La Tienda del Gordo
La Tienda del Gordo is as neighborhood as bars get in Laureles. The name translates to 'The Fat Guy's Shop,' which tells you everything about the pretension level: zero. Beer is cold and cheap, the empanadas and chorizos are fresh off the grill, and the crowd is the same people who were here yesterday and will be here tomorrow. The outdoor tables face the street, which becomes the entertainment when you're three beers in. It's the kind of place where the owner knows everyone's name and their order. For visitors, it's a window into how paisas (Medellín locals) actually spend their evenings.
What to Expect
A classic tienda de barrio (neighborhood shop-bar) where the chairs are plastic, the beer is cold, and the conversation is warm. Not a destination bar. A real-life experience of Medellín's neighborhood culture.
Pure neighborhood warmth. The most authentic bar experience in Laureles.
Whatever the owner is playing. Usually vallenato or old-school salsa.
Very casual. Overdressing is a faux pas.
Travelers who want to experience Medellín beyond the tourist circuits.
Cash only
Price Range
Beer COP 3,000-6,000, empanadas COP 2,000, chorizos COP 5,000
≈ €0.45–1 / $0.48–1
Hours
Daily from late afternoon to midnight
Insider Tip
Order the chorizo with arepa. Bring cash. Join a conversation instead of observing one. The regulars are friendly and curious about visitors.
Other Venues in Laureles / La 70
Son Havana
Salsa bar and dance club on the La 70 strip with live bands on weekends. Popular with local salsa dancers. A good place to practice if you know the basics.
Bendito Seas
Casual neighborhood bar on Carrera 70 with cheap aguardiente and beer. A local favorite for pre-gaming before hitting the bigger venues on the strip.
El Social
Craft beer bar and casual hangout on La 70 attracting a younger professional crowd. More curated than the typical corner tienda, with Colombian microbrews on tap.
Panorama Rooftop
Rooftop bar with views across the Laureles rooftops. Cocktails and house music on weekends, more relaxed midweek. A step up from the street-level beer spots.