Silhouette of a liquor bottle, coffee beans, and a house outline on a black background.

Gastronomic Experience at El Arsenal: The Rum Box

The Best Restaurant in Cartagena.

There are 793 restaurants in Cartagena on TripAdvisor and El Arsenal: The Rum Box is #1.

Looking for a different experience in Cartagena?

At El Arsenal: La Caja del Ron, we offer you a unique sensory experience with rum tastings, artisanal chocolate and typical Caribbean cuisine. Located in the heart of Getsemaní, we are the ideal place to dine, toast and celebrate.

A plate with a cooked lamb chop, mashed potatoes with vegetables, and a drizzle of sauce on the plate.
A bartender pours a liquid through a metal strainer into a martini glass.
A glass of pink cocktail with ice cubes, garnished with fresh basil leaves
A plate with French fries, salad with chopped lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, and a dish with creamy sauce and vegetables. Next to the plate is a drink with lime, basil, and a small orange chili pepper, placed on a square coaster.
Three bottles of Licor de Dictador XO on a black shelf, with a blurred background.
Close-up of Mexican stuffed jalapeños topped with cheese and herbs, served with lime wedges and red peppers on a white plate.

Experience the Best of Cartagena: Flavors and Unforgettable Moments in Getsemaní

Looking for unique things to do in Cartagena? Dive into a sensory experience in the heart of Getsemaní, the city’s most vibrant and authentic neighborhood. Our restaurant is more than just a place to eat, it's a space where flavors, culture, and meaningful encounters come together.

From toasting with handcrafted rums to enjoying warm, colorful surroundings full of history, here you'll discover the very best of Cartagena in every detail. This is one of those must-do experiences in Cartagena: the perfect blend of cuisine, cozy atmosphere, and the living essence of the Caribbean.

Perfect for those looking for special things to do in Cartagena, this space is ideal for sharing, enjoying, and letting yourself be carried away by the flavors of the Caribbean. Each visit is a journey filled with taste, history, and emotion simply the best of Cartagena.

Several bottles of liquor on a wooden surface with sunlight coming through a window, some framed pictures on the wall in the background.
People clinking glasses of rosé wine at a celebration or gathering.
Interior scene of a cozy bar or restaurant with warm yellow lighting, hanging bulb fixtures, painted murals on the walls, and several patrons seated at the bar and tables.

What People Are Saying About us

About Us

Black and white logo featuring a rum bottle, coffee beans, and the text 'El Arsenal The Rum Box'.

Who We Are

Welcome to The Arsenal: The Rum Box, your ideal place in Cartagena. Here you'll feel right at home while discovering the authentic flavors of Colombia: artisanal spirits and rich culinary traditions.

An evening at The Rum Box is unforgettable, as comforting as a sip of Ron Parce, the finest rum in the world. The Arsenal: The Rum Box is more than a restaurant: it's Cartagena's number one gastropub.

Founded in 2015 by Abraham Dau, our mission is to revolutionize local hospitality and showcase Colombia's spectacular rum culture.

Located in the heart of Getsemaní, Cartagena's trendiest and most colorful neighborhood, our cozy restaurant is a true gem. We operate two sister establishments, steps away from each other, working together to offer first-class culinary experiences and exceptional cocktails.

Join us on a sensorial journey of Caribbean flavor, culture, and joy.

A woman smiling and pointing towards the entrance of a bar called 'El Arsenal The Rum Box'. She is wearing a dark apron and standing next to colorful signs offering free hugs in front of the bar. Inside, bartenders are preparing drinks with warm lighting.

Free Hugs at the Door

Even in times of social distancing, everyone gets a (metaphorical) hug the moment they arrive at The Arsenal: The Rum Box. From the very first moment, we’ll wrap you in a warm, delicious, and joyful sensory experience that feels just like home.

Feel the Caribbean hospitality from our Rum Box family, sip on refreshing cocktails, and indulge in some of the finest culinary creations in Cartagena.

Assorted seafood dishes, appetizers, and drinks on a table at a restaurant.

Local Flavors, Elevated

Chef Abraham Dau and his talented team set out to exceed expectations, crafting a menu inspired by Colombia’s most traditional dishes all reimagined with a gourmet twist that delights the palate.

Paired with our signature cocktails, every bite and every sip is designed to make your night unforgettable.

Three people sitting at a dining table in a restaurant, enjoying a meal together. The man on the left is smiling and giving two thumbs up. The man in the middle and the woman on the right are also smiling. The table has plates of food, bottles of water, and drinks.

