Salon Malaga is an old-timey bar perfect for tango and bolero lovers. When setting foot in here, you’ll be able to travel back in time and feel like you are in one of those old days bohemian movies.

Are you curious about what you can find there? Then let me share an honest personal review about Salon Malaga with you.  Let’s get into it!

A Brief History of Salon Malaga 

This bastion of the musical tradition of yesteryear was born in 1957 and founded by Gustavo Arteaga. Its main objective was to cultivate popular music as an art. Art is enjoyed to the fullest regardless of age or social status.

Recently, this place has grown in popularity. A big reason for that is because many famous artists and music figures of yesteryear have graced the halls of the Salon.

One of the charms of Salon Malaga is the collection of photographs on permanent display. You can look at photos of Medellín in the first 50 years of the twentieth century. There have been glamorous artists who performed there. 

The Gold Record was awarded to Salon Malaga by CBS in 1968, in a competition in which it ranked first. Today, it’s a historical and cultural heritage of Medellin, where you can learn much more about history.

If that isn’t impressive enough, Gustavo Arteaga is one of the most important collectors of yesteryear music. He has a collection of 78 revolutions records with real musical jewels that are difficult to find anywhere else.

How to Get There

Public transportation is the best way to get there. This Salon is just a few steps from the San Antonio metro station (Route A). If you prefer to take the bus, you can take one of these:

• 133D
• C6E2
• M36
• T4 016

It is not simple to drive there since parking your car can be a bit tricky. The area in front of the venue is more pedestrian friendly and used for the EnCicla bike system. So if you skipped leg day, this one is in your favor.

Getting there by taking a rideshare app or taxi is also a good option. 

IG: @salon.malaga

Website:https://salonmalaga.com/

Address: Carrera 51 N° 45-80 San Antonio Metro Station

Events at Salon Malaga

Throughout the week, you can attend various events and activities. Expect to be treated to exquisite dance shows, meetings, and much more.

On their website, you can find the schedule of their events that are available every week. If you want to catch an event with top-rated artists, you should check their Instagram page. 

Now let’s see the events you can attend!

Tango Shows

Enjoy the best live performers every Saturday from 5:30 p.m. Tango is a frequent art in the Salon and is always accompanied by live music. Tango shows are the most popular events, so you better make your reservations for the shows beforehand. 

Tango is one of Arteaga’s favorite genres, so this place is one of the dance floors where the annual Medellín International Tango Festival takes place.

Events like this are also a meeting place for true connoisseurs of tango.  Guests take hours talking about the subject, drinking wine, and sharing vinyl gems from their collections.

Musical Meetings

The second Wednesday of every month at 5:30 pm is dedicated to live ancient music. These nights are a perfect cultural space to share ideas, meet new people, and practice some Spanish language. 

If you didn’t know anything about the Colombian music of yesteryear, musical meetings are the perfect spot to learn about it. Some of the genres you can enjoy are:

• Bambuco
• Opera
• Zarzuela
• Bolero
• Criolla
• Porro
• Waltz

Bolero Thursdays

One of the most popular events at Salon Malaga, and for which you have to make reservations in advance, are the Bolero Thursdays. This event is a relaxing opportunity to take a sip of your favorite beverage while enjoying live musicians performing beautiful old-world songs.

This bohemian music event attracts locals, foreigners, and audiences of all ages. The atmosphere created around this event is very casual and elegant. Even if you don’t understand Spanish, the bolero is a music genre that doesn’t need words to express emotions and feelings.

Viejoteca

Every Sunday from 2:00 pm, the dance floor is open to anyone who wants to practice a few moves or admire the perfect dance moves of authentic old music lovers. 

Making a Reservation

You only need to book a table on Saturdays, the most popular day of the Salon. On the other days, entry to Salon Malaga is free, and you’ll easily be able to find a place to sit.

To make a reservation, guests must send a bank transfer, a photo of the receipt to Whatsapp, the number of people, the reservation name, and an ETA.

A phone number is located on the website if you have any questions.

Spend an Evening at Salon Malaga 

Without a doubt, Salon Malaga is one of the Medellin must-visits that you cannot miss. If you want to relive the memory of the old Medellin and discover a little more of its musical heritage, spend an evening at this yesteryear music sanctuary. 

So, what do you say? Are you thinking of practicing your dance floor moves at Salon Malaga? Let us know in the comments!

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Not only for grabbing a bite, but this place is also a perfect option to take your friends or partner to events such as concerts, speaking events, dance performances, live music shows, and more.

Are you curious about this place? Then, there’s no time to lose! Let’s get into this uniqueness and let your picky eater side run wild!

Brief History of Mercado del Rio

Located in the El Poblado neighborhood, this building was formerly an old soap warehouse from the 30s and is closely involved in the industrialization process of the Medellin. In fact, due to the nearby railway lines operating at that time, the building has a triangular shape.

The remodeling of this place aimed to keep the industrialized style while elegant of that time. On the other hand, the designers wanted to maintain a dynamic indoor design with a steampunk touch.

How to Get There

Luckily, this place is right next to Regional avenue, one of the city’s main highways, it’s just a few miles south of the city’s downtown area, so it’s easy to get there from anywhere in Medellin.

The quickest way to get to Mercado del Rio is taking the metro and getting off at the Industriales station. From there you only have to walk 5 minutes. If you choose to take a bus, just get off at the bus stop on Avenida de Los Industriales and then turn the corner. You’ll be there in the blink of an eye.

As I don’t recommend driving there (because there are only limited and paid parking spots), you can also take a taxi, rideshare app, or use the EnCicla bike system if you’re not a fan of public means of transport.

