Elcielo Bogotá

Elcielo Bogotá is the Zona G restaurant of chef Juan Manuel Barrientos, at Calle 70 #4-47 in Chapinero, Bogotá, Colombia. Barrientos brings his multi-sensory Elcielo format to the capital, and the meal is a long tasting menu of roughly seventeen interactive courses. Dishes combine Colombian ingredients with molecular technique, and play with scent, texture, temperature and touch, so some courses are eaten by hand, others are finished at the table by staff, and several arrive as surprises. Emblematic moments include the Chocotherapy course, in which diners work with warm chocolate, and desserts built on Colombian cacao and coffee. The format is theatrical and paced, and the meal often runs for several hours, so evenings are best kept free. The dining room is designed to support the show, with dim, atmospheric lighting and staff who explain each course in turn; the mood is playful and immersive rather than hushed, and noise is moderate. Dress is smart casual. The tasting menu costs approximately COP 400,000-560,000 per person (about $126-176) before drinks, and beverage pairings can be added. Dinner sittings run from Tuesday to Saturday, with limited lunch service, and the restaurant is closed on Sundays and Mondays. Reservations are essential and the tasting menu must be booked in advance, so visitors should reserve as early as their dates allow, and earlier for weekends. Guests with allergies or dietary restrictions should state them at booking because the menu is fixed and heavily choreographed. The restaurant is in the Zona G district, close to other well-known dining rooms, and taxis or ride-hailing are the easiest way to arrive. It suits celebrations, adventurous eaters and travellers who want a memorable evening over a quick dinner.