Things to Do in Cartagena: Live a Truly Local Experience

Looking for the best things to do in Cartagena? Discover unforgettable moments with El Arsenal: The Rum Box. From sensory tastings to authentic local flavors, this is more than just a visit it's a deep dive into Cartagena’s soul.

Book your experience and feel the real Cartagena.

Treat Yourself —Try Our Rum Tasting.

Sip on the nectar of the Gods with a premium rum tasting that walks you through the history and brewing processes of Colombia’s most prized alcoholic exports.

A group of seven people smiling and raising glasses in a toast inside a colorful cafe or shop with graffiti-style art on walls and shelves filled with products. They are sitting and standing around barrels used as tables, with a leafy canopy and string lights overhead.

Visit Us

El Arsenal: The Rum Box Calle Arsenal #8b-19, Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia

Hours
Mon to Sat: 12:00 - 1:00
Sun & Holidays: 12:00 - 1:00

Phone
+57 300 811 0700

 

GET TO KNOW OUR MENU

—  STARTERS —

Food designed to share. The best evenings in Cartagena start here.

— Banana Baskets —

A coastal jewel in miniature: crunchy baskets that keep the soul of the southwest of Colombia

COP 42,000

— Pesto Orzo—

Inspired by a coastal afternoon with a Mediterranean flavor, this orzo embraces the butifarra as if they were old friends.

COP 38,000

— Spicy Orzo—

A fusion between classic Italy and Caribbean spiciness; when the grilled chorizo enters the scene, the party begins.

COP 39,000

— Salted Lomito —

Wok with Creole soul and Asian body, bringing with crunchy flavor secrets.

COP $51,000

— Carimañolas De Queso—

From the traditional cuisines of the Caribbean, yucca dough fell in love with coastal cheese and spicy whey and continues to conquer palates every day.

COP $31,000

— Albondigas —

A recipe of the Caribbean grandmothers, where the meat is bathed in nostalgia and the baguette catches the memories.

COP $38,000

— Carimañolas De Chorizo —

A coastal classic that raises the temperature with the spicy charm of chorizo.

COP $32,000

— Breaded Green Tomatoes —

A classic reinvented with Emmental cheese and honey mustard, as if the southern United States knew the Caribbean.

COP $28,000

— Fish Croquettes —

Born by the sea, these fish balls are pure coastal rhythm with an Asian twist.

COP $31,000

— Carpaccio —

They say that every journey begins with a first bite; this carpaccio that was born from the fire of the titoté opens the way to the taste of the Caribbean.

COP $44,000

— Crudes —

— Fish Ceviche —

A wave of freshness with chili, citrus and coconut milk, like diving into the beaches of San Andres.

COP $49,000

— Atun Encostrado—

An oriental experience over Caribbean fire: tuna in sesame crust that seduces with every bite.

COP $55,000

— Coconut ceviche —

Delicately bold: the tuna is bathed in coconut, chili and tropical sun, as if the Pacific and the Caribbean were shaking hands.

COP $55,000

— Passion Ceviche —

Tropical intensity in a single dish: shrimp, sea bass and passion fruit dance in a vibrant and exotic mix.

COP $57,000

Salad with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, corn, and sliced mushrooms on the left side of the plate. Sliced seared tuna topped with black sesame seeds on a green leaf on the right side. A small bowl of soy sauce at the top.

— MAIN COURSES —

— BBQ Pork Chops —

A classic reborn in the Caribbean: juicy ribs bathed in bocadillo and chipotle. A remorseless delicacy

COP $79,000

— Caribbean Steak —

The chimichurri met the tropics, and decided to stay and live on this tender and juicy cut.

COP $83,000

— Salmon Encostrado —

Salmon is dressed up with walnuts and fermented honey, and served as a feast worthy of a celebration.

COP $79,000

— Filet In Passion Fruit Sauce —

A recipe inspired by Caribbean sunsets: fish and passion fruit merge in sweetness and freshness

COP $71,000

— Filet In Mushroom And Shrimp Sauce—

Land and sea come together in this dish with mushrooms, shrimp and the Creole flavor of our coast.

COP $82,000

— Filet in Creole Sauce and Coconut Juice —

A trip to the heart of the Caribbean: sea bass in coconut milk with the sofrito that reminds us of family lunches.

COP $82,000

— Chicken Breast El Arsenal —

The sweetness of the tropical cape gooseberry caresses this breast, which is served with all the flavor of the house.

