can have a beautiful restaurant and a great menu, but when you have someone like Eddie creating an experience behind the bar, that’s what people remember.
So if you’re coming to Cartagena and looking for somewhere with great food, a beautiful atmosphere, GOOD cocktails, and someone who knows how to make you feel welcome … GO TO BUENA VIDA.
And if Eddie is behind the bar when you go? Sit down, order a drink, and let him work his magic. 🍸
Eddie, thank you for making my drinks to perfection and making my night even better. And yes… ladies, he’s a cutie too. 😏😂
10/10 experience. I’d absolutely come back and I already know who I’m asking for when I do. 🍸✨🇨🇴
The food was delicious!! I am so glad we came here. Our 2nd night in Cartegena and Buena Vida was an excellent experience. We were greeted at the door and escorted up to the rooftop.
Pablo was attentive and provided great service and food recommendations. The food by far was more than I expected. Thank you to everyone who made this night special for us.
Alejandra came over and made sure we were pleased and having a great meal.
I stopped by Buena Vida for dinner and had a great experience. The food was excellent, the service was wonderful, and everything came out fairly quickly. Our server, Leidy, was especially attentive and friendly. The atmosphere was also really enjoyable — there was a DJ playing good-vibes music in the background that added to the ambiance without making it hard to have a conversation. Given its location in the heart of the historic center, along with the quality of the food and overall experience, I highly recommend this place! 👌🏾
The experience was overall the best I have had. The food, the atmosphere and the service were so amazing. The food feels so fresh and delicious. Everything we ate was just spot on. Camila was our waitress and she was incredible, so kind, polite and attentive. She made us feel welcome, at home and always checked on us. I absolutely recommend the place.
Mi Mare - Restaurante Cartagena
| Address | C. Carlos III, 49, 30201 Cartagena, Murcia |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 1:30 – 4:00 PM, 8:00 – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 1:30 – 4:00 PM, 8:00 – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 1:30 – 4:00 PM, 8:00 – 11:00 PM Thursday: 1:30 – 4:00 PM, 8:00 – 11:00 PM Friday: 1:30 – 4:00 PM, 8:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 1:30 – 4:00 PM, 8:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 1:30 – 4:00 PM, 8:00 – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | 601 99 44 95 |
I was really tired after a symposium and then exploring the beautiful town of Cartagena. I had a few tapas in the centre of town but not enough so decided to go here as it was sort of in my hotel (not part of it I think). Nice and interesting food choices. I had two tapas (shrimp croquettes and grilled veggies) which were great. But then the pavlova at desert was absolutely amazing. And the sweet wine they recommended with it was delicious as well. This is a great place, a bit outside the hustle and bustle of the town centre but highly recommended.
Amazing sophisticated food. This place is the cheaper version of michelin starred Magoga. Prices are very competitive. Sitting right next to Carlos III hotel, the restaurant offers two spaces: the restaurant itself which is superbly decorated and a hall just outside the hotel which is a bit cold in the winter and much less appealing. Really nice and efficient service at a very reasonable price for the quality.
Went for tapas the first night and it was so delicious went back for lunch the following day. In the 2 months we’ve been travelling through Europe it’s our favourite restaurant so far. The burger is amazing as well as the IPA beer. Thanks for making our trip special 🙂
Amazing food, service, everything. For the peice you cant beat it. Plenty of options. Could never eat like this at this price in the US. Will be back in a few days. Sister restarunt is the o ly Michelin star in town. Will be hitting Magoga as well!
Just amazing, cannot beat it for price and quality in the area, drinks equally brilliant value
Restaurante Techos Bajos
| Address | C. Joaquín Madrid, 1, 30202 Cartagena, Murcia |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM, 7:30 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Phone | 968 50 50 20 |
The food was excellent. I ordered 2 half portions, prices are fair and everything it’s fresh. It’s a very simple place but if you want to eat well that’s the place to be!
I do not recommend the restaurant, it was the worst meal of our stay in Spain 🙁 the meal with tuna, patatas fritas and pepper was soaking in oil (you can see it on the picture), it smelled like an old fish. We also ordered fritura mixta which was very average. We ate exactly same things a day before in other place and it was incomparable. However, the worst of all is the service. The stuff is arogant, they bring things to the table without a word and even looking at you.. I thought something was wrong with us but I noticed they treated all clients the same way. I would definitely expect better quality and service from 4,2 rating.