IG: @mercadodelriomedellin

Address: Cl. 24 #48-28, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia. 

Inside the Gastro Market 

Whether looking for casual dining or a bar to get a round of drinks from strangers, this classy market has an option for everyone.

Restaurants

More than 30 restaurants offer a variety of national and international dishes, so you better bring an empty stomach and an open mind to taste haute cuisine food.

We all know a picky eater! Perhaps this article is describing you! Alas, don’t worry at all. Mercado del Rio is home to the top-notch eateries from Medellin. Tour the halls and food stalls, and you can travel to Spain, Peru, India, Korea,  Japan, and Argentina.

It would be criminal to have lunch or dinner and skip dessert. Fortunately, you can satisfy your sweet cravings with different kinds of candy, ice cream, waffles, and more. Just check out La Creperia and Alfamore, the most popular boutique sweet shops in the market. 

Coworking Cafe

If you’re looking for peace of mind to work in some business, you should look for a seat at Cafe Cowork Mercado, where you can enjoy the best quality Colombian coffee beans and a strong wifi connection.

Plus, they offer a variety of freshly baked desserts and pastries to unleash your sweet tooth.

Bars

After lunch or finishing work, relax with a glass of your favorite drink at any of the bars in Mercado del Rio. Wine, beer, champagne, or cocktails, in any case, you’ll find a new experience of mixology, liquor tasting, and live music to accompany your drink.

It is highly recommended to drop by the terrace where you’ll find Finestre, with the perfect late-night atmosphere and handcrafted drinks that will leave you speechless.

What to Expect

Beyond filling your stomach and fulfilling your cravings, Mercado del Rio is a meeting place for locals and tourists who want to spend time learning a little more about the Antioquian culture. 

Expect to be dazzled by the variety of weekly activities this market prepares for guests.

Workshops

Frankly, you can find workshops related to anything. Not only are there plenty of workshops related to food and alcohol, but there are also shops that are targeted to every part of the public so that you can include the little ones in some workshops.

At the time of my visit, I was able to participate in a kite-making workshop. If you didn’t know, August is the windiest month in Colombia, so children and adults are encouraged to make their kites.

Remember to check out their social networks from time to time to know the monthly schedule and book your place at the workshops. Usually, they’re pretty affordable and fun. Live a little, and don’t hesitate to participate in one!

Live Music Shows

You can find live music shows of all genres giving a soothing and chill atmosphere to your experience. 

Dance Performances

You’ll usually find dance performances at festivals held from time to time in the market, so check the social media pages.

There are typical Colombian dances with fun rhythms and beats anywhere you look.  There’s even an Argentine tango with an international audience. There are countless chances to groove the night away!

Festivals 

Better keep up to date, because many festivals last 1 or 2 days. They’re usually about food and drinks, but others invite the whole family together, such as the pet festival “Silleteros con cola“.

Coffee & Wine Tasting Experience

By far, the most popular activity is wine tasting and dining, since you have the chance to spend the day sharpening your senses and delighting your taste buds with eccentric drinks such as wine and coffee.

Great Food Awaits in Mercado del Rio

Picking up food and gorging yourself with tasty gourmet dishes is easy now that you know about Mercado del Rio, the real food-lover’s paradise. Have fun!

So, are you ready to start your food tour at Mercado del Rio? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

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As a mixologist with years of experience under my belt, I’m here to guide you through the Medellin gin and tonic tour, take advantage of being in one of the most biodiverse countries in the world and add some exotic fruits to your cocktail.

Does this sound like something you might like? Keep on reading to know everything you need about these drinks in Medellin!

What Gin and Tonic Is

Gin and tonic or gin tonic have two main ingredients: gin and tonic water. The drink is served with some ice cubes to give freshness to your drink. Some bartenders also add lemon or orange zest to give an acid touch to the preparation.

Over the years, many variations of this enigmatic drink have emerged.  For example, the Spanish add more ice and dressings, depending on the type of gin. The cocktail is served here in a ball cup or cognac cup. This difference in the cup allows you to appreciate the aromas. 

In other parts of the world, it is common to add juice or a slice of lemon. Mixologists don’t recommend this since citrus destroys the characteristic bubbles of the cocktail.

Just for clarification: Don’t confuse this drink with Tom Collins’ gin and tonic, which uses a sweeter gin called Old Tom.

Brief History of Gin and Tonic 

Believe it or not, the roots of this drink date back to the 1850s, when the British monarchy took over India. British officers frequently suffered from malaria and used quinine powder to prevent, treat and cure it.

Ingredients such as sugar, gin, and soda are added to the drink to sweeten the flavor. 

Currently, the recipe has crossed the seas and has been redesigned by chefs and mixologists around the world, reaching what we know today as gin and tonic.

Fruits, flowers, flavorings, and lots of ice, made this drink a must-try in restaurants and bars worldwide.

The San Francisco World Spirits Winner

The best gin and tonic drinks are right here in Medellin. Juniper, a luxury cocktail brand, started in the San Javier neighborhood, the birthplace of Juan David Zapata, an industrial engineer and bartender with more than ten years of experience.

In San Francisco, there is the World Spirits Competition. There is a big battle for the best spirits and alcohol-based products. Colombia received a double gold medal in the bottled classic cocktails category.

Juniper surpassed brands that have been doing Gin Tonic in England for over 200 years. This win was a massive surprise in the country!

Juan David Zapata currently holds the award for the best bartender of Colombia 2018 and is ranked as one of the ten best bartenders in the world.

