Colombian Cuisine is all about warmth, tradition, and unmatched flavor, that feels like home. Whether you’ve traveled to Orlando from Colombia or you’re just someone looking to explore new tastes, the city offers several spots that bring authentic Colombian flavors right to your table. From baked snacks to sweet treats, Colombian food has something to offer everyone. This article will tell you about some of the must-try Colombian dishes you can find when you’re in Orlando, a foodie adventure that will awaken your senses and satisfy your cravings.
1. Empanadas
Empanadas are one of Colombia’s most beloved snacks, crispy, golden pastries filled with a delicious blend of ingredients. Typically made from cornmeal dough and fried to perfection, Colombian empanadas are often stuffed with seasoned beef, chicken, or cheese, mixed with potatoes and spices. Usually they are served with aji, a traditional Colombian spicy sauce that adds just the right kick. Each bite offers a perfect balance of crunch and flavor, making empanadas the go-to comfort food for many Colombians. Whether you’re enjoying them as breakfast, lunch, or a late-night snack, empanadas are a staple you can’t miss.
2. Buñuelos
Soft on the inside and crispy on the outside, buñuelos are a true Colombian classic. These round, golden cheese fritters are made from a blend of cheese, cornstarch, and eggs, deep-fried until they achieve a perfect, airy texture. Traditionally enjoyed during the Christmas season in Colombia, buñuelos have become a year-round favorite. Their mild sweetness and savory undertones pair perfectly with a hot cup of Colombian coffee. In Orlando, they’re a delightful treat to start your morning or enjoy as an afternoon pick-me-up.
3. Pan de Bono
Pan de bono, or “cheese bread,” is another Colombian favorite that has captured hearts around the world. These warm, chewy rolls are made from cassava flour, cheese, and eggs, giving them a naturally gluten-free texture and a delightful cheesy flavor. They’re best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, when the inside is still soft and slightly gooey. In Colombia, pan de bono is often served for breakfast or as a mid-day snack with coffee or hot chocolate. One bite of this cheesy bread and you’ll understand why it’s a beloved staple in every Colombian bakery.
4. Pan de Queso
Similar to pan de bono but slightly different in texture, pan de queso is another delicious Colombian bread made with cheese and tapioca flour. What makes it special is its perfect balance of crispness on the outside and softness inside. Pan de queso is incredibly versatile, you can enjoy it plain, with butter, or paired with sweet spreads. It’s a comforting and satisfying snack that brings the rich dairy traditions of Colombian cuisine to life. The aroma alone is enough to make you fall in love before you even take your first bite.
5. Roscon de Guava
For those with a sweet tooth, roscon de guava is a heavenly choice. This traditional Colombian pastry is made from a soft, sweet dough filled with guava paste, a tropical fruit filling that adds a beautiful balance of sweetness and tanginess. The pastry is often topped with sugar or cheese for an extra touch of indulgence. Roscon de guava pairs wonderfully with coffee, making it an ideal choice for breakfast or dessert. It’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, with its ring shape and rich golden color that beckons you to dig in.
6. Mallorca
Mallorca is a soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet pastry that originated in Spain and became a beloved treat in Latin American bakeries, especially in Puerto Rico and Colombia. Made from enriched dough with butter, eggs, and sugar, it’s typically baked to a golden perfection and dusted with powdered sugar on top. Mallorca can be enjoyed plain or filled with cheese, ham, or guava for an extra touch of flavor. Its delicate texture and light sweetness make it a perfect companion to a cup of hot coffee or chocolate, offering a comforting bite that melts in your mouth.
7. Pastel de Yuca
Pastel de yuca is a unique Colombian pastry made from cassava dough filled with savory meat and spices, then fried until golden brown. The outside is delightfully crispy, while the inside remains soft and flavorful. The combination of cassava’s subtle sweetness with the savory filling creates a perfect contrast that’s hard to resist. Often served with aji sauce or enjoyed on its own, pastel de yuca is a snack that perfectly captures the creativity and depth of Colombian cuisine.
Where to Find These Delicious Colombian Treats in Orlando
Mecatos Bakery & Cafe Apopka
1725 Ocoee Apopka Rd, Apopka, FL 32703
If you are getting a craving for any of the above food items, the Mecatos Bakery & Cafe Apopka is one of the best places you must try in Orlando. This beloved local spot has become a go-to destination for authentic Colombian flavors, serving both sweet and savory dishes made fresh daily. Mecatos Bakery & Cafe Apopka is well known for its welcoming & warm atmosphere, friendly service, and mouthwatering selection of baked goods. This cozy café & restaurant offers a vibrant and family-friendly environment perfect for breakfast, lunch, or an afternoon coffee break. Guests can enjoy freshly brewed Colombian coffee alongside empanadas, buñuelos, pan de bono, roscon de guava, and many other traditional favorites. The Apopka branch is also specially known for its freshness, consistency, and comfortable ambiance that makes every visit a memorable one.
Mecatos Bakery & Cafe has built its reputation by offering an authentic Colombian experience in Orlando. Traditional Colombian recipes and high-quality ingredients are used to prepare every dish, honoring the essence of Colombian home cooking. From their freshly baked breads to their sweet pastries and authentic coffee, Mecatos ensures that every customer enjoys the homey taste of Colombia right in Central Florida. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’ll find that Mecatos brings a slice of Colombian culture to your table, one pastry at a time.
Beyond the Apopka location, Mecatos Bakery & Cafe has several other locations across Orlando, making its delicious offerings convenient for everyone to enjoy. Each location caters to you the same high standards of quality, service, and authenticity that have made the brand a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Here are the other Mecatos Bakery & Cafe locations across Orlando:
- Mecatos Bakery & Cafe Downtown
- Mecatos Bakery & Cafe Waterford Lakes
- Mecatos Bakery & Cafe Lake Underhill
- Mecatos Bakery & Cafe Lake Nona
- Mecatos Bakery & Cafe Hoffner
- Mecatos Bakery & Cafe Metrowest
- Mecatos Bakery & Cafe Curry Ford West
- Mecatos Bakery & Cafe Ocoee
No matter which location you visit, you can count on enjoying the same authentic Colombian flavors, freshly brewed coffee, and warm hospitality that Mecatos is known for. So next time you’re in Orlando and craving a taste of Colombia, stop by Mecatos Bakery & Cafe, where every bite tells a story of tradition, passion, and home.
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