Good offering of seafood done simply but well - very good value for the large portions. The fried mixed variety of fish is particularly impressive for the price and great to have a bit of everything without having to decide. Of the 3 Cafe Asiáticos I tried in Cartagena, this was the best - a good option for a sweet finish instead of dessert.
Excellent in everything - as British we miss the simplicity and good quality of seafood in general- today is the feast of Maria in Dolor, very busy than usual however the standard was impeccable! So delicious and fresh Thank you
Ben
If you want to eat a good fish, good price and tasty this is your place! The restaurant is not remodeled or cozy, now it's worth it for the food! 100% recommended!
La Cevichería
| Address | Calle Stuart por el hotel Santa Clara Calle 39 #7 14, San Diego, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | 314 8949877 |
What can I say that hasn’t already been said about this place. It’s a must try if you are in Cartagena. Especially if you like seafood. The food was very flavourful and the service was excellent. I really enjoyed their hot sauce they make in-house.
I had the fish of the day with some garlic shrimp which was served with some crackers.
Great atmosphere and quite a cozy place if you sit inside .
Highly recommend!
We had to try this place since everyone was talking about it and it didn’t disappoint! The menu is extensive- not just ceviche, but cooked fish, rice dishes, etc. The dining room is well decorated and fun and the service is friendly, polite and excellent. I recommend the Colombiana ceviche, but the shrimp hot dog was nothing special- they top it with the standard condiments and mustard really doesn’t go with shrimp. Expect to wait a half hour if you’re going during peak hours.
Edit:
It was so good we went back for more! $15 king crab, fantastic paella and chocolate lava cake with corozo coulis!
This place is a must try! Yes, you may have to wait a bit for a table. But wow is the food amazing.
I had Ceviche colombiano camarones. I love ceviche and wanted to try the Colombian version. I had a mountain of shrimp and along the outside were slices of mango and plantains that had been coated in a sweet berry sauce.
We also had Ceviche Mixto. This was a very flavorful, traditional Ceviche (Peruvian). Again, absolutely full of flavorful and a delight.
The only bit that was a little frustrating is the constant people coming by the tables selling things or the entertainment in the plaza across that was very loud. So you may want to opt to be indoors if you want to avoid that bother. But nothing quite like being on the street for lunch!
“La Cevichería” was an amazing experience! Lina, our server, was incredibly helpful and fast, especially considering how busy the place was. The restaurant is small, but the atmosphere makes it totally worth it. Everyone seemed to be having a great time and enjoying the food and the vibe. wait, The hot sauce you can only get there, Hot af and so good
This restaurant was on top of my list to visit, and it did not disappoint.
The flavors from, the drinks to the appetizer, entré and down to the desserts were incredible. If u are ever in Cartagena, spoil yourself and pay La Cevicheria a visit. Your taste buds and tour heart will thank you. 🙂
Casa del Pescador
| Address | Restaurante casa del pescador, P.º del Muelle, S/N, 30202 Cartagena, Murcia |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Phone | 968 50 63 75 |
Whenever we eat out in Cartagena, this is one of our go to places. The paella and starters are always very good and full of flavour, and the staff are friendly and attentive. Always a great dining experience.
Fish restauraunt and they don't know how how to prepare food. It looks that they are using same oil for everything and "old" one. Each type of food not prepared well and with same taste. Pitty
An authentic fish restaurant with lots of local dishes. The mixed fried fish is a particular favourite with customers and does not disappoint. Excellent value, good service and authentic local vibe.
Attentive service, fresh fish and seafood (and other things too, like Queso Asado with a sauce "arándanos", which we tried for the first time), expertly cooked. We really enjoyed everything we ordered, like the Arroz Caldoso and the Calamar a la Andaluza. Beer was so great too. Washroom was spotless. We are happy we ate here.
Good food, average service, but the place leaves a bit to be desired, especially the dirty bathroom. Fair prices.
Restaurante Mares Bravas
| Address | Carretera Cartagena-Escombreras, S/N, 30350 Cartagena, Murcia |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | 968 50 20 65 |
Didn’t eat here as was here for scuba diving from the beach but will definitely be going back for the views, beach and lively looking restaurant specialising in seafood. Plenty of outside seating which even on a Monday at the end of April were completely full for lunch
Overall a poor experience. You can't serve food this bad in this day and age!
-Croquettes were soggy and microwaved warm.
-octopus tasted of fishy vinegar. Truly awful taste 🤢
-garlic prawns tasted frozen.
The whole atmosphere is filthy, coupled with underpar food which is microwaved or frozen (especially sea food) really put us off eating anymore food.