Best Gin and Tonic Spots in Medellin

Now that you know more about this drink and its history, it’s time to stop by the best bars and restaurants in the city and delight your taste buds with the best gin and tonic. Let’s take a look a the top picks!

Ammazza Gin Garden

By far, the best spot for gin and tonics in the city.  You’ll want to stay not only for the gin and tonic but also for the chill vibes and good food. This restaurant is perfect for having a meeting with your friends or inviting a date out. 

There are three venues for this restaurant, all located in busy areas of the city:

• Ammazza Laureles
• Ammazza Indiana
• Ammazza Provenza

In addition to Italian haute cuisine, beers, wines, and spirits, they have an extensive menu specializing in gin and tonics.

This extensive menu can be a little overwhelming at first. However, if you don’t know what to order, I recommend asking the bartender. After answering a few questions, the bartender will suggest a cocktail that fits your palate.

A popular pick for the night is the Plymouth. The Plymouth is very balanced in smell and taste. The cocktail has English gin, accompanied by Coriander, orange, and lemon bark.

Website:https://ammazza.cluvi.co/

Address: Cra. 76 #73b – 39, Medellín, Laureles, Medellín, Antioquia

Sputnik Bar

Sputnik proposes a unique space in Medellin with a galactic atmosphere and a new experience to spend a night relaxing with all kinds of drinks offered on its menu.

If you like techno or electronic music, this is the right place. Some of the genres that attract the majority of customers are:

• EBM
• New wave
• Synth-pop
• Electro
• Post-punk
• Cold wave
• Aggrotech

The bar celebrates its happy hour with a local Dj named Watto.  Occasionally, they have small festivals or techno with no cover fee.  Be sure to check their social networks to know which artists will perform.

As for its gin and tonic menu, you’ll find other variations, such as Hendrick’s gin and tonic, a blend of Hendrick’s gin, tonic water, and three thinly sliced rounds of Cucumber.

Website: https://sputnikbar.co/

Address: Av. 33 #76-28, Laureles, Medellín, Antioquia

Get Your Gin and Tonic in Medellin

Whether you want to try a gin and tonic for the first time or dare to put some exotic fruit in your cocktail, Medellin is the perfect place for your gin journey.

Go and find the gin and tonic that best suits your style and taste. Have fun!

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Where can you grab a cup of coffee from the best-tasting beans in the world? As a coffee purist, I’m here to convince you that the Marquee Hotel is the place.

If you find yourself strolling through the El Poblado neighborhood, grab some caffeine while you’re at it! There’s a lot to see. Stay energized. 

Sipping Some Coffee at the Marquee

At the hotel’s restaurant, Abbiocco by Carmen, you’ll have the chance to try a wide variety of coffee beans prepared in different artisan ways. But if you’re craving some lunch, try tasting their Italian-inspired cuisine peppered with Colombian fresh ingredients. 

Pay your respects to the gourmet chefs Carmen Angel and Rob Pevetts and tell them what you think!

The best part of this restaurant is its outdoor seating, decorated with pots and overgrown plants that give a perfect natural atmosphere for a peaceful coffee time.

After looking through the menu, you will understand the popularity of this restaurant. 

Choose to drink the traditional coffee, or go further and try your luck at the Caffe Speziale Menu (available from 9 am to 4 pm). Some of the caffeine classics are:

• Americano
• Espresso
• Macchiato
• Latte 
• Cappuccino
• Cold Brew Abbiocco

Medellin is a country with some of the highest quality beans in the world, Don’t miss the opportunity to try a coffee with a balanced aroma, body, acidity, and flavor.

Depending on the type of coffee you order and the number of servings desired, the waiter will bring the coffee machine you prefer. The options are:

• V-60
• Aeropress
• Chemex
• French press

There are three varieties of coffee offered by Abbiocco. Each one has different profiles, so if you don’t know what your style is yet, you can ask for some help from the barista.

1. Elegant: balanced profile attributed to traditional Colombian fermentation and drying methods.
2. Exotic: fruity profile, with strong flavors from experimental fermentation methods.
3. Gesha: Globally recognized variety characterized by fine attributes: floral aroma and flavor similar to tea.

The Desserts Menu

If you have room for dessert and are craving something sweeter than bitter (but tasty) coffee, the menu here will not disappoint.

The Fresas & nata is an almond sponge cake topped with brow butter buttercream and garnished with local fresh strawberries, jam, Colombian vanilla créme, and macadamias. This choice is an option that takes a rest from the citrus flavors of Colombian coffee.

Another well-known dish is the Affogato. The Affogato is a blend of hazelnut gelato, stracciatella gelato, cocoa, and rum truffle. The waiter will sometimes pour espresso brought directly from Tamesis, a small coffee-producing village southwest of Antioquia.

 Don’t forget about liqueurs such as sparkling wines, cocktails, and snacks!

Coffee Tasting Tour at the Marquee

If you want to get a coffee-tasting experience under your belt while in Medellin, you can book a tour with the best professional baristas in coffee brewing. Luckily, this activity isn’t exclusive to hotel guests, so you can get access to it even if you’re staying somewhere else.

Sip, smell and swirl this experience. It’s an educational yet fun activity to learn a little more about Colombian coffee, harvesting, production, treatment, and grinding until it reaches your morning cup.

Coffee tasting is affordable and only takes about an hour, so it’s perfect for a last-minute adventure. 

Getting to the Marquee Hotel

The Marquee Hotel is in one of the busiest and most hustling neighborhoods of Medellin, El Poblado. The Marquee has scenic walks and other tourist attractions in the city, like Parque Lineal La Presidenta and San Fernando Plaza.

