Where to eat in Colonia del Sacramento

Whether you're taking a day trip to Colonia from Buenos Aires or from Montevideo, or are spending a few days exploring this pretty colonial town, there are plenty of great restaurants where to eat in Colonia to spend a great time and keep your stomach full.

Colonia del Sacramento isn’t the cheapest town, however, thanks to its booming tourism industry, with visitors arriving in boatloads from across the river. Rather than just wandering into the first restaurant you see when hunger strikes, make sure you get a good meal for your money by following our advice for tried-and-tested restaurants in Colonia.

Where to eat in Colonia: 8 restaurants to eat well

1. Charco

Charco is a hotel with an excellent Bistro located on a quiet street in the historic downtown area. This is a wonderful spot for a quiet breakfast, tasty lunch or delicious dinner. The menu is extensive and the service is excellent. The restaurant is modern and chic, considered by the locas as one of the top places where to eat in Colonia with a great view over the river, and a terrace outside for sunny days.
Address: San Pedro 116

Enjoy an exquisite meal at the beautiful Charco Bistro / Source

2. Buen Suspiro

Located on the most emblematic street of Colonia, Calle de los Suspiros (Street of Sighs), Buen Suspiro is an old tavern that provides a traditional experience in Colonia. The cosy interior is especially wonderful on a cold winter’s day or a crisp autumn evening. Come here for a cheese and charcuterie board and a glass of wine for lunch or dinner. Buen Suspiro also has a shop selling homemade food products.
Address: Calle de los Suspiros 90

Duck into the cosy and traditional Buen Suspiro for wine and a cheese platter / Photo: Daytours4u

3. Los Farolitos

A little stand, with plastic chairs, looking like any typical hole-in-the-wall fast food joint, Los Farolitos is Colonia institution for those in the know. Don’t be put off by its initial appearance - this is the place where to eat in Colonia if you decided to go to for a Chivito. You can also get great hamburgers and panchos (hot dogs) here. While not located in the historic quarter, it’s just a short walk from the tourist spots along one of the main roads.
Address: Av. General Flores 272

4. Restaurant del Ferrocarril

If you’re looking for a different experience, why not dine in an old train? Restaurant del Ferrocarril (The Railroad Restaurant) is located next to Plaza de Toros, the abandoned Bull Ring. After wandering through the Railway Museum, settle into the old dining car for a delicious lunch or a romantic dinner. The food here is worth the visit to this side of the city.
Address: Circunvalacion Plaza de Toros

Fine dining in style at Restaurant del Ferrocarril / Source

5.Viejo Barrio

Viejo Barrio immediately catches your eye on the central cobblestone courtyard by the lighthouse, with its warm colours. It’s a great spot for a laid back meal. Be sure to try their homemade pasta.
Address: Vasconcellos 169

6. La Pulperia de los Faroles

If you’re looking for international cuisine in a good location, then head to La Pulperia de los Faroles. The prices are not the cheapest, but it offers a solid meal option in the charming main plaza of the historic quarter.
Address: Misiones de los Tapes 101

You can't miss the pink building of Pulperia de los Faroles

7. El Drugstore

Right next door to Viejo Barrio you’ll find the wonderfully eclectic El Drugstore. Not a drugstore, this quirkily decorated restaurant serves up a variety of tapas and other meals. On weekends, there is live music here. When you see the old cars with tables inside, and plants growing out of them, you'll know you're in the right place!
Address: Corner of Portugal and Vasconcellos

Chefs at work inside the quirky El Drugstore / Source

8. Don Joaquin

While you may feel inclined to stick to Uruguayan classics such as chivito, asado (barbecue), or fresh seafood, sometimes you just need to give into a pizza craving. Luckily Colonia is home to Don Joaquin. Serving delicious artisanal pizza and buena onda (good vibes), this is a great dinner option.
Address: 18 de Julio 267

Enjoy a delicious pizza at Don Joaquin / Source

For trendy foodies:

- Gitana Gastrobar: with a great view to the River, this bistró has a wonderful view to chill out and spend a lovely sunny afternoon. Their menu is an example of the evolution of local uruguayan gastronomy.
Address: Misiones de los Tapes 41

- Miss Fusion Colonia:  a gastro pub that integrates art and culture. In their art gallery next to the restaurant, they often have exhibitions and concerts. Their dining room offers an intimate setting perfect to try their great menu alongside author cocktails, craft beer and the best uruguayan wine.
Address: Manuel Lobo 449 esquina Alberto Mendez

Tips On Eating Out in Colonia:

• Many places do not take credit card. Some places accept foreign currency. We recommend checking what the payment options are before ordering.
• Since many restaurants cater to tourists and accept foreign currency, confirm the currency the menu is in. Remember that the Uruguayan Peso is usually marked with a $ while US Dollars are marked as USD.
• A standard tip at a restaurant is 10%. Check your bill to see whether it has been included or not.
• While the restaurants around the windmill on the coast of the historic quarter have spectacular views, they tend to be overpriced for the food they offer. They are, however, a great option for a drink at sunset.
• As you walk back out of the Historic Quarter towards the port, stop at Freddo for an ice cream. The perfect way to end a day in Colonia!

Eating is not the only thing to do in Colonia! Book your experiences in Colonia with Uruguay4u!

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By: Nicole Eberhard