This is the ultimate Colombian meat platter. Crispy chicharrón (fried pork belly), spiced chorizo, seasoned ground beef, red beans, white rice, and a fried egg all arrive on one generous plate. It's heavy, satisfying, and meant for sharing or serious appetites. This is authentic Medellín home cooking translated to Amsterdam.
Tips from diners
This is a massive plate. Share it or plan leftovers. One serving easily feeds two people.
Try to book in advance. The place is small and fills up quickly, especially weekends.
Golden-fried pastry shells with a flaky exterior and tender interior, filled with seasoned ground beef, fresh cheese, or a vegetarian mix. They're crispy, aromatic, and perfect for sharing or eating solo.
Tips from diners
Order a mix: some meat, some cheese, some vegetarian. Great for sharing appetizers.
Hand-made corn cakes griddled until golden, then split and filled with shredded beef, cheese, or a vegetarian mix. Each arepa is warm, slightly crispy outside, and tender inside. They're filling enough as a snack or light meal.
Tips from diners
Order arepas con queso (with cheese) first. They come hot and are the best appetizer before a heavier plate.
Thick-cut fried plantain slices served twice-fried until crispy and golden, alongside creamy avocado guacamole and a side of spiced chorizo. The contrast of crispy plantain, cool guacamole, and savory chorizo is satisfying.
Tips from diners
Patacones are addictive. Order them as a starter, but be careful—you might not have room for the main.
Fresh dorado fileted and grilled, served with creamy coconut-infused rice and golden fried plantains on the side. The fish is tender, the coconut rice has depth, and the plantains add sweetness. It's lighter than bandeja paisa but still satisfying.
Tips from diners
Ask if they have fresh dorado available. If not, they offer other white fish at the same price.
Tropico was opened by the Rodriguez family to bring the warmth and tropical flavors of Colombia to Amsterdam. The restaurant serves traditional Colombian food in a small, often-crowded space on Hoofdweg in Amsterdam-West. Bandeja paisa—the iconic Antioquia region dish—is the signature plate, arriving piled high with chicharrón, chorizo, and ground beef.
The space is small and frequently full, especially Saturdays and Sundays. Book at least 24 hours ahead.
This is a good spot for groups because dishes are designed for sharing. Ask the owner about family-style dining.
Closed Mondays. If you want authentic Colombian food, accept that you need to book ahead and potentially wait a bit. The value is worth it.
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