Bihao — Restaurant in Medellín

I live just a stone's throw from this restaurant and passed it many times as it was being readied for its opening. A couple of nights ago I was ready to try it with my notoriously critical significant other, who is Colombian.

The restaurant is located at the bottom of a long public staircase that descends from Av. Poblado into Manila. At once we were struck by the softly glowing atmosphere and the comfortable surroundings. The service was immediately attentive and we began with signature cocktails which were creative and delicious, highlighting ingredients and flavors from around Colombia. We perused the menu's extensive descriptions (Spanish only and a challenge for those who don't speak the language. We recommended working on some English menus).

My companion suggested that we share an appetizer called "Canasta de Fritos" or basket of fried treats. Her reasoning was that it included many of the street foods with which we were already familiar and it would prove a good test for the chef's skill. She was correct and each piece was a delight; instead of a creative take which changed the nature of the food, everything was elevated by skilled preparation that raised the food above other versions. There was no hot sauce available but the chef prepared a fresh version that was creative and delicious. The girlfriend was shocked that she couldn't find a single criticism to voice.

The quality of the food continued through the main courses. I requested the coconut shrimp and rice and she the Colombian sourced fresh tuna which was paired with a rice shot through with the local pumpkin. We shared our plates and both were delicious.

We only had room for one dessert but we couldn't decide and had two, a freshly baked sweet almohabana and a creation the waiter described as kind of a Colombian cheesecake. Both were spectacular and nothing like we had ever had before.

Full to the gills, we nearly succumbed to heart failure as we climbed the long steep stairs and made our way home. We were excited that we had discover the best fine dining Colombian restaurant in town and that it was a five minute walk from our home. We hope to return again and again and make it our...

Pure hospitality and food made with love!

What an absolutely wonderful experience at Bihao Cocina Colombiana! From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with such warmth and genuine kindness that made me feel like family.

My waiter Brandon was absolutely exceptional - his service went far beyond what I could have expected. When I asked if they could possibly make me a soup, even though it wasn’t on the menu, Brandon didn’t hesitate for a second. He spoke with the kitchen and made it happen with such a genuine smile and enthusiasm.

You could truly taste the love and care that went into every spoonful - it was comfort in a bowl, prepared with such thoughtfulness and attention. Brandon checked on me throughout the meal, making sure everything was perfect.

This is what authentic Colombian hospitality looks like. Brandon and the entire team here don’t just serve food; they create experiences filled with heart and generosity. In a world where good service can be hard to find, Brandon and Bihao stand out as examples of what restaurants should be - a place where guests are treated with genuine care and where the passion for cooking shines through in every dish.

I’ll definitely be returning soon and asking for Brandon’s section. Thank you for such a memorable meal and for reminding me why I love discovering gems like this. ¡Mil...

Bihou in Medellín has earned my review and that of hundreds of other patrons. I enjoyed a birthday dinner with my brother - atmosphere is inviting, clean, and tranquil. It’s now among one of my favorite restaurants after 47 visits to Colombia.

I will highlight… • Brando, my server. He excelled in attentiveness and sincere friendliness. He returned to the table promptly to ensure we were satisfied with our food soon after we began eating. I later read other reviewers have the same sentiment about Brando.

• “Atún Encostrao” was a great choice for me. It’s a delicious seafood dish uniquely seasoned, mild in spiciness (how I like it, but if you prefer more spicy or salty, just ask). The fish is accompanied by a rich salad and potato criollas. The portion size was just right for me - I arrived hungry, and left satisfied (not stuffed).

My attached photo shows the dish after I began eating, sorry 😅

Location is in the Milan Barrio; very nice area with cafés, shops, restaurants. A four minute walk from the...