Tender pork spare ribs are slow-braised in a rich coconut sauce with caramelized notes. The meat falls easily off the bone and is coated in a glossy, slightly sweet sauce. This is a signature dish at Lemoncillo — reviewers consistently request it and consider it a reason to return. Served with jasmine rice.
Tips from diners
Order this as your main — the meat-to-sauce ratio makes it feel luxurious despite the reasonable price.
A special dish requiring one day's advance notice, this braised pork belly is cooked until fork-tender in a deeply caramelized sauce. The richness and depth of flavor justify the wait. Served with jasmine rice and pickled vegetables to cut the richness. This is the most sought-after dish for regulars.
Tips from diners
Call +57 4 2706980 the day before to order — the chef only makes this for pre-ordered portions.
Eat this slowly and savor the caramelized sauce — pair it with the pickled vegetables to balance the richness.
Tender beef is tossed with rice vermicelli, fresh mint, cilantro, and crisp lettuce. Pickled daikon and carrot provide acidity. A light beef broth is served on the side to pour over or sip between bites. The freshness and balance of flavors is what makes Lemoncillo's version stand out.
Tips from diners
Mix the broth in gradually rather than all at once — it keeps the salad from becoming soggy.
A light, fragrant pho made with fresh chicken broth. The noodles are tender and the aromatic herbs are fresh and vibrant. Each bowl comes with a plate of fresh basil, lime, and fresh chilies to add according to taste. Reviewers consistently praise the authenticity and balance of flavors.
Tips from diners
Squeeze lime and add fresh basil just before eating to brighten the broth.
A fragrant, creamy soup made with coconut milk infused with galangal, lemongrass, and Thai chilies. Tender chicken floats in the silky broth, finished with fresh lime juice. The soup is aromatic and warming without being heavy. This is a popular cold-weather dish.
Tips from diners
Order this on cooler afternoons when you want something warming but light.
Lemoncillo opened in December 2014 when its owner, born in Laos to Vietnamese parents and trained in Germany, discovered Medellín as a backpacker and fell in love with the city. He decided to open a small restaurant where he could prepare traditional Vietnamese recipes learned from his mother. The intimate five-table dining room features simple décor and Vietnamese words translated to Spanish on the walls.
Cash only — there's an ATM nearby on Transversal 33 Sur. The restaurant is exactly where Google Maps says it is.
Only five tables, so Friday and Saturday nights fill quickly. Come early or go for a late dinner after 9pm.
The owner is warm and will talk to you about Vietnam and how he learned to cook from his mother — this is a place to linger.
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