Ajiaco is a unique eatery that aims to transport you to Colombia through a warm, welcoming atmosphere paired with the vivid, bold flavors of Colombian foods. Everything from the carefully crafted menu to the iconic interior design screams reminiscent of the land it looks to emulate.
“Colombian food is very diverse, each region of the country having its own characteristic dishes,” explains Pedro Sabogal, owner of Ajiaco. “This wonderful cuisine offers dishes that have been handed down from generation to generation, influenced by not only indigenous Colombian culture, but Spanish, African and Arab cultures as well. Colombian food is versatile, rich, full of flavor, colorful and comforting.”
When it came to naming the establishment, one thing sprang to mind for Sabogal?Ajiaco. “Ajiaco Colombian Bistro’s namesake comes from the traditional dish (ajiaco) that is typically made with chicken, corn, three varieties of potatoes, and an herb local to Colombia called Guascas,” he explains.
This dish, along with many other traditional Colombian dishes, can be found on the Ajiaco menu. “Some of the most common ingredients we use are: cereals such as rice and maize, potato and cassava, assorted legumes, and meats that including beef, chicken, and pork,” details Sabogal. “Our cuisine also features a variety of tropical fruits such as, lulo, soursop and passion fruit.”
For those looking to get their feet wet with Colombian cuisine, that perhaps haven’t tried it before, Sabogal has a suggestion. “We recommend our Bandeja paisa,” he states. “The main characteristic of this dish is the generous amount and variety of food in a traditional bandeja paisa.” Aside from the origin of the recipes, there is one big distinguishing factor about the food served at Ajiaco. “Our food is unique, it’s fresh and we prepare it when you order,” Sabogal tells us. “We use real food in our dishes and many of the ingredients are imported.”
In addition to a vivid collection of Colombian meal selections, the décor also strikes the flavors of Colombia into your mind. “Our décor is modern,” says Sabogal. “It consists of natural sunlight and cultural artifacts.”
