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1. Mercado Municipal
An open-air food space with wooden tables set among trees and plants, bringing together different food stalls serving Colombian dishes, including traditional Boyacá plates. The balance of atmosphere, price, and flavour makes it one of the most recommended spots in town.
2. El Solar de la Guaca
Known for its authentic criollo cooking, it's one of the top choices for traditional Boyacá recipes in a warm, colonial setting.
3. La Feria Piqueteadero
The go-to option if you're craving a hearty, traditional piqueteadero-style meal — meats, papa criolla, corn on the cob, and more, served in generous portions to share.
4. Las Buganvillas (Hotel Duruelo)
Villa de Leyva's oldest restaurant, set on a terrace overlooking the entire Saquencipá Valley. It's dedicated to elevating criollo cuisine to a gourmet level — the perfect place to try cocido boyacense or trout in a more refined presentation.
5. La Tienda de Teresa
A classic for a traditional Boyacá breakfast: changua (a traditional soup), arepas, almojábanas, and hot chocolate with cheese — homestyle cooking at accessible prices.
Dishes you can't miss
Cocido boyacense — a traditional stew with different types of potatoes, meat, and corn. Trucha — trout, the region's signature fish, prepared in countless ways. Almojábanas and changua — essential classics of a Boyacá breakfast.
Traveller tip
Many of these spots get busy on weekends and holidays, so if you want to try authentic cocido boyacense without the wait, it's best to arrive early or book ahead.