An Insider’s Guide to Bogotá’s Cozy Culinary Delight: Ajiaco

If Bogotá had a single dish that carried its memory, weather, and warmth in one spoonful, it would be ajiaco. It’s the kind of soup that feels like a hug on a chilly Andean afternoon — silky from three varieties of potato, aromatic with guascas (a local herb), studded with tender chicken, and finished with the perfect contrast of corn, capers, and cream. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for the tenth time, ajiaco is one of those meals you *need* to experience to really understand the rhythm of the city.

Part of its charm is how personal it is. Every restaurant — and every Bogotá grandmother — swears theirs is the proper way. Some recipes lean creamy, others brothy; some are heavy on guascas, others more delicate. And that’s exactly what makes trying ajiaco around the city so fun: each bowl tells a different story.

Below, we share the spots where we’ve had memorable bowls — from classic institutions to modern Colombian kitchens.

What Makes a Great Ajiaco?

A truly standout ajiaco balances texture, aroma, and nostalgia. The papa criolla dissolves into a natural creaminess, while the sabanera and pastusa potatoes keep the soup hearty. Guascas add that unmistakable herbal note that only Bogotá gets right, and the slow cooking allows the broth to deepen naturally without feeling heavy.

Some restaurants stick to the centuries-old formula; others update the dish with lighter broths, more elegant plating, or richer textures. Both approaches can shine — the magic is when the bowl feels comforting without being one-note, with all the toppings (cream, capers, cilantro, and avocado) playing their supporting roles.

Now, here’s where we’ve found the best versions across the city.

The 12 Top Places for Ajiaco in Bogotá

Restaurante La Herencia

La Herencia is one of those places that seems to always deliver exactly what you’re craving — especially when what you want is a proper Bogotá classic served without fuss. Their ajiaco arrives steaming, generously portioned, and deeply flavored. The broth is rich but not overly thick, and you can tell it’s been simmering patiently the way traditional kitchens do. The chicken comes tender and plentiful, the guascas are fragrant, and the potatoes break down into a creamy base without turning the soup mushy.

We particularly love how the accompaniments come perfectly portioned: fresh cream, house-made capers, and a slice of perfectly ripe avocado. It’s the kind of ajiaco that makes you slow down and enjoy every spoonful.

What we’d change: The dining room can get busy at peak lunchtime; a reservation is helpful but not always honored promptly.

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Restaurante Juan Chorizo

Juan Chorizo is better known for grilled meats, but their ajiaco is a quiet standout — creamy, comforting, and well-balanced. It leans slightly silkier than the strictly traditional version, giving it a modern appeal without losing the soul of the dish. The flavors layer nicely: the broth tastes homemade, the chicken is shredded perfectly, and the portion of potatoes gives the soup a satisfying body without making it too heavy.

The ambiance is polished without being pretentious, making it a great stop after exploring Parque 93. Service is friendly and fast, which is a plus if you’re touring the area and trying to fit multiple experiences into your afternoon.

What we’d change: Some bowls arrive with lighter seasoning; asking for extra guascas can help.

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La Antigua Comida Típica Colombiana

La Antigua is one of those restaurants that feels like walking into an extended family kitchen — warm, slow-paced, deeply nostalgic. Their ajiaco is straightforward and old-school, with no unnecessary updates or embellishments. Expect a lighter broth with very traditional potato texture and a clean, herbal aroma from the guascas. It’s the kind of bowl that reminds you why ajiaco became a national favorite in the first place.

This is a great stop if you’re exploring Usaquén or simply want an unpretentious, delicious, Bogotá-style meal.

What we’d change: The portions could be a bit more generous, especially compared to others on this list.

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Compañía Criolla

Compañía Criolla is a beautifully designed space that pays tribute to Colombian ingredients while giving them an elegant, contemporary twist. Their ajiaco reflects that philosophy: bold flavor, velvety texture, and just elevated enough to feel special. The plating is refined, but the bowl still tastes like a Bogotá classic — deeply savory with a satisfying potato base.

If you want a version of ajiaco that feels like it belongs in a stylish dinner setting without losing its homestyle heart, this is your spot.

What we’d change: Prices are on the higher end; worth it for the experience, but something to keep in mind.

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La Vieja Antioquia

La Vieja Antioquia is known for hearty portions and comforting Colombian staples, and their ajiaco fits right in. Expect a generous bowl with a well-seasoned broth and plenty of potatoes and chicken. The texture strikes a nice balance — creamy but not overly thick — making it satisfying without feeling too heavy.

