Food is one of the most powerful ways to experience culture, and in Orlando, the city’s vibrant culinary scene has embraced the bold, comforting flavors of Colombian cuisine with open arms. From bustling downtown cafés to neighborhood bakeries, Colombian snacks offer more than just a bite; they are little windows into a rich culinary heritage filled with warmth, tradition, and unforgettable aromas.
If you’re visiting Orlando, sampling Colombian snacks isn’t just about eating, but about experiencing a culture that celebrates community, family, and the simple joy of good food. The city’s Latin-inspired food scene makes it easy to explore these flavors, whether you’re strolling through a market, stopping by a local café, or planning a weekend brunch. Each dish, from the cheesy comfort of Pan de Bono to the sweet, flaky layers of a Guava & Cheese Quesito, tells a story of Colombia’s diverse regions, from the Andes to the Caribbean coast.
In Orlando, Colombian cuisine has found a special place on menus and in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. These snacks, often paired with rich, aromatic coffee or fresh tropical juices, invite locals and visitors to savor a moment of authentic Colombian life. They are perfect for sharing with friends, enjoying as a midday indulgence, or simply treating yourself to a taste of tradition.
Before diving into where to enjoy these incredible flavors, let’s explore some of the most popular Colombian snacks that are must-tries when you’re in Orlando. Each item offers a perfect balance of comfort, authenticity, and flavor, a delicious way to experience the heart and soul of Colombia right in the heart of Florida.
1. Empanadas – Crispy Pockets of Colombian Flavor
No list of Colombian snacks is complete without the beloved empanada. These golden, crescent-shaped pastries are one of Colombia’s most iconic street foods, famous for their satisfying crunch and savory fillings. Made from cornmeal dough and traditionally stuffed with spiced beef, chicken, or cheese, empanadas are deep-fried to perfection, creating a crispy shell that gives way to a warm, flavorful center.
The best way to enjoy them? With aji, a zesty Colombian hot sauce made from cilantro, lime, and chili. This tangy condiment cuts through the richness of the filling, balancing every bite with just the right amount of heat. In Orlando, empanadas have become a favorite snack for locals craving a taste of home, as well as for anyone looking to discover authentic Latin comfort food.
2. Roscons – Colombia’s Sweet Ringed Pastries
For those with a sweet tooth, roscons are pure perfection. These soft, ring-shaped pastries are a Colombian bakery classic, known for their subtly sweet dough and decadent fillings. Traditionally, roscons come in two irresistible varieties: Arequipe (Dulce de Leche) and Guava & Cheese.
The Arequipe-filled roscón offers a caramel-like sweetness that melts beautifully into the fluffy bread, while the guava and cheese version delivers a tropical flavor that balances sweet and tangy in every bite. With its chewy dough and luscious filling, this pastry is perfect for breakfast or a midday coffee escape, delivering a bite of Colombian warmth in every mouthful.
3. Pan de Bono – The Cheesy Comfort Classic
Few Colombian snacks are as universally adored as Pan de Bono. This small, round bread made from cassava starch, cheese, and corn flour has a chewy texture and a delightfully rich, cheesy taste. It’s the kind of snack that feels both indulgent and comforting, soft on the inside, golden on the outside, and absolutely irresistible when paired with coffee.
Pan de Bono isn’t just limited to its classic form. Many bakeries in Orlando now offer creative twists, such as Pan de Bono filled with Dulce de Leche, Guava, or Nutella. These variations add a sweet surprise to a traditionally savory favorite, blending modern flavor trends with time-honored Colombian recipes. It’s a perfect reflection of Colombian hospitality, simple, flavorful, and always inviting.
4. Pastel de Yuca – A Crispy, Cassava-Based Delight
Colombian cuisine often highlights the versatility of yuca (cassava), and the Pastel de Yuca is a shining example. This golden pastry is made with cassava dough, crisp on the outside and tender inside, and is filled with delicious seasoned beef or cheese. When fried to perfection, it develops a subtle crunch that contrasts beautifully with its soft, savory filling.
With its light, airy consistency, Pastel de Yuca melts in your mouth, offering a comforting yet elegant snack. Often enjoyed hot and fresh with coffee or juice, this handheld pastry provides a perfect balance of simplicity and indulgence, making it a standout treat on any breakfast or snack menu.