When Using the metro, just get off at the Poblado station and walk for 15 minutes. Taxis or  ride-share apps are other alternatives.

Website:https://marqueemedellin.com/es/marquee-hotel-medellin/

Address: Cra. 38 #9A-13, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia

Go for an Afternoon Coffee at the Marquee

Despite the variety of beautiful cafes throughout El Poblado, your experience in the Marquee will stand out among the others.

Are you planning to visit the Marquee Hotel? What’s your favorite kind of coffee? Let us know in the comments!

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From vegetables with difficult-to-pronounce names to fruits that in other countries are considered a delicacy, you can take a walk around the different stalls around Medellin and experience some of the true paisa cultures.  

So, what do you say? Are you ready to light your taste buds with fresh delicacies directly from the garden? Then let’s look at the top farmer’s markets and bazaars.

Plaza de Mercado La America

Built in 1969, La America is a farmer’s market perfect for rainy days due to its indoor businesses.  Many locals advise visitors o try the Bandera paisa, a typical dish of this part of the country.

Here you’ll not only find a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and traditional legumes from Colombia, but at this market, you can also find other services such as

• Artisan shops
• Coffee shops
• Liquor shops
• Pet shops
• Health food stores
• Tech store
• ATMs

The atmosphere is a little like India. There are crowded markets with people everywhere selling their products and farmers showing their freshest products.

However, what stands out most about this place are the flower shops full of stunning bouquets and gorgeous floral arrangements. The city of eternal spring never disappoints its visitors. 

If you missed the 2022 flower festival, take a walk around this place for a taste of the typical floral art of Medellin.

One of the charms of La America is the healthy nut market, not to mention the delicious aromas you can enjoy when you first step in. It’s the perfect opportunity to try new spices to garnish your dishes or bring home an exotic souvenir.

In addition to tasting the fruits of each small row of food stands, you can stay hydrated while strolling the stalls by tasting the juices (in water or milk) of fruits such as lulo, blackberry, mango, uchuva, guanabana, and many more.

Take the opportunity to have lunch in one of its 14 restaurants! Come hungry!

You can also order food delivery without having to leave your hotel or Airbnb.

Website: https://www.plazalaamerica.com/

Address: Cl. 45 # 79A – 100, La América, Medellín, Antioquia

Placita de Florez

Located in the Comuna 10 or La Candelaria, Placita de Florez is also an old farmer’s market of Medellin that opened in 1891. In its early years, called Mercado de Oriente. The peasants of Santa Elena came to sell the fruits and vegetables of the seasonal harvest.

Despite being a slightly smaller market, Placita de Florez still manages to supply groceries and other family basket products to more than 300,000 residents and tourists in Medellin.

The last floor of the shop has beautiful floral arrangements. Many people also find other pot plants or floral and aromatic plants to grow in their garden.

On the other two floors, you can find a wide variety of foods such as meats, fruits, health food stores, candle shops, sweets, ice cream shops, and much more.

You can even find a small shop where they sell arepas based on different types of corn flour, such as Peto corn or Choclo corn, definitely something new to try on your trip to Medellin.

Website: https://www.placitadeflorez.com/

Address: Carrera 39 # 50-25 Medellín, Colombia

Plaza Minorista Jose Maria Villa

Plaza Minorista is a more authentic experience of an informal farmer’s market. The main goal of the business is for farmers and informal vendors looking to sell their products at better prices.

That is why it’s still one of the most crowded and bustling markets, usually on weekends, when most locals get up early for vegetables.

Being at Plaza Minorista feels like being in a small town filled with rows of small warehouses and other stalls of fruit and vegetable baskets stacked on top of each other.

This market is unique because it hustles and bustles early in the morning. The products are harvested the day before their sale, which makes the quality so fresh!

Many packages arrive early and are transported directly from the truck to the food stall racks.

This market is a great family outing for those looking to taste the most exotic delicacies and chat with the local vendors. 

Website: https://www.plazaminorista.com/sitio/inicio

Address: Calle 55A # 57-80, Medellin, Colombia

Mercado La Presidenta

An outdoor farmer’s market perfect for organic grocery shopping on a sunny day in Medellin. You can also find other items from the family basket, such as natural honey, spices, exotic fruits, juices, and more.

Mercado La Presidenta is in the El Poblado neighborhood. It is a busy spot dedicated to promoting the consumption of green food free of chemicals and preservatives.

Website: https://medialab.eafit.edu.co/raices-medellin/mercado-la-presidenta-2/

Address: Parque Lineal La Presidenta – Cl. 8 #42-25, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia

Enjoy the Farmer’s Markets Tour at Medellin

Whether you want to start a healthier lifestyle or try the most exotic fruits that seem to come from a sci-fi story, you can’t miss this tour that promises to show you a lot of new flavors and textures and teach you something new!

So, what do you say? Will you try your luck in Plaza Minorista or take a quiet walk in La America? Let us know in the comments!

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Plus, the experience of drinking bubble tea in Colombia is different, as this has blended with the wide variety of fruits the country offers.

Are you craving some bubble tea? Then let me walk you through the best bubble tea spots in Medellin. Let’s jump in!

A Brief History of Bubble Tea 

Bubble tea emerged in Taiwan in 1990. Unfortunately, the name of the creator of the delicious drink isn’t known. 

This drink started as popular among teenagers and young people from all over Asia, then spread everywhere. Now you can find Bubble tea shops in every corner of the world. 

