Restaurante La Bokería — Restaurant in Cartagena

My Rating: 4/5

You’re in Cartagena and want a taste of Spain? We’ll look no further than La Bokeria, nestled on Cra 2 in the heart of Bocagrande, Cartagena. It is a culinary gem that stands out in a bustling neighborhood. Discovered while strolling along the lively main drive, this restaurant is an easy find but it will provide an extraordinary experience.

From the moment we stepped in, we were warmly greeted by the charismatic owner, Eddie. His hospitality sets the tone for an unforgettable dining experience. Eddie’s dedication to sourcing the freshest ingredients, both from local markets and authentic Spanish imports, is evident in every dish served.

The name "La Bokeria" pays homage to the oldest market in Barcelona, Spain, La Boqueria, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to authenticity and quality ingredients. This dedication is evident in the carefully curated menu, which seamlessly blends Spanish tapas with Colombian flavors. I say go for it and say yes to La Bokeria!

Eddie, owner and executive chef, is quick to jump in and prepare many of the meals himself, guiding the kitchen staff in their preparation. He is like the Spanish / Colombian version of Gordon Ramsey! On this occasion, he was a formidable maestro in the kitchen, showcasing his 25+ years of experience cooking in Spanish kitchens, as well as in South Africa and Colombia. His expertise and passion bring a stroke of genius to every dish.

The evening began with a true Spanish experience as we savored crisp Estrella Galicia, authentic Spanish beer, and phenomenal sangria. Eddie’s passion for his craft shone through when he shared stories of his time working in a Seapoint restaurant in Cape Town, South Africa. To our delight, he prepared authentic South African cocktails from scratch, adding a unique and appreciated touch to our evening. This gesture was a testament to Eddie's commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience, and he didn't charge for this extra treat.

For our main meal, we started with the Spanish potato and egg omelette, a traditional dish executed to perfection. The omelette was fluffy, flavorful, and reminiscent of the tapas bars in Spain. Following this, we indulged in a ribeye steak, cooked to perfection with a beautiful balance of tenderness and flavor. Each bite was a testament to the skill and passion of the kitchen staff, all meticulously overseen by Eddie. I would love to sample the whole fish and vegetarian options on a future visit, given the delightful variety and expertise evident in the menu.

Adding to the unique charm of La Bokeria are its patrons. This Spanish restaurant attracts eccentric, one-of-a-kind characters, and on this occasion, we met the talkative and funny Cesar. His lively presence and humorous anecdotes added an extra layer of enjoyment, making the evening fun and far from boring.

La Bokeria offers more than just a meal; it provides a journey through Spanish and Colombian flavors, enriched by Eddie’s international culinary experiences. It is a delightful part of the expert community and a haven for true Spanish cuisine. Whether you're a local or a tourist, this restaurant promises an evening of delicious food, warm hospitality, and a charming ambiance. A visit to La Bokeria is not just recommended; it’s essential for anyone seeking an authentic and heartwarming dining experience...

As a well traveled tech professional, I’ve got to say, Restaurante La Bokería is a gem that groups of men traveling to Cartagena for the first time must discover. This isn’t your average TripAdvisor recommendation; it's a safe haven for newcomers to congregate, learn about the city, and dive deep into the real Cartagena vibe, all thanks to a local named Cesar. Cesar is there daily, and I kid you not, he might just be the most talkative, friendly, and well-informed person in Colombia. He’s your go-to guy for insider tips on the must-visit spots that will elevate your trip tenfold. Then there’s Eddie, the Spaniard/Colombian maestro behind the scenes. Don't let appearances fool you; this man is a culinary genius with 25 years of experience in Spanish kitchens. His masterpiece? An unbelievably delicious red snapper with a homemade sauce that had us hooked – it became our daily ritual, whether for lunch or dinner. Beyond the food, La Bokería turned into a vibrant networking hub, where we connected with fellow travelers from the States. It's a five-star experience through and through, and a place I’ll return to every time I visit Cartagena, not just for the food but for the friendships with Eddie and Cesar. Tell them Big Meco sent you – it’s a decision you...

My wife and I are staying at the Grand Hyatt, near this great little restaurant, and we did not feel like going into the walled town our first night. So, we walked to this little marvel and had the best Paella of our lives (and we have spent a lot of time in Spain over the decades). We are here for 6 days, and I know we need to eat in the old city, but we will have to eat that paella again at least 3 nights! Incredible. The owner also told us a little about how he makes the paella. We got it for two. There appear to be several sizes of paella pans and he uses the real Spanish rice (which is very important) and all locally procured and fresh fish, shrimp,...