Go for a beer and maybe some olives.. but don't bother ordering food.
Vincentie is so amazing and hospitable - he is half of the experience. Food is decent, at very good prices - the view is hard to beat. Zamburinas were delicious! We came multiple time and will come again! Thanks.
Perfect at the beach!
This is a big restaurant with a huge terrace fronting the beautiful beach, if you are lucky you will have a stunning sunset, we where lucky. 🤗🙏
They offer a big menue with typical Spanish food and seafood.
The staff is nice, friendly, serviceminded and jokes with the customers. 🌞
In my eyes it is really cheap prices. 👍
🥩🍴🦞🍝🍷🍺
Mares Bravas at Cala Cortina was, unfortunately, one of the most disappointing restaurant experiences I've had in a long time. The restaurant itself was noticeably dirty, with tables left uncleared and a general lack of attention to cleanliness that made it difficult to relax and enjoy the setting.
What made matters worse was the attitude of the staff. Every interaction felt like an inconvenience to them. There was no warmth, no welcome, and not even the slightest sign that they wanted customers to be there. The atmosphere created by such miserable service completely overshadowed any positives.
The real shame is that Cala Cortina is a fantastic, lively beach with a wonderful atmosphere and plenty of people enjoying themselves. The restaurant could be a perfect place to sit, relax, and enjoy the surroundings, but instead it drags the whole experience down. A beautiful location deserves far better than this.
Chanquete
| Address | C. Pintor Balaca, 1, 30205 Cartagena, Murcia |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM, 8:00 – 11:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM, 8:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM, 8:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | 968 12 04 03 |
Just the spot if you're into your fish dish food. The Camarotes were fabulous however not being a big fish fan personally it's difficult to rave about the other stuff. Certainly it was tasty and looked beautiful, well presented. Restaurant is very nice with white tableclothes and very clean. If you're fishy : get-in
Stumbled upon this restaurante yesterday.what a find great food ,service and well priced. When in Cartagena again will definitely be revisiting. Nothing to add highly recommend FABULOUS
Tasty menu, polite staff. I recommend!
The food is excellent. However as a tourist it’s a rip off. They charge more than indicated and treat you without any respect.
Great selection,very good value for money
Restaurante Lebeche
| Address | C. Turín, 5, 30319 Cartagena, Murcia |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 1:00 – 4:00 PM, 8:00 – 11:00 PM Friday: 1:00 – 4:00 PM, 8:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 1:00 – 4:00 PM, 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 1:00 – 5:00 PM, 8:00 – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | 868 24 92 66 |
Our first visit to Le Beche. We arrived around 9:00 p.m. on a Thursday evening and were the first guests. It was a quiet night, but we were seated alone in one section of the restaurant, while a few other tables were seated in another area. It's a small detail, but we think seating everyone together would have created a warmer and more enjoyable atmosphere.
The service was friendly and efficient, and the food was excellent. Everything was beautifully presented, and the quality of the ingredients was very good.
A place worth remembering, we'll be back!
Great food and dining! Beef croquette and sirloin were delicious. Tony provided great service and even speaks English and French
-Authentic Gastronomic Experience at Lebeché-
Visiting Lebeché was a memorable experience. We started with a variety of appetizers, including a seafood salad with bluefin tuna, a seafood platter, ribeye steak croquettes, Lebeché-style octopus, Segureño lamb bao buns, and Iberian pork tataki. Each dish stood out for its flavor and presentation; especially the tataki and the octopus, which were cooked to perfection and very tasty.
For our main course, we tried octopus and cuttlefish rice, served in a generous portion with a creamy texture and well-seasoned, accompanied by a touch of roasted pepper that balanced the flavor. It was so delicious that we ordered three more portions to take home.
The service was excellent, friendly, and efficient. Noemí was particularly helpful. She was always able to advise us and adapt certain dishes to accommodate my wife's intolerance to milk and dairy products. The restaurant is spacious and comfortable, ideal for enjoying your meal at your leisure. The wines we chose, Finca Resalto, perfectly complemented the food.
Overall, Lebeché offers cuisine that combines tradition and quality, particularly excelling in fish, rice dishes, and select meats. Highly recommended for those seeking a refined gastronomic experience in Cartagena.
We returned within a few days.
We went to this restaurant after seeing several recommendations on Instagram and checking the reviews on Google, which were generally very positive. The truth is, the experience was good and the food was excellent.
The waiter who served us was very professional and attentive, and his recommendations and service throughout the meal were spot on. We were also very impressed by his recommendation of the local wine.