You’ll find different types of bubble tea that vary depending on the traditional ingredients of each country. Even in Taiwan, it was declared April 30th as the National Bubble Tea Day.

What’s In It?

There’s a wide variety of bubble tea! The drink has multiple  options, such as  different colors, flavors, and textures. The original consists of ‘boba’ or ‘pearls’ made of yuca or cassava, a very traditional ingredient of Colombia. Boba tea will typically be served with milk tea unless otherwise specified. 

The toppings to choose from are plentiful. There are red beans, syrups, jelly, brown sugar pearls, and milk options, even vegan, gluten-free, or lactose-free. Just pick your favorite and enjoy this highly-customizable drink.

Spots in Medellin for Bubble Tea

Thirsty yet? It’s time to know the best places to get your hands on this yummy beverage.

Momotea

Momotea is a Colombian brand that specializes in its creations of Japanese food and desserts. Momotea offers drinks and bubble tea of traditional Colombian flavors such as maracuya or passionfruit.

There’s always a crowd in Medellin due to its popularity with the culture and food.  Find the best boba shops here:

• Santafe Mall
• Arkadia Mall
• Viva Envigado Mall
• Viva Laureles Mall
• Euro La Frontera

Mendein businesses have vegan options on menus for all customers!  Commitment to helping the planet is significant in Colombia.  Companies use bamboo strays by default. It’s also possible to reuse plastic cups as pots to plant seeds. 

In addition to bubble teas,  other delicatessens  are perfect for grabbing a bite.  The Hong Kong Waffle is highly rated. The most popular dish is a  puffy little bubble covered in chocolate sauce,  ice cream, or both!

Not in the mood for bubble tea? Delight in something maybe more familiar! Try some Italian sodas.  These are the popular sold flavors:

• Maracuya or passionfruit
• Watermelon
• Lychee 

Momotea fan favorite is the Almond Smoothie: vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free. It’s a satisfying alternative for those bubble tea lovers that may have dietary restrictions.

IG: @mimomotea

Poblado Address: Calle 185 No. 45 – 03. Santafe Mall, El Poblado, Medellín Colombia

Teamo Teahouse

If you’re in Viva Envigado Mall, head over to Teamo Teahouse.

Most of the menu is inspired by the Japanese teahouse, with traditional flavors such as oolong tea, matcha tea, black tea, and green tea. Choose from plain tea, or turn your tea into bubble tea for an additional price. Add tapioca pearls to your drink for an extra kick of texture!

Staying in for the day? Buy a 1 L bottle of tea and flavor it, add the toppings and enjoy from the comfort of your hotel or Airbnb.

A comforting recommendation is the Suprema drink,  mixed  with orange, lemon, papaya, pitaya, and maracuya. Overall, there are cozy shops scattered throughout the city. It is easy to find a soothing atmosphere almost anywhere in town. 

IG:@teamoteahouseco

Address: Cra. 48 #32B Sur-139, Envigado, Antioquia

T4 Oviedo

T4 is one of the most prestigious chain stores in terms of bubble tea. T4  started in 2004 in Taiwan and eventually spread overseas.

In addition to traditional flavors such as matcha and milk tea, this chain offers other options not as well known, such as flower tea with rose, osmanthus, and Ophelia aloe.

Please don’t miss out on the Taiwanese specialty drinks! Ask about French pudding milk teas or grass jelly milk teas. You won’t be disappointed!

T4 Oviedo is a perfect place to get some work done, thanks to its strong wifi and board game area. It is known for embodying a relaxing and laid-back atmosphere. 

IG: @t4colombia

Address: Cra. 43a #6s-15, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia

Satisfy your Sweet Tooth With Bubble Tea

Enjoy a variety of flavors with the natural and typical ingredients of Colombia. There are plenty of spots to taste the best bubble tea in the city. 

So, what do you say? What bubble tea shop will you visit first? Let us know in the comments!

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

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There’s no shortage of things to do in Laureles, whether you’re in Medellin for a few days or taking a long vacation.

If you still don’t know or aren’t sure what the best things to do at Laureles are, we’ve got you covered! Keep reading to find out how to avoid boredom during a stay at Factory Lofts!

La 70: Bars and Entertainment

One of the most popular places in the Laureles neighborhood is La 70 or Carrera 70. 

Luckily, Factory Lofts is located just one street away, so you don’t have to worry about staying late at night having a drink or enjoying the countless bars, restaurants, and nightclubs with your friends.

Live music, salsa clubs, and techno joints are just some of the many options you find in this street that runs through the heart of Laureles. You never know what genre of music can sweep you off your feet and get you grooving and boogying on the dance floor.

Overall, this area is a party scene that offers locals and tourists soothing vibes and an opportunity to interact and meet new people.

Best Nightlife Spots at La 70

Since La 70 has so much to offer, we’ve created a small list of the top places to have a drink and a good time in the area:

• La Kasica: La Kasica is a crossover nightclub, which means you can find a diverse mix of traditional genres like merengue with rock’n’roll, which is very cool!
• Oye Bonita: A bar with a tropical vibe perfect for live music lovers. It’s also preferred by many locals to sit and watch their favorite football team match.
• Fonda La Chismosa: Another very well-known paisa nightclub.  Known for the mariachi Saturdays.
• La Charcu: It has a chill atmosphere and a very impressive menu of exotic cocktails.

Take a Break in the Laureles Parks

If maybe you’re not into parties, you can also spend the evening taking a walk around the tiny natural corners of Laureles. The closest parks to Factory Lofts are:

• San Joaquin Park
• Primer Parque de Laureles
• Segundo Parque de Laureles
• Belen Malibu Park

For some, it can be hard to believe that you can find peace and quiet in a busy neighborhood like Laureles. 

