Bogotá is the starting point for many Colombian adventure trips and many travelers view it simply as a layover. But the city has become a thriving epicenter of international and Colombian culture, and the home of several festivals celebrating art, music, and food. For the lover of epicurean delights, the Alimentarte Gourmet Food Festival is a feast of flavors, with chefs participating from around the world. Held annually in August, this festival takes place over two weekends in the lush and beautiful El Virrey park, with hundreds of food stalls.
Growing prestige and popularity
The festival was founded 15 years ago and continues to grow in prestige and fame, drawing more top chefs, bakers, and restaurants each year. The popularity and quality of this event lands Bogotá firmly on the map as a cosmopolitan destination for food-lovers everywhere. The goal of the festival is to promote the diverse and delightful cuisine of Colombia, as well as the growth of international food available in Bogotá. This family-friendly event also raises money for the support of families of Colombian police officers who were killed in the line of duty, organized by the nonprofit Corazon Verde. Is there anything better than eating delicious food for a good cause?
Mundo con Boca
The first weekend of the festival, known as Mundo con Boca, focuses on the international cuisine of an "invited" country. Past highlighted nations have included Spain and Italy, and the 2017 Alimentarte festival will feature France. Renowned Colombian restaurants, which specialize in French cuisine, will be on display and offering tantalizing appetizers, hearty meals, and scrumptious desserts. Additionally, there is an event called the "Restaurant Tour," in which international chefs, alongside local chefs, prepare a 5-course meal, alternating dishes, and allowing patrons to compare the techniques and flavor profiles of a variety of gourmet-level masters.
Colombia Sí Sabe
The second weekend focuses on the regional variety and unique flavors of Colombian cuisine. Attendees can expect to sample traditional fare, such as bandeja paisa (beef, chorizo, rice and beans), ternera a la llanera (skewered veal cooked on an open flame), and pescado frito con platano (fried fish and plantains). Other traditional Colombian delights can be found in nearly every stall, so bring a big appetite. You might want to share dishes with a friend or two; the bandeja paisa is enough to fill several people up! Colombian chefs really have an opportunity to shine with their local flavors, and visiting chefs are challenged with new varieties of cuisine.
Panels and lectures
Not just a street fair with delicious food, Alimentarte also boasts an academic forum, including lectures and panels made up of top chefs and other gourmets. Some of the topics include how Colombia's food compares to other countries, and the science and technique of cooking. Previous speakers have included Andoni Luis Aduriz of Spain, Roy Caceres of Italy, and Gaston Acurio from Peru. These academic events are usually held on the Wednesday between weekends, acting as a bridge of the main food events.
Get a taste of Colombia
The event is free to attend, but coupons for food must be purchased at ticket booths around the festival. The food stalls will not accept cash, so make sure to get the vouchers, which can be combined for more expensive meals. Prices for food vary, but you can expect a full meal to be around 20,000 pesos, and dessert around 7,000 pesos. This event is one-of-a kind and the perfect opportunity to sample not only traditional Colombian cuisine, but some of the best food from around the globe, all while taking in the sights of beautiful Bogota. Many of Uncharted Colombia's adventure tours start and end in Bogota, making it the perfect excuse to explore this unique event. Colombia is waiting.