Among the dishes we tried, the artichoke with foie gras was a true spectacle, one of those dishes you remember long after the meal is over. The desserts were also top-notch; both the French toast and the red fruit puff pastry were delicious and the kind of desserts you never get tired of eating.
However, there was one aspect that left us with a bittersweet feeling. We don't like it when a restaurant offers daily specials or off-menu items without clearly stating the prices. We understand that prices may vary depending on the product, but we believe there should be some indication of the cost, whether on a chalkboard, a menu, or through a prior explanation. We ordered two off-menu dishes, and the surprise came when the bill arrived. The price seemed quite high for the portion size and the quality, which, while good, wasn't exceptional.
We also ordered an octopus rice dish that was tasty, although the amount of octopus was rather small considering the price. Furthermore, we noticed that some prices were higher than those we had seen online.
We don't want this to be interpreted as a negative review because, overall, we enjoyed the food and the service. However, we do believe that the value for money fell short of the expectations raised by so many recommendations. Sometimes it seems that some restaurants, when they gain popularity on social media, raise their prices more than the experience truly justifies.
In short, we ate well, received excellent service, and enjoyed several memorable dishes, but the final bill seemed too high for what we actually ate.
The food was delicious, I loved the artichokes and the cheesecake 🤤. The place is nice and not too crowded, even though it was a weekday. A quiet spot with good, soft background music. The service was also very good; the waiter was very attentive and friendly.
Restaurante Fuerte del Pastelillo
| Address | Fuerte San Sebastián del Pastelillo, Manga, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | 318 2579914 |
This was the best meal I’ve had in Cartegena! The quiet atmosphere was perfect for a nice evening with family. All of the food was prepared to perfection. I had the sea bass paired with a white wine. The music set the perfect tone for a romantic evening. Service was perfect.
The food and atmosphere was fantastic. I recommend coming here, you will not be disappointed. I proposed at the dinner, the staff helped with video, photos and were overall very friendly. Thank you for making our engagement dinner special!
What a truly magical night! My boyfriend (now fiancé) brought me here for a romantic dinner. We walk in and are led to a private table in a cannon bed. Truly amazing! They had laid our roses and candles! And they were very friendly about the fact that we were gay! No judgement at all! The food was INCREDIBLE! And we got to watch sunset and enjoy the party boats passing by. It was like having our own private waterfront room! Easily the best thing we did in Cartagena! If you’re looking to propose or host something special, this is the best spot in Cartagena!
A wonderful start to our Cartagena visit!
Lovely food, beautifully presented dishes. Romantic atmosphere with a live band playing boleros. Courteous service. And the view...
Absolutely recommended.
Absolutely wonderful. Great staff with great attention to detail. We made a reservation online and everything went smoothly. Food was so delicious. The table we reserved for couples was beautifully placed in front of the bay. Next we visit, we will definitely stop here again. Thank you!
Restaurante Mar De Las Antillas
| Address | Cl Larga #8B-26, Getsemaní, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
Mar de Las Antillas was one of the highlights of our trip to Cartagena! The seafood was incredibly fresh, perfectly cooked, and full of authentic Caribbean flavor. We ordered the grilled fish and crab, and every dish exceeded our expectations. The portions were generous, and everything tasted fresh and delicious.
The service was excellent, and the staff was patient and welcoming, making us feel comfortable even though we don’t speak Spanish. The atmosphere was vibrant, relaxing, and perfect for enjoying a great meal.
If you’re visiting Cartagena and looking for outstanding seafood, Mar de Las Antillas is a must-visit. We highly recommend it and will definitely return on our next trip!
They have a beautiful establishment with seafood as the theme of the decor. It's an actual seafood restaurant as well. They have live music that just makes you wanna dance the whole time you're there. We ordered the lobsters both tine we went there with the garlic sauce and rice. It's delicious 😋. The size of the lobster although advertised as different with different prices, didn't look any different to us at all. The 900gram lobster looked the same as the 600gram one. I don't know how that can be so maybe be careful on that. Other than that, great drinks, great food, great atmosphere.
Delicious food and very generous portions! Everything was fresh and full of flavor, and despite the large servings, we enjoyed every bite and finished it all. The staff were incredibly friendly, welcoming, and helpful, especially Leimar, who made our visit even more enjoyable with excellent service. Highly recommended!