However, the small local parks are perfect for getting some exercise, doing some people watching, and enjoying a coffee in the nearby cafes.

If you want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Medellin or have a more family-friendly plan, then the local parks are perfect for you. 

Estadio Atanasio Girardot

Staying at Factory Lofts gives you the advantage of being very close to one of the top must-visit spots of Medellin—the Estadio Atanasio Girardot. 

If you prefer to spend your free time doing some exercise in a more sporty environment, then you can enjoy the services that the stadium offers.

For instance, you can have some fun splashing around in the water complex of Medellin. There you can take a dip in the pool and cool off. 

Or, head over there when a soccer game is on. On game days, the stadium is usually crowded and full of fans of the home team, Atlético Nacional. 

Regardless of the match result, the bars and nightclubs of La 70 will be filled with football fans who want to celebrate victory or drown their sorrows and hope for a better result the next time.

Hiking in Pueblito Paisa

You only have to walk for a few minutes to get to Cerro Nutibara, where you can check out the infamous Pueblito Paisa. It only takes you 15 minutes to reach the top, but it’s quite the workout!

In addition to doing some exercise, going up to the Pueblito Paisa is the perfect opportunity to learn more about the region’s history and the city’s way of life many years ago.

Pueblito Paisa is also a quick way to take a break from urban life and fill your lungs with fresh air, as the mountain is surrounded by lush greenery and a healthy environment.

Do Some Shopping in Laureles

If you’re in the mood for me-time or want to renew your wardrobe, you can take a day to do some window shopping or stroll through some of the malls near Factory Lofts:

• Laureles Mall
• Viva Laureles Mall
• Obelisco Mall

Even If you haven’t caught the shopping bug, you can always enjoy the activities they have to offer, such as watching a movie at the cinema or having lunch in one of its countless restaurants.

Explore Laureles During a Stay at Factory Lofts

Now that you know there’s always something to do in Laureles, there’s no excuse not to walk around the neighborhood and enjoy its many activities!

So, what do you think? Do you prefer a crazy party night or a quiet walk in the park? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

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If you’re still hunting for that perfect spot, you might want to check out Noir Cafe Bar & Lounge. This café is a cozy place designed for those who want to drink a dark, Italian-style espresso and enjoy their surroundings for a little bit.

Does this sound like your kind of place? If so, let’s take a look at this Medellin must-visit!

What to Know About Noir Cafe Bar & Lounge

When I first stepped up into this coffee shop, I noticed the American vibe. In fact, the owners and founders, Hugo and Lidia, are originally from Napa Valley, California. There, they have a vineyard where they grow artisan wine. 

Their experience in winemaking made it possible to dabble in coffee, and they came up with some pretty unique drinks. Here you’ll find many drinks and meals from the US, so it’s a perfect place to have lunch if you miss food from back home.

What stands out most about this famous coffee shop is the quality of their own artisan coffee, which is brought from the mountains of Titiribi and Ciudad Bolivar, two Antioquian towns of Colombia. 

The whole process of cultivation and processing of coffee takes place in the finca La Loma, which is basically a traditional coffee farm. 

How to Get To Noir Cafe

You can find two coffee shop venues, Lalinde and Lleras park. Both cafes are located in one of the most popular neighborhoods, El Poblado, so it’s very easy to walk there, especially if you stay at the Soul lifestyle hotel or the Marquee Hotel.

If you’re at the Marquee, you only need to walk a few streets to get to the Noir Cafe. As you stroll over there, you can enjoy the greenery of the Parque Lleras area.

Also, you can take advantage of the inclined roads if you want to get a workout in. It’s not a long route per se, but you’ll definitely feel it in your hamstrings!

Or, if walking doesn’t sound interesting to you or you’re in a hurry, you can always take a local taxi service or use hotel transportation.

Website:https://www.cafenoircolombia.com/

Lalinde Address: Calle 8 #37a-41, Medellín, Colombia 

Parque Lleras Address: Calle 13 #34-41 Piso 4, Medellín, Colombia 

The Vibes at Noir Cafe

The design of this cafe is inspired by the Château de Noir lifestyle, which is a stunning French palace. You’ll see elegant accents around the café that really bring that ambiance to the shop.

There are things like chaise lounges and ornate gold leaf on the walls that make you feel like you’ve teleported to France!

But definitely what gives a special touch to the place is the patio, especially for those who enjoy outdoor seating. This is a tiny garden that’s secluded from the street, making it great for private events.

The Cafe Noir Menu

I made it clear that in Noir Cafe, you can find all kinds of drinks based on coffee. But, what’s on the menu?

First, I have to say that this menu is pricey. However, the quality of the menu and the cocktail bar make this experience worth living. Here’s a small overview of the menu.

Artisan Coffee & Espresso

All coffees and espressos are made using their in-house coffee brand. Which means you’ll have a wide range of flavors, notes, and aromas in your drink depending on your choice.

Some of the most famous drinks on the menu are the macchiato and espresso because they allow experts and novice coffee tasters to appreciate the quality and flavors of coffee. 

I always order an espresso when I want that punch of flavors and some caffeine to start working. You can also try the 24K gold latte, perfect for those who just want something decadent to sip on.

Noir’s Bakery

Good coffee should always be accompanied by a bun or dessert to balance out the dark flavors. Croissant, lemon tarts, macaroons, and other delicacies are part of the popular Noir Cafe menu.

