Restaurant 1621 (Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena)

Restaurant 1621 is a journey through time, taste, and artistry. Housed within the storied Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena, the restaurant occupies a space that once served as a 17th-century convent. Centuries later, its historic walls have been reimagined as the backdrop for one of the most refined gastronomic experiences in the world.

Honored in 2025 among the TOP 100 Restaurants of the World by Luxury Lifestyle Awards, Restaurant 1621 has earned global recognition for fusing French culinary mastery with Colombian authenticity. Every detail, from the candlelit atmosphere and vaulted ceilings to the jasmine-scented courtyard, creates a setting where romance and history intertwine flawlessly.

The heart of Restaurant 1621 is found in the creativity of Executive Chef Dominique Oudin, whose tasting menus transform local ingredients into edible stories. French techniques elevate Colombian produce, seafood, and spices, resulting in dishes that are as visually striking as they are memorable. Whether it is Caribbean-inspired seafood or a tender Andean cut of beef, each course reflects a delicate dialogue between tradition and innovation.

Complementing this culinary artistry is an award-winning wine program, curated by Head Sommelier Ana María Buitrago. With one of Cartagena’s most celebrated cellars, recognized by Wine Spectator, guests experience pairings that enhance, surprise, and harmonize with each bite.

Service at Restaurant 1621 is equally central to its legend. The team treats hospitality as a fine art, balancing warmth and discretion to create an atmosphere where every guest feels individually cared for. Personalized touches and thoughtful attention ensure that every dining moment becomes extraordinary.

Though acclaimed worldwide, Restaurant 1621 remains deeply tied to Cartagena’s cultural and culinary spirit. Its menus celebrate Colombia’s biodiversity, while its history roots each dining experience in a sense of place.

For those seeking not just a meal but a memory, Restaurant 1621 offers an unforgettable encounter, where past and present meet, where flavors tell stories, and where luxury is defined by meaning.