I got recommended this place by a Colombian. It was phenomenal. The service was 10/10. Alex and Luis were very attentive and worked together as a team. The food was fresh and so yummy. We had the seafood platter, the pasta with shrimp and the rice with seafood as well as the steak with rice. It was so good. The atmosphere is very picturesque as well! I recommend 10/10.
Great food and wonderful service. Alexander was my server and he was very attentive and answered my questions. I had the cazuela de mariscos (seafood stew) that came with coconut rice and plantains. The coconut rice is the best coconut rice I have ever had. It is worth the trip alone! The stew was filled with a variety of seafood and the portions are huge. I also had a coconut lemonade which is so refreshing.
The restaurant is beautiful, you feel like you're under the sea with colorful fish and a sea of fish on the TV. I can see why the reviews are so great!
Buena Vibra
| Address | C. Carmen, 10, bajo, 30300 Cartagena, Murcia |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 7:00 – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 7:00 – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 7:00 – 11:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 7:00 – 11:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 7:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 7:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 7:00 – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | 617 78 68 11 |
Lovely food, lots of selection, food for every taste. Easy to get a table as you can sit down and they will come serve you. Great atmosphere and you can sit outside on the street when it’s warm. Service was great. Definitely recommend for drinks or dinner alone or as a group
Such a lovely place to have a breakfast and some coffee. They have a great food selection and it was very delicious!
Excellent service and delicious sea food!
Good espresso!
Recommend this really good place!!
P.S.
There is a nice variety of Ukrainian dishes in the menu👍
Lovely place, food was great although I wish the toast wasn’t done as much as it was (personal preference)
Anna is very friendly and really take care of us. Really nice food and service.
Very recommended to visit here
Tips for Ordering Seafood in Cartagena
Before you pull up a chair and tie on a bib, it helps to understand the local rhythm of dining. Ordering seafood in Cartagena is slightly different than ordering in other parts of Spain, and knowing the local customs will ensure you get the best possible plate at the best possible price.
First, embrace the late lunch. The Spanish dining schedule is famous, but it is also practical in the summer heat. The best local restaurants will not open their kitchens for lunch until 1:30 PM at the earliest, with the prime dining rush happening between 2:30 PM and 3:30 PM. If you arrive at noon looking for a meal, you will likely be turned away or offered only a coffee. Adjust your schedule to eat with the locals, and you will experience the restaurants at their most vibrant and generous.
Second, always ask for the fuera de carta (off-menu) options. While many restaurants have printed menus, the true treasures are often written on a chalkboard or simply recited by the waiter. This is where you will find the truly special catches of the day—perhaps a wild rodaballo (turbot) or a specific rockfish that was landed just hours ago. Do not be afraid to ask, "¿Qué tenéis de fuera de carta?" It signals that you are a serious eater, not just a tourist.
Third, understand the pricing structure for shellfish. In Cartagena, prawns, lobsters, and langoustines are almost always priced by weight, not by portion. The menu will list a price per kilogram (or per 100 grams). This can be intimidating if you are not used to it, but it is standard practice. A good waiter will bring the live or raw product to your table to show you before cooking it and will confirm the weight and price. If you are on a budget, ask for a half portion (media ración) or simply opt for a fixed-price rice dish instead.
Fourth, do not skip the "ugly" fish. While most tourists gravitate toward salmon or cod, the Mediterranean offers a wealth of delicious local species that are far more sustainable and flavorful. Look for names like sargo, salmonete (red mullet), or brótola. These are the fish that locals order, and they are often the freshest items in the case because they are caught locally and turn over quickly.
Finally, pair your meal with the local wine. While Galician Albariño is famous throughout Spain for seafood, Cartagena sits close to the Jumilla wine region, which produces exceptional Monastrell reds. However, for seafood, look for the crisp whites and rosés produced in the nearby Bullas DO or ask for a local vino de la tierra. A chilled glass of local Macabeo or a dry rosé will cut through the richness of fried fish and complement the briny sweetness of the prawns far better than an imported cocktail.
The beauty of dining in Cartagena lies in its lack of pretense. You can spend a fortune on a lavish seafood tower, or you can sit at a worn wooden bar with a plate of grilled sardines and a cold beer, and both experiences will feel equally authentic. The common denominator is the product—pulled from the sea that morning, treated with respect, and served with pride.
As you wander the streets between the Roman theater and the port, let your nose guide you. The scent of smoking wood, garlic, and sea salt is the city’s invitation to sit down and stay awhile. In Cartagena, the sea is never more than a fork’s length away, and every meal is a reminder of why this harbor has been a culinary anchor for centuries.
