Barriga Llena

Antigua, Guatemala

Antigua is a Unesco World Heritage city in the central highlands of Guatemala that’s long attracted visitors to its pastel-painted buildings, fine churches and 17th-century canary yellow Santa Catalina arch. Not to be outdone by this colourful metropolis, Carlos Sosa and Mario Godinez’s Barriga Llena is a vibrant hole-in-the-wall-style eatery that buzzes with people at lunch and dinner (note: it is walk-ins only, so be prepared to queue). Most are here for the legendary pork dumplings, which come with pickled veg and chimichurri. Others swear by the deep-fried buttermilk chicken and crispy fries – don’t forget to order a side of the black garlic mayo – and the homemade caramel flan. This is food cooked with soul in an open kitchen. Wash it down with chicha soda, ice-cold beer or a mezcal sour. There’s often live music, which dials up the atmosphere. It’s little wonder the name of this place comes from the phrase ‘barriga llena y corazón contento’ (‘full stomach, happy heart’).

Key Information

• Average price per person $25
• Lunch and dinner: Tues – Sun
• Visit Barriga Llena's Website

Location

6 Avenida Norte 4, Antigua, 3001