So.. the plan is that I eventually write longer reviews of each of these places. Also that I update this top 10.. whenever I visit a new worthy inclusion. But to begin.. it will be a list. They won't be any particular order. Stay tuned. (The * is the nearest site or plaza so you can ask directions easily)



LA PERLA Peruvian fusion in fresh-feeling space with killer pisco sours.
Calle de Ayos, Centro Historico (*Cathedral)

TABETAI World class sushi, small and funky interior.
Calle Segunda de Badillo, Centro Historico (*Parque Fernandez Madrid)

MAREA by RAUSCH Divine views thanks to waterside location - seafood specialists. Save space for dessert!
Centro Convenciones, Getsemani (*Convention Centre)

DON JUAN Deserved recipient of most people's "best restaurant in Cartagena" tag. An emphasis on treating quality ingredients simply with a largely Basque cooking style. Decor is polished bistro. Calle Colegio, Centro Historico (*Gobernacion building)

ANDANTE ALLEGRO VIVACE Fresher-than-fresh homemade pastas, and flavor-focused Italian classics in a tiny, romantic locale.
Calle de la Mantilla (*Plaza Santo Domingo)

MARIA Gorgeous interior design, mega-appealing menu and perfect for (beautiful) people watching. Cocktail list is just as enticing.
Calle Colegio, Centro Historico (*Gobernacion building)

CUZCO Tranquil surrounds, amazing ceviche, excellent staff, live music Thurs-Sun.
Calle Santo Domingo, Centro Historico  (*Plaza Santa Domingo)

DI SILVIO TRATTORIA Some of the best pizza you will eat in your life, served with life music Thurs-Sun inside a roof-less ruined shell of a historic building.
Calle de la Sierpe, Getsemani (*Plaza Trinidad)

KARIB A great way to sample local Cartagenan and Colombian flavours thanks to their 100gram "tapas" menu. The food and service and prices are great.. but sometimes you'll find yourselves as the only people in the restaurant.. which can affect the overall vibe.
Calle Larga, Getsemani (*Hotel Arsenal)

M COCINA Mmm.. a favourite amongst the host of Lebanese restaurants in Cartagena. Welcome to flavour-town. Bocagrande, Calle 6 (*Supermarket Olimpica 24h)

EL BOLICHE CEBICHERIA Getting props in all the right places.. this tiny space delivers amazing plates of mega freshness and flavour.
Calle Cochera del Hobo, San Diego/Centro Historico (*Parque Fernandez Madrid)