Alright, guys, let’s talk about one of the most trending restaurants not just in Medellín, but in all of Colombia right now: Casa Eterna. You already know the name behind it, Maluma, the global reggaeton star with proud paisa roots, just like mine.
As a local, I had to see for myself what all the buzz was about. I wanted to know if it was just a celebrity gimmick or if it truly captured the soul of our Antioquian culture. So I booked a table, drove up to the beautiful Las Palmas area, and went in to get the real story.
Here’s my honest experience at Maluma’s restaurant, from the food and the Fonda-style vibe to the service and the prices. This is everything a local or a visitor needs to know before going..
First Off, Is It Just a Celebrity Gimmick?
The first thing when I arrive at the place was, ” This is a very nice place”. this place is more than just a famous name. You can feel Maluma’s tribute to our Antioquian roots everywhere. He even originally called it “La Fonda de Juancho” (after his real name, Juan Luis Londoño), and that spirit is still there.
What I could perceive is that he wanted to add that classic Fonda touch, which is a typical place that represents us as paisas, a special place with live singers, crossover music, rancheras, and popular hits. so I said to myself, this is a well-designed place that represents our culture. The live band was of excellent quality with great sound, creating a vibe that felt both elevated and authentically Colombian. It’s all wrapped in a beautiful design that mixes modern style with details from our culture, like the 200 aguadeño hats at the entrance. It’s 100% Maluma style, but it feels like home.
The Menu: So, How’s the Food?
The food, in my opinion, was delicious. It’s a mix of traditional Colombian flavors with some cool international twists.
Some of the Must-Try Dishes
- Baby beef: Thin tenderloin cut
- Posta Cartagenera: Black beef stew in a sweet “panela” sauce, coconut rice, plantain tostones, house salad, guacamole and sour cream
- St. Louis Ribs: American-style ribs with goldenberry BBQ sauce, coleslaw, marbled potato purée or buttered corn with alioli, Tajín (mild) and grated cheese
- Arroz meloso de mariscos : Anspirado en el pacífico, con bísquet de langostinos y melao de panela, pulpo y camarones tribute to our region’s famous coffee. So good.
My Dish of the Night
I went for a seafood plate with shrimp, prawns, and octopus, served with some nachos. To drink, I just had a classic Club Colombia Dorada. It was a very delicious dish—fresh, flavorful, and exactly what I was in the mood for.
The Vibe: Beautiful Designs & Live Music
The place itself is just very, very nice. The design is a perfect mix of our Antioquian culture and Maluma’s modern brand. You can be dining under a stunning Vertical Orchid Lamp made of 1,000 glass pieces or sitting near the Jungle Courtyard, which has over 700 trees. It’s a feast for the senses, not just the stomach.
The live music really makes the atmosphere. The band plays nightly, and it’s a great mix that gets everyone in a good mood.
Location & Accessibility
Where to Find Casa Eterna
Okay, this is important. Casa Eterna isn’t in the middle of the city. It’s located in a beautiful, rural area on the outskirts of Medellín, specifically up in Alto de Las Palmas on the road to the airport.
- CRUCIAL TIP: When you get your reservation confirmation, they will recommend that you have your return transportation insured. Take this seriously! Since it’s outside the city, it can be hard to get a ride back late at night if you don’t book it in advance.
- Travel Time: From the city center, expect about a 40-50 minute trip by Uber, taxi, or a private car.
- The Area: This eastern part of Medellín is the trendiest area right now; we say it’s where the wealthy people are living. It’s beautiful but spread out.
Let’s Talk Prices: Is It Expensive?
For the type of place, the quality of the food, and of course the Maluma brand, I’d say the prices are what we expected as locals—fair. It’s not cheap, but it’s not crazy expensive either.
| Category | Price Range (COP) | USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Appetizers | 19,000–65,000 | $5–$17 |
| Mains | 58,000–225,000 | $15–$57 |
| Cocktails | 18,000–26,000 | $5–$7 |
| Desserts | 12,000 | ~$3 |
The Service Was a 10/10
I have to give a special mention to the service. Honestly, it was a 10 out of 10. From the staff at the entrance to the waiters and everyone in between, you can see the genuine interest in making sure we, as customers, have an excellent experience. They are attentive, friendly, and professional.
My Personal Tips for Your Visit
If you’re planning to go, here is my personal advice:
Book in Advance. I was able to get my reservation about one week ahead for a Saturday night at 7 PM. For weekends, definitely plan ahead.
Secure Your Ride Home. I can’t say this enough. Pre-book your taxi or driver for your return trip.
Dress Smart Casual. The vibe is chic but relaxed. No need for a suit, but don’t show up in beach clothes.
Go for Any Occasion. I’d recommend it for a date night with your couple, a fun dinner with friends, or even with family and coworkers. It fits any nice occasion.
My Final Verdict
So, in conclusion, guys, would I recommend it? Absolutely.
Go to Casa Eterna if you want a fantastic experience that’s not just culinary, but a treat on a full sensorial level. The vibe, the music, the beautiful design, the top-notch service, and the delicious food all come together to make it a memorable night out. It’s a place that makes you proud of our local culture.
Other Medellin Restaurants options
| Restaurant | Vibe | Specialty | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carolina Restautant | Celebity chic, eco-luxe | Fusion | $20–$75 |
| El Cielo | Fine dining | Molecular gastronomy | $50–$150 |
| OCI.Made | Trendy | Nikkei (Peruvian-Japanese) | $25–$60 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are reservations absolutely necessary?
For a weekend night, I would say yes, 100%. I booked a week in advance for my Saturday visit and it was packed. For a weekday lunch, you might be able to walk in, but I wouldn’t risk it for dinner. Better to be safe and book ahead on their website.
Is it actually a good place to bring kids?
It’s definitely family-friendly, especially for a Sunday brunch or an earlier dinner. The staff is welcoming to everyone. That said, as the night goes on and the live music gets going, it becomes more of an adult, cocktail-hour vibe. So it depends on the time you go.
Is there parking available?
Yes, they have valet parking. Last I checked, it costs around 10,000 COP (which is about $2.50 USD). It’s super convenient since finding a spot on your own up there would be tough.
What are the chances I’ll actually see Maluma there?
Ha, the big question! Look, it’s his place, and he definitely visits when he’s in town, but it’s not a daily thing. Your best bet is to follow the restaurant’s Instagram page. They sometimes post when he’s around, but I would go for the great food and vibe, and consider a celebrity sighting a lucky bonus.
Do they have options for vegetarians?
Yes, they do. The menu has specific vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options clearly marked, so you’ll have good choices to pick from.
If you are looking for other things to do in Medellin take a look at all Medellín tours and excursions in 2025
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