The Bandeja Hacienda (37,900 COP) is the restaurant's signature dish and the reason most people visit. It arrives as a monumental platter containing kidney beans, white rice, chicharrón (fried pork belly), chorizo, ground beef, fried egg, ripe avocado, steamed potato, sweet plantain, arepa, fresh cilantro, lemon, and hot pepper on the side. Hacienda's version is noted for the quality of its chicharrón — fried until crispy but still tender inside — and the balance of all components.
Tips from diners
This plate is designed to feed one person but many find it's enough for two light eaters. Plan accordingly.
Order the full Bandeja Hacienda for the complete experience — the mini version (15,900 COP) is tourist-sized.
The mini bandeja (15,900 COP) is Hacienda's offering for lighter appetites or first-time visitors who want to sample the dish without the full commitment. It includes all the traditional elements but in proportions meant for a single light meal rather than a laborer's fuel.
Tips from diners
The mini bandeja is a good value entry point — still authentic but easier on the wallet and stomach.
Hacienda's ajiaco is a straightforward, warming preparation of Colombia's national soup. Shredded chicken is simmered with corn kernels, red potatoes, white potatoes, and aromatic vegetables to create a clear, flavorful broth. It arrives with rice, diced avocado, and crema (sour cream) to be added to taste.
Tips from diners
Ajiaco on a rainy Medellín afternoon — this is what the locals order.
Hacienda's mondongo is a warming, traditional preparation of this Antioquian classic. Beef tripe is slow-cooked until tender and combined with chunks of yuca (cassava), potatoes, and a broth seasoned with sofrito. It's served with lime and cilantro for customizing the flavor to your preference.
Tips from diners
If you want true comfort food, order the mondongo. It's warming and satisfying.
Sancocho is a traditional Colombian stew and Hacienda's version includes chunks of beef, yuca, plantain, potato, corn, and onions simmered in a rich, savory broth. It's a complete meal in a bowl and reflects the family-cooking tradition of Antioquian home cooking.
Tips from diners
Sancocho is often served at family gatherings — order it to experience how Medellín families eat together.
Hacienda opened in 1991 on Junín Street in the heart of downtown Medellín, in a location with balconies overlooking the buzz of El Centro. The restaurant was built on the promise of serving authentic Antioquian cuisine with consistent quality and has since expanded to 6 locations across Medellín. The original location remains the flagship and is known for its traditional cooking, generous portions, and views of the city.
The Centro location accepts reservations for groups — call +57 4 513 6789 to book ahead. Walk-ins are fine for individuals and pairs at lunch.
The Centro location has historic balconies overlooking Junín Street — request seating at a window to see downtown Medellín.
Hacienda is a centerpiece of Centro lunch culture. Coming here at 12 pm on a weekday puts you in a room full of Medellín businesspeople and families.
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