5. Quesitos – Flaky Pastries Filled with Creamy Delight
If you’re looking for something light, flaky, and sweet, Quesitos are the go-to Colombian pastry. Made with buttery, puff-pastry dough and filled with a delicate cream cheese mixture, quesitos strike the perfect balance between crisp and creamy.
When baked, the dough puffs up into golden layers that cradle the soft, mildly sweet filling. The result is a pastry that pairs perfectly with coffee, offering just the right touch of sweetness to brighten your morning. Each bite is a reminder of how Colombian desserts effortlessly combine simplicity and sophistication.
6. Buñuelos – The Golden Bites of Celebration
Round, golden, and delightfully airy, Buñuelos are one of the most beloved Colombian treats, especially during holidays, but are enjoyed year-round by locals and visitors. These small cheese fritters are made from a blend of flour, cassava starch, and cheese, giving them a slightly sweet, rich flavor and a springy texture.
Buñuelos are deep-fried until golden brown, resulting in a crispy shell that encases a soft, spongy interior. When paired with coffee or hot chocolate, they create the perfect breakfast or snack combination.
Perfect Companions: Colombian Coffee Creations
No Colombian snack experience is complete without the perfect cup of coffee. Colombian coffee is known worldwide for its rich aroma, smooth flavor, and balanced acidity, qualities that make it an ideal companion to both sweet and savory snacks.
In Orlando’s Colombian cafés, you’ll find everything from strong black coffee to creamy café con leche, as well as modern favorites like mocha frappes, caramel iced lattes, and espresso shots. The pairing of coffee and pastry is more than a tradition. It’s a daily ritual that brings comfort and joy.
The next time you’re savoring a Roscon, Empanada, or Pan de Bono, take a moment to appreciate how the boldness of Colombian coffee perfectly complements each bite.
Indulge in Colombian Flavors at Mecatos Bakery & Café – Waterford Lakes
If reading about these irresistible Colombian snacks has made you crave the real thing, Mecatos Bakery & Café – Waterford Lakes is the perfect place to visit. Located at 12400 Lake Underhill Rd, Unit 103, Orlando, FL 32828, this cozy café brings authentic Colombian flavors right to Orlando’s heart.
Mecatos is known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and a menu filled with traditional Colombian favorites, from crispy empanadas and cheesy Pan de Bono to freshly baked Roscones and creamy Quesitos. Every item is made with care, using recipes that honor Colombian roots while offering a modern café experience that fits perfectly within Orlando’s vibrant lifestyle.
What makes Mecatos Bakery & Café in Waterford Lakes truly special is its dedication to preserving authentic flavors while serving a community that appreciates quality and comfort. Whether you’re stopping in for breakfast, grabbing an afternoon coffee, or meeting friends over pastries, Mecatos delivers the essence of Colombia with every visit.
A Taste of Colombia, Shared with Orlando
Colombian snacks reflect culture, family, and tradition. In Orlando, these treats have found a second home, connecting people through shared experiences and comforting flavors.
Mecatos Bakery & Café has played a big part in bringing these flavors to life in Central Florida. And for those who want to share the experience beyond the café, Mecatos also offers catering services, bringing the same delicious flavors to gatherings and celebrations across the city.
Other Mecatos Locations in Central Florida
Mecatos’ growing presence across Central Florida makes it easy to enjoy authentic Colombian food no matter where you are:
- Apopka: 1725 Ocoee Apopka Rd, Apopka, FL 32703
- Lake Underhill: 7790 Lake Underhill Rd, Unit 101, Orlando, FL 32822
- Lake Nona: 10783 Narcoossee Rd, Suite 125–129, Orlando, FL 32832
- Metrowest: 2900 S. Kirkman Rd, Orlando, FL 32811
- Downtown Orlando: 20 N Orange Ave, Ste 102A, Orlando, FL 32801
- West Colonial/Ocoee: 10151 W. Colonial Dr, Ocoee, FL 34761
- Hoffner/Edgewood: 5645 Hansel Ave, Edgewood, FL 32809
- Curry Ford West: 2904 Curry Ford Rd, Orlando, FL 32806
No matter which location you visit, Mecatos continues to deliver a consistent taste of Colombian authenticity and quality paired with excellent service and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.
So the next time you’re in Orlando and craving something comforting, flavorful, and Colombian, remember, the warmth of Colombia isn’t far away. It’s waiting for you, fresh from the oven, at Mecatos Bakery & Café.
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