Cazuelas de Mi Tierra

[Update: I learned this restaurant closed a few days before the post was published.]

Earlier this year, two readers reached out to me around the same time about meeting up.

Britany Robinson was a travel blogger passing through Medellin, and Ben, was a new arrival looking to start teaching English in the city.

To quote Ben’s email, “Your blog was half the reason I chose Medellin.”

I suggested the three of us meet for a Colombian lunch at Cazuelas de Mi Tierra, located in Parque Lleras.

[Note: I’m always up for meeting readers, which is why more recently I’ve begun the biweekly meet-ups as it’s easier than meeting everyone individually.]

After a little confusion finding the place (I’d given them the old address at the Diez Hotel, a few blocks away), we settled into a table during a bustling lunch service.

The interior walls are made of plywood, which at once gives the space an unfinished, yet rustic look. It was different. I liked it.

At the front of the restaurant, up a half flight of stairs, is a small dining area overlooking the street. The back features a little outdoor patio with another table or two.

We sat in the middle, near the entrance, as seen in the photo above.

In terms of visibility, the new location can’t be beat. It’s just a half block from The Charlee Hotel, Juan Valdez Cafe, and Parque Lleras.

Cazuela literally translates as “casserole” but this authentic Colombian dish is more akin to a stew, as I’d soon find out.

But first, we all received small salads as part of our main course.

I’d ordered a chicken and mushroom cazuela. Britany and Ben ordered to other types, which I’m afraid I can’t remember.

They’re available in all sorts of combinations, including meat and fish, though there were only one or two options with chicken.

Each cazuela is presented in a small casserole bowl featuring the restaurants name, along with a few slices of buttered bread for dipping.

As for the cazuela itself, the consistency was more like that of soup or stew than casserole as I’ve always known it in the United States.

Overall, I enjoyed our lunch at Cazuelas de Mi Tierra, and would certainly recommend it for those seeking to discover authentic Colombian dishes.

The location is incredibly convenient for first time visitors, who are likely staying in or around Parque Lleras, and the service was prompt and friendly.

[Update: I learned this restaurant closed a few days before the post was published.]

Like the story? Take a second to support Medellin Living on Patreon!