Raised in a restaurant and passing weekends at vibrant markets, chef Andrés Becerra
honed his skills in Michelin-starred kitchens across Melbourne, Copenhagen and
Barcelona. In 2022, he took the bold, layered flavours and traditions of Colombia
to Bali at Santanera, a dining experience shaped by a lifetime of places, people
and kitchens. For our inaugural Destination Guide, he shares a few spots that make
Bogotá so memorable.
Where to stay
Stay
The Colombian capital has a wealth of options for visitors, catering to any and
all tastes. Stellar options for urban discovery include the contemporary Click
Clack Hotel, balancing funky cool with personalised luxury, and the stalwart Four
Seasons Casa Medina, which puts a modern spin on artist and architect Santiago
Medina Mejia’s 1940s design.
Where to eat
Eat
Bogotá is intense in the best way. High-altitude air, dramatic weather shifts,
loud markets, long lunches, and food that’s meant to be shared; this city taught
me how to eat.
I grew up in Casabrava, my family’s restaurant, which was built around traditional
Colombian parrilla. This isn’t just grilling; it’s fire, smoke, patience
and conversation. If my family is around, talk to them.
And one of the best restaurants in modern Zone G or T is El Chato. It changed how
Bogotá saw itself on the global dining stage.
Where to go out
Dance
Say yes to the chaos.
You don’t come to Andrés Carne de Res just for dinner, but for the whole
experience. Bohemian, colourful and loud, the place transforms into a nightclub
after traditional Colombian dinners.
Everyone drinks aguardiente, Colombia’s famously strong local spirit,
dances and laughs. What makes it a whole experience is that somehow, at 3am,
bowls of soup are served to revive everyone before heading home.
What to bring home
Shop
Paloquemao Market is the heart of Colombian food. On weekends, I’d come early and
weave through endless stalls stacked with fruits you’ve never seen, herbs sold by
handfuls and abuelas shouting prices across the aisles. It’s loud, chaotic, alive
and overwhelming in the best way. Bring cash.
When it comes to coffee, Colombian beans hold a special place in my heart. On my
last trip home I brought back a special Cisne Negro from Café San Alberto, the
kind of coffee that makes you slow down and truly pay attention.
Where to slow down
Chill
For a relaxed but lively day and night out with friends, head to Parque de la 93.
Start slowly with a stroll in the park before moving on to the surrounding bars
and clubs.
Everything is within walking distance, making bar hopping effortless. The Bogotá
Beer Company is a great place to begin, with a strong selection of local craft
beers before moving to higher ABV drinks.
And if aguardiente enters the mix, remember to take it easy.
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