Something you can’t miss when visiting this coffee shop its seasonal pastries. At the time of my visit, I could try Luis David’s cheesecake. This stuff is divine, so if you get a chance to try it for yourself, I highly recommend it.

Also, you can’t forget Saturday and Sunday brunch, which includes:

• Fresh made starter
• Inspirational entree
• Signature dessert
• Limitless sangria or mimosa

Cocktails

The unique craft cocktails are their specialty. And it’s something to be expected because it’s located in one of the most popular nightlife neighborhoods in Medellin.

Each bartender has their signature drink. In fact, you find many new and innovative mixes that you never thought would taste so good.

Also, if you prefer beer over cocktails, you can try craft beers made in-house by Juan Jose Montoya in collaboration with Chateau de Noir. 

However, the flagship products of Noir Cafe are champagnes and sparkling wines, produced exclusively in Napa, California by the Cafe owners.

The Cuisine

If you want to have lunch, have a snack, or share a charcuterie board with your date, then you should check the haute cuisine menu of Noir Cafe.

I recommend you try the deviled eggs with the goat cheese dip. The food is delicious and definitely makes for a pleasant, light experience. 

Book Wine or Coffee Experiences

If you have some free time and have not yet learned to identify aromas, flavors, bodies, and notes of coffee or wine, then you can schedule the wine tasting experience or coffee classes. Let’s take a closer look at them.

Coffee Classes

The coffee tasting class takes an hour. And you don’t have to worry about the language, as they’re fluent in English, Spanish and Italian.

The lead barista, Deivis, teaches you the entire coffee process from sowing, harvesting, and commercialization until it reaches your hands in a delicious cup of coffee. Also, they offer a discount if you buy a bag of handmade Noir coffee.

Wine Tasting Experience

Cameron, a wine taster with more than 10 years of experience under his belt, teaches you everything you need to know to identify high-quality wines. He’ll walk you through the different wines so that you really notice the subtle flavors.

Delight Your Taste Buds in Noir Cafe

Without a doubt, Noir Cafe deserves its popularity due to its high-quality spirits and haute cuisine that you can enjoy on a classy night out!

Have you already visited this coffee shop? Do you have any other favorite spots you want to share? Let us know in the comments!

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When I go somewhere new I love trying out different breweries, especially craft breweries. There’s something about them that really gives you a feel for the culture and flavors of a city. 

If you’re like me and want to know where to grab a good pint in Medellin, keep reading. Delve into the world of local drinks and learn a little about breweries in this city and the variety of drinks they offer!

Metropole Beer Lab

Courtesy of TripAdvisor

Known as the “Craft Beer Corner”, this place located in the Manila neighborhood offers craft beers from around the world. They also have local beers, which you can get on tap or in bottles. 

The best thing about Metropole is its beer sampler. The sampler features four small glasses of beer, which are perfect if you want to try a few different things. 

There’s more than just beer there, too; this small two-story place has an industrial style and a cozy atmosphere. They have a good pizza menu, too, so if you want to pair your beer with something, you can. 

Cerveceria Maestre

Courtesy of Minube

Known as the first Brewpub in El Poblado, in the south of Medellin, this place began operating in 2017, offering fresh draft beer and lots of rock!

Here, you can order beer in a glass, liter, or pitcher, and you can choose between:

• Hoppy amber
• Bitter
• Hazy IPA
• STOUT
• Irish Red
• The Putas Double IPA

Also, you have lots of snack options to accompany a good beer drink such as empanadas and chicken pies.

Within Ceveceria Maestre’s own offerings, there are three beers: one black, one blonde, and one amber. Each varies in flavor and alcohol content.

If you don’t know what to order, you can also ask for a sampler to help you decide for the next round!

20 Mission Cerveza y Gastropub

20Mission is a craft beer factory that serves nine of its own beers. The beer is so good that they’ve made it onto the menu of great restaurants in Medellin such as OCI and Carmen.

This brewery is located in Barrio Colombia, an area between El Poblado and Ciudad del Rio, and offers a gastropub setting. There, you can enjoy the best of these craft alcoholic beverages accompanied by main dishes and gourmet food.

The place is a great combination of vintage, rustic and industrial, and also has a stage where live performances or tributes to some artists are often held.

You can also attend a beer tasting with or without pairing by reserving a quota so that you learn a little about the beer theme and enjoy your decisions better!

Cervecería Libre

Cerveceria Libre has two pubs where you can enjoy great caft beer: one in Manila and the other in Barrio Colombia, both in the south central part of Medellín.

This brewery offers a variety of tap beers, having three core beers and several other seasonal ones. A few of their brews include: 

• Libre IPA
• Libre Pasion
• Libre Oat Milk Stout
• Hakuna Melosa
• Lardy Hazy IPA

Likewise, in these pubs, you can enjoy your craft drinks with live music and some snacks.

Cerveceria Libre is a pretty bare-bones place in terms of decor. But, that just helps not to distract from the great beer!

This brewery has been awarded national and international prizes at craft beer festivals. If that’s not enough of a reason to order a beer from them I don’t know what is!

Bipolar Brewing

Courtesy of For Medellin Lovers

Bipolar is a slightly different brewery due to the design of its spaces and its modernity. While most of the other breweries on this list are vintage or industrial, this one definitely has a modern design. 

Bipolar Brewing has 15 beers on tap, including:

• Red IPA
• German Pils
• Cali common
• Wheat Beer

In addition, there are beers that they call “star beers”. These are their most recommended beers, and include:

• Coco Porter
• Body Soul
• Heaven Hell
• Pleasure Pain

Bipolar Brewing launched a “Low Gravity” line that offers drinks with a lower percentage of alcohol that are balanced and easy to drink, even if you don’t like strong beverages.

