Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
Bandeja Paisa
Extra Chicken Or Chorizo
Patacones
Colombian Chicharrón
About
El Caimán Gordo
Welcome to El Caimán Gordo, a hidden gem nestled within the lively atmosphere of the St Roch Market in New Orleans. This unique culinary spot brilliantly combines a vibrant dive bar experience with authentic Colombian fare, courtesy of the talented Chef Mark. As you step inside, you may be greeted by the sights of slot machines and the sounds of trivia nights, but don’t let that fool you; the true star here is the exceptional food that awaits.
The menu is a celebration of Colombian flavors, and the reviews speak for themselves. Food enthusiast Cathy K raved about the vegetarian bandeja, a dreamlike plate featuring yucca frita, tostones, a fresh salad drizzled with citrus vinaigrette, and an arepa glistening in butter. Topping it off is a perfectly cooked medium-fried egg, alongside comforting rice and beans all crafted with heartfelt care. It's clear that every dish is made to order, ensuring freshness and quality.
Another happy patron, Rickie L Jones, noted the perfect avocado served with his meal, enhancing the flavors with a slight kick of spice. He appreciated the fresh ingredients and the unique atmosphere of El Caimán Gordo, where quality food meets a dive bar's charm—complete with live karaoke and even haircuts!
For those who crave an authentic taste of Colombia, you simply must try the empanadas. Josh Gamble perfectly described these homemade delights as being made from scratch, with a crispy exterior enveloping delicious fillings. The chicharrones and the light, cheesy arepas have also received consistent praise, showcasing the depth of flavors found throughout the menu.
El Caimán Gordo isn’t just about food; it’s an experience. With its unique setting, exceptional attention to detail, and invigorating atmosphere, every visit is bound to be a culinary adventure—one that you’ll want to relive time and again. Next time you're in New Orleans, don’t miss out on this enchanting fusion of Colombian cuisine and local flair. Your taste buds will thank you.
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ I was in from out of town and hired chef Marc for a private dinner for 16 and it was incredible. He provided a real gourmet experience at our Airbnb, with incredible seafood, salads, and much more. Marc was so professional to deal with and delivered an unforgettable experience. Thank you Marc for making this the highlight of our trip! ”
“ This is the freshest, most delicious Colombian food in the city. Ive only ever ordered it via ubereats, but every single time; its hot and fresh. The steak plato is a favorite, it tastes like they marinate the meat. I cant stress enough how fresh everything tastes; meat quality is fantastic. Also —this is important—they somehow pick the most beautiful and perfectly ripe avocados every time, not a single brown spot,ever. They’re literally perfect. Everything is simple, yet full of flavor. I’ve ordered 5 times and will finally bring myself to St Roch to get it in person soon. Highly recommend. ”
“ Amazing food. Arepas were exceptionally delicious!!! Everything else was very very good! Where else can you get great food at a dive bar with live karaoke and a haircut! Nothing else like it! Check this place out, you won’t regret it. ”
“ I love this place a whole bunch. I live in Colombia part time and this food is AUTHENTIC and deeply delicious! His chicharrones are what I order when I need some comfort ”
“ Man this place is inside the actual bar but don't let that throw you off. Food was on point and definitely well worth it! Will be coming back. Got the bandeja paisa with steak and a side of chicken. Just look at my before and after pics. Did I say I will be coming back? ”
“ The food here is out of this world good!! Was a little anxious at first seeing the slot machines, trivia night in the bar, and was not prepared for the level of amazing food we had. Vegetarian bandeja is the stuff of dreams: BOTH yucca frita and tostones, as well as the freshest salad in the perfect citrus vinaigrette, arepa doused in butter, perfectly yolky medium fried egg, rice, and beans obviously cooked with lots of love. Steak empanada was also great, make sure you let it cool first. Everything made to order and fresh on a banana leaf, even the empanada. The level of attention to detail and execution is impressive. Not missing out on this place whenever I’m in the area. ”
“ Tucked in the fantastic dive bar of the St Roch is a small kitchen that Chef Mark is sending out food with Colombian flair. If you only try one thing you won’t be disappointed with the empanada. Not Goya premade dough discs were harmed because he’s making his delicious crispy empanada dough from scratch. The rest of my plate was just as exciting and delicious. Crispy pork belly, light cheesy arepas, perfectly fried yucca fries and plantains (patacones) with delicious dipping sauces. I would be ordering every night if I lived in the area but I’m glad to have tried them all tonight. ”
“ They avocado was perfect not a bit of brown. The food was fresh and delicious a slight spice and the beans made it better than bland and my friend really enjoyed his chicken. We ordered a side of Rickie and beans an appetizer and a main dish. It’s hard to find quality food in New Orleans. That’s not blasting with crappy music. This tiny place is attached to a bar that is in back of the St Rich market. The bar only takes cash and you have to get your drinks at the bar but other than that, it was seamless and we really enjoyed it. ”