Traslated by Andrés Martínez Forero
Explore and enjoy ‘Bogotá, My City, My Home’ One of the most cherished traditional recipes in Colombia’s capital is ajiaco santafereño. If you’re visiting Bogotá, tasting this flavorful soup—steeped in history and culture—is a must. Five of the city’s Public Markets proudly serve the best ajiaco in town, thanks to their time-honored recipes and rich culinary tradition. Discover them here, pay them a visit, and treat yourself to an unforgettable dish!
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The Mayor’s Office of Bogotá, the Institute for Social Economy (IPES), and the Bogotá Tourism Institute (IDT) celebrate the talented women who have turned the city’s markets into vibrant centers of culinary culture and tradition. If you’re in town, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a bowl of ajiaco.
Ajiaco santafereño traces its roots back to the Muisca people of the Andean highlands, who originally prepared it with native potatoes and corn. Over time, European influences introduced ingredients like chicken, cream, and capers, shaping the beloved dish we know today—now one of Bogotá’s most iconic and representative meals.
This hearty soup is more than just food—it’s a key part of Bogotá’s culinary memory and continues to enchant both residents and visitors.
Where to Eat Ajiaco in Bogotá’s Public Markets
Bogotá’s Public Markets are centers of culture, identity, and gastronomy—places where recipes preserve the soul of the city. These five markets are especially renowned for serving outstanding ajiaco:
- 12 de Octubre Market, calle 72 #39-62, Barrios Unidos.
- La Concordia Market, calle 14 #1-40, La Candelaria.
- La Perseverancia Market, carrera 5A #30-30, Santa Fe.
- 20 de Julio Market, carrera 6 #24-60 Sur, San Cristóbal.
- Las Ferias Market, calle 74B #69Q-35, Engativá.
Each market adds its own twist, showcasing the rich diversity of Bogotá’s flavors.
Women Making History with Bogotá’s Best Ajiaco
The Bogotá Tourism Institute’s annual Best Ajiaco Santafereño competition has spotlighted several standout chefs from the city’s markets:
- 2017 – La Perseverancia Market: Luz Dary Cogollo, “Mamá Luz,” became the first chef to be recognized in this competition.
- 2020 – La Concordia Market: Jackie Díaz, “Tía Jackie,” brought her traditional flavor to the heart of La Candelaria.
- 2022 – 20 de Julio Market: Alby Mireya López won in the Market category.
- 2023 – La Concordia Market: Luisa Barrios, from “Sabor Colombia,” reaffirmed the culinary strength of Bogotá’s markets.
IPES, the entity that manages the city’s Public Markets, actively promotes these culinary stories, strengthening the local economy and preserving gastronomic traditions.
“Each dish prepared in Bogotá’s markets is a reflection of our identity—from ajiaco, puchero, and chocolate santafereño to postre de natas. These signature flavors honor our history and the dedication of the women who remind us daily of our roots and our grandmothers’ traditions,” said Wilfredo Grajales Rosas, Director of IPES.
The Mayor’s Office of Bogotá, IPES, and the Bogotá Tourism Institute invite both locals and visitors to explore the city’s Public Markets and enjoy these traditional dishes that are part of the capital’s cultural and culinary richness.
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Discover more about well-known and hidden tourist spots by visiting the Bogotá Portal, under the “Tourism in Bogotá” section: https://bogota.gov.co/tag/turismo-en-bogota
Check out this video to explore some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, foods, cultural attractions, and natural landscapes. Bogotá sits at 2,600 meters above sea level—get a taste of what it has to offer and start planning your visit!
*This article was created using information provided by the Bogotá’s International Relations Office and curated by a journalist from Portal Bogotá. For suggestions, questions, or more information, visit Bogotá Te Escucha: https://bogota.gov.co/sdqs/
