As many of you know, I like supporting small restaurants, street stands, and local shops, which are usually run by people who not only work hard to make a living but also do their best to show Colombia in the best way. Here, you’ll find some great recommendations for enjoying food or drinks at local places, with local people, for local prices.

Most of the shop owners I’m recommending here have spoken with me, and they’d be happy to know you came based on my suggestions, therefore feel free to mention that I sent you.

Location: Cra. 4 #17-37, Bogotá
Google Maps:  Emilio Gastrobar
Description: I met Emilio a few years ago during a celebration for the company I work for, and I found his place to be cozy, warm, welcoming, and consciously focused on good eating. Emilio not only puts care into preparing and serving his food, but also into choosing sustainable and mindful ingredients often highlighting vegetables in most dishes. 
There are delicious international and vegetarian options, but also he offers authentic Colombian dishes, like Ajiaco, the typical soup from Bogotá. I highly recommend trying their beers, especially the local ones, they go well with the food.

Location: Cl. 11 #6-30, La Candelaria, Bogotá (Besides Plaza de Bolivar)
Google Maps:  Puerta de la Tradición
Description: The restaurant is famous for preserving the rich flavors of traditional Santafereño (Bogotano) cuisine. It is the perfect place to warm up from the chilly Andean weather with a steaming bowl of Ajiaco (the city's signature potato and chicken soup) or a classic Bandeja Paisa.

Location: Cra. 5 #17-76, Santa Fé, Bogotá, Cundinamarca (Close to Gold Museum)
Google Maps:  Quiebracanto Candelaria
Description: The bar serves up ice-cold local beers, classic cocktails, and traditional Colombian spirits. Order a bottle of local Aguardiente to share with friends for the ultimate Colombian night out. Make sure to check their schedule before you visit, as weekends frequently feature spectacular live salsa bands that bring the entire house down.