It’s especially popular with families, so there’s a lively, easygoing atmosphere that makes long lunches feel natural.

What we’d change: The corn can occasionally be slightly overcooked; results vary depending on the day’s batch.

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Cazuelitas 93

Cazuelitas 93 serves a modern interpretation of Colombian favorites, and their ajiaco reflects that style: lighter broth, cleaner finish, and a refined visual presentation. The potatoes melt softly into the soup without turning it dense, and the seasoning is delicate but flavorful. It’s an excellent option if traditional ajiacos sometimes feel too heavy for you.

The setting near Parque 93 also makes it a great stop for travelers looking for a fresh, contemporary dining experience.

What we’d change: Some diners may find it a bit too light; traditionalists might prefer a heartier version.

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Seratta Gourmand

Seratta brings fine dining finesse to Colombian cuisine, and their ajiaco is one of the most elegant versions in the city. Expect a rich, deeply flavored broth with exceptional attention to detail — the potatoes are precisely cooked, the corn beautifully sweet, and the chicken tender without being stringy. The guascas are aromatic but never overpowering.

This is the bowl you choose when you want to experience ajiaco as a culinary showcase rather than just comfort food.

What we’d change: It’s among the priciest ajiacos in town — more of a special-occasion stop.

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Sopas y Sopitas

Sometimes the best ajiacos come from humble, soup-focused spots — and Sopas y Sopitas proves the point beautifully. Their bowl is thick, well-seasoned, and loaded with chicken and potatoes. It’s the kind of no-nonsense ajiaco that tastes like someone’s grandmother made it, but you can get it in under 10 minutes.

It’s a favorite among office workers, students, and anyone craving something warm, cheap, and delicious.

What we’d change: The space is casual and small; not ideal for long or slow meals.

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Restaurante El Frijol In

El Frijol In isn’t a flashy spot, but it doesn’t need to be. Their ajiaco is consistently well-seasoned, with particularly good corn and a broth that has real depth. It hits all the traditional notes — nothing more, nothing less — which is exactly what makes it a reliable go-to for locals.

It’s especially good for travelers staying in the Chicó or Nogal area who want a comforting lunch nearby.

What we’d change: The presentation can be a bit rustic, but the flavor more than makes up for it.

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Restaurante Sopas de la Tierrita

As the name suggests, soups are the star here — and their ajiaco is one of the most consistently good. The seasoning is balanced, the potatoes are cooked to the perfect point of softness, and the toppings come generous. It’s a great in-between version: not too thick, not too light.

What we’d change: The dining room can feel cafeteria-like during busy hours.

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Las Margaritas

Las Margaritas is where generations of locals go for traditional Bogotá cooking, and the ajiaco is a beautiful representation of that heritage. The broth is soulful, the chicken tender, and the potatoes perfectly integrated. It’s a family-friendly, deeply authentic experience.

What we’d change: The décor feels old-fashioned — charming to some, dated to others.

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El Pórtico

El Pórtico is a beloved weekend destination — wooden beams, sprawling grounds, and that unmistakable countryside warmth. Their ajiaco mirrors the setting: rustic, hearty, and soul-soothing. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting a break from the city center.

What we’d change: Weekend wait times can run long, so going early is wise.

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Insider Tips for Ordering Ajiaco in Bogotá

• Lunchtime is peak time — go before 12:30 or after 2 p.m. for a quieter experience.
• Don’t be shy with toppings: more capers = brighter flavor; more cream = richer texture.
• Avocado is a must — the contrast makes the dish.
• Ajiaco pairs beautifully with aguapanela, lulada, or fresh jugo de mora.
• For delivery, thicker versions travel better; lighter broths tend to separate.

Final Recommendations — Where to Start

If you only have time for a few stops:

• For traditional Bogotá warmth: La Herencia or Las Margaritas
• For countryside charm: El Pórtico
• For a modern spin: Seratta or Compañía Criolla
• For amazing value: Sopas y Sopitas

Plan Your Food-Lover’s Bogotá Adventure with Cielo Travel

Ready to taste Bogotá one warm, comforting bowl at a time? Our team at Cielo Travel builds personalized, food-focused itineraries that help you discover the city’s most authentic flavors — from iconic ajiaco spots to tucked-away neighborhood gems, vibrant markets, and unforgettable culinary experiences across the capital.

If you want a Bogotá trip shaped around great meals, local insight, and experiences you won’t find in guidebooks, we’d love to help you plan it.