Colombia Craft Brewing Company

Courtesy of Cartagena Explorer

This brewery proclaims itself as the best craft beer in Colombia. In fact, it’s an internationally recognized brewery. 

This place offers beers on tap, and they have cans for takeaway beers if you’d rather drink your brews at home. 

This place is located in El Poblado and is distinguished by an environment full of lights and neon colors. There are both indoor areas and outdoor spaces, so you can take your pick of where to chill out with a beer.

For those who still don’t know much about beer but want to choose a favorite, you can order a tasting paddle. This is a sampler of a few different beers from the brewery. 

Visit a Craft Brewery in Medellin

Medellin might be famous for things like hikes and rides on the metro cables, but it’s also home to some great breweries.

And, there’s a wide range of these types of breweries around the city. So, whether you’re looking for a new hang out spot or you just want to try some new beer, check out a couple of these places.

Let us know your own favorite breweries around Medellin in the comments!

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In Medellin, there are tons of places to practice Spanish, English, and other languages. And, it’s a great way to meet both paisas and people from all over the world!

If you’re in this city and are interested in joining a language exchange meetup, this guide is for you. Here are the best ones around town. 

Vintrash Bar – Gringo Tuesdays

‘Gringos’ is a word that’s used to refer to foreigners. Although in the past the word specifically referred to Americans, you’ll find that most Colombians use it to talk about foreigners in general. 

The Gringo Tuesdays initiative is one of the best and most modern ways to have a language exchange. 

The event takes place in Vintrash, a bar located in Provenza, which is a hotspot for tourists thanks to its great nightlife.

Gringo Tuesdays consist of meeting people from all over the world who are in Medellin and want to socialize and have fluid conversations with people who speak Spanish or other languages.

What’s great about this event is that there are no formalities here.

Just get together to chat, practice languages, and meet people from Medellin and other parts of the world. The group enjoys meetups, music, and cocktails every Tuesday from four in the afternoon until three in the morning.

On gringo Tuesdays the weekly schedule changes. The group organizes different plans such beer pong games, tropical parties, and girl power nights.

The Gringo Tuesday language exchanges are completely free, too. And, once the language learning part is over, you can enjoy the party that Vintrash and Gringo Tuesdays put on for you and your friends.

Barrio Sur – Keep Talking

Barrio Sur’s Keep Talking language exchange is an equally informal yet calmer plan for those wanting to practice a new language. 

This is a place where you can sip on a beer, eat some dinner, and enjoy good conversation without so much partying.

This restaurant-bar located in Envigado offers this program so that Spanish speakers and English speakers can share bilingual experiences.

In Barrio Sur, language exchanges are also held on Tuesdays.

Starting at seven at night, you’ll be split into groups of two to four people so that you can start chatting and learn a new language.

When you’re done with the language exchange, check out the menu and sip on some beer or share a pizza with your new friends!

Dance Free

If you neither want to go to dinner nor go to a party, why not try dancing?

Dance Free is an exchange of languages and dance steps rolled into one. Dance Free is a world-renowned dance and language academy that organizes free face-to-face or virtual language exchanges.

To attend this event, you must check the academy’s calendar and register in advance. That way, you can secure your spot and enjoy a fusion of dance and language learning in El Poblado.

Or, you can join from home or hotel by zoom.

The dance classes last one to two hours, so you’ll really get immersed in a new language. And of course, you’ll get a great workout in!

Dulce Posion

Dulce Posion is an artisan restaurant and bakery located in Laureles.

With a variety of pasta, vegetarian and vegan dishes, Colombian dishes, desserts, and coffees, this homey place offers regular language exchange meetups. Sometimes, they also host karaoke nights.

Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday nights are for language meetups at Dulce Posion. It’s a very calm and informal place to practice languages and meet new people!

The meetups last for four hours, starting at 8 pm and running until midnight. Admission is free, but you’re in charge of paying for any food or drink you order. 

Noah Boutique Hostel – Ondas Medellín

Noah Boutique Hostel helps you lower your inhibitions and ditch the nerves by serving up beer while you practice a new language.

On the rooftop of Noah Boutique Hostel, located in Manila, you’ll find that Fridays are for drinks and language learning.

Starting at seven at night on this rooftop, you can meet new people who speak Spanish or speak other interesting languages. And, you get to do it while enjoying the outdoors and the weather of Medellín!

Admission is free, but we don’t blame you if you want to have a drink to liven up the moment.

Virtual Platforms for Language Exchanges in Medellin

Besides the in-person language exchange meetings in Medellin, there are also platforms and websites that let you connect with people interested in practicing a language in your area.

If you hit things off, you can then take things offline and meet up in person!

Here’s a quick look at the best virtual platforms for language exchanges in Medellin.

Tandem

Tandem is something like a social network. You choose the language you want to practice, your native language, and your current location. Then, you describe your ideal language partner according to your goals and preferred topics of conversation.

It’s great because you find people in Medellin who are looking to practice or perfect their English, just as you want to exchange knowledge in the Spanish language. In other words, you can help each other out while learning something new!

Tandem is completely free, too, so you don’t have to worry about paying money you don’t want to. 

And, you can speak with multiple users at once, and develop real friendships.

Attend a Language Exchange in Medellin

Whether you want to practice a new language with food, some drinks, parties until dawn, or dance, there are exchange meetups out there.

Medellin has many different places where you can attend a language exchange. It’s the perfect way to meet new people from different parts of the world!

Have you already tried one of these language exchange meetups? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

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