Leo, Bogota: Colombia on a plate

Leo, nestled in Bogota's upscale Chapinero district in the Colombian capital, takes diners on a culinary expedition through the country's diverse biomes. Helmed by chef Leonor Espinosa - voted World's Best Female Chef 2022 by 'The World's 50 Best Restaurants' jury - this acclaimed restaurant spotlights rare local ingredients like copoazu (cacao relative), arrechon (aphrodisiac drink) and bijao (banana-like plant). Espinosa, an economist and artist by training, weaves anthropology and contemporary art into her dishes and the restaurant's sleek, modern setting.

The tasting menus - 8 or 13 courses - are a masterclass in creative gastronomy. Delicate starters include mussels with coconut and Galerazamba salt, dried shrimp with snails and ants, the latter lending a nutty crunch. Standout mains feature duck jelly with coquindo oil, sourced from the Amazon, and salt from the Manaure Salt Flats.

Leo's menu, 'ciclo-bioma', charts Colombia's ecosystems, highlighting unique species and their culinary potential. A map illustrates Espinosa's sourcing journey, underscoring her commitment to indigenous ingredients.


For drinks, the wine list is extensive, but non-alcoholic pairings - like corozo berry juice or a traditional corn drink - are equally compelling. With its bold flavours and deep cultural roots, Leo is Colombia on a plate.