COP $54,000

— Chicken Breast In Mushroom Sauce —

A recipe of comfort with a taste of home, where mushroom and chicken come together in a dance of softness.

COP $58,000

— "Granitos De Paz" Salad —

Inspired by stories of reconciliation, this salad celebrates peace with grapes, almonds and a touch of blue.

COP $51.000

— Addition —

Addition of Salmon

COP $36.000

Addition of sliced beef tenderloin

COP $32.000

ASK ABOUT OUR LEGENDARY COLOMBIAN RUM & CHOC TASTING

Plate with cooked vegetables, mashed potatoes, and shrimp topped with mushroom sauce

GET TO KNOW OUR DRINKS

—  COCKTAILS —

SIGNATURE COCKTAILS

- Summerango -

White rum, lemon, Angostura bitters, mango syrup and mango hot sauce.

COP $46,000

- Vicherizo -

Viche, passion fruit, ginger, rosemary, amaretto and corozo

COP $45,000

— Sweet Chilli Julep —

Vodka, lime, sweet chilli, basil and tonic

COP $55,000

— Coconut Cream Dream —

Rum, homemade coconut cream, espresso

COP $57,000

— Rum Rouge —

Dark rum, red vermouth, cinnamon and smoked cinnamon

COP $47,000

— Black Pudding —

Sausage infused scotch whisky, thyme syrup, egg white and lime

COP $53,000

— Galera —

Tequila, spicy lulo syrup frosted with red wine salt.

COP $51,000

— Gringo Flamingo —

white tequila,pink peppercorn,citrics fruit and herbal notes.

COP $45,000

— Patilla Pink —

Gin, watermelon, lime, and basil

COP $49,000

— Té Killer —

Tiki tequila, rum, red fruit tea reduction, and bitters.

COP $47,000

— Yellow Mellow —

Rum, pineapple, orange, passion fruit, and Mint

COP $49,000

— Lulo Mojito —

The classic mint mojito with a touch of lulo and ginger.

COP $45,000

— Calipso —

White rum, aguardiente, sugar cane, mint bitters, anise and absinthe spritz.

COP $42,000

— En Four —

Gin, blackberry, anise, cinnamon, lemon.

COP $45,000

— Negroni Di Juan —

(8 years Juan Valdez Rum, Campari, and Vermouth)

COP $51,000

— Tamarindo Star —

Dark rum, mint liqueur, tamarind and cinnamon

COP $41,000

— Passion Rum —

Banana infused aged rum, passion fruit, cinnamon syrop, red wine spritz and peppermint.

COP $46,000

— Jalisco Pink —

Tequila, lemon juice, watermelon, wine salt and basil.

COP $46,000

— Mocktail —

COP $35,000

— Bartender Choice —

COP $66,000

A glass of frothy yellow drink garnished with a sprig of thyme, surrounded by cinnamon sticks, on a wooden serving board with greenery. Another similar drink is partially visible, along with dried citrus slices and a small bottle, all placed on rustic wooden slabs.

— HOUSE SHOTS —

— Chocolate Cake —

Coconut cream blend infused with rum and whisky served with Club Colombia stout beer

COP $37,000

— Wines —

— RED WINE —

"These wines are not sold by the glass."

— Trapiche Reserva —

Pinot noir (Argentina).

COP $269.000

— Joel Gott —

Pinot noir (California).

COP $410.000

— Santa Helena —

Carmenere (Chile).

COP $330.000

— Santa Carolina Reservado Chile —

Merlot.

COP $170.000

— Los Intocables (Barricas de Bourbon) —

Malbec (Argentina).

COP $340.000

— Alma Mora —

Malbec (Argentina).

COP $258.000

— La Celia Reserva —

Malbec (Argentina).

COP $258.000

— Finca Las Moras —

Malbec (Argentina).

COP $180.000

— Yellow Tail —

Shiraz (Australia).

COP $196.000

— La Celia Reserva —

Cabernet Sauvignon (Argentina).

COP $380.000

— Finca Las Moras —

Cabernet Sauvignon (Argentina).

COP $180.000

— Los Intocables (Barricas de Bourbon) —

Cabernet Sauvignon (Argentina).

COP $326.000

— La Celia Pioner —

Cabernet Sauvignon (Argentina).

COP $395.000

— Leyda Reserva —

Savignon Blanc (Chile).

COP $410.000

— Navarro Correa —

Sauvignon Blanc (España).

COP $258.000

— Cousiño Macul Don Luis —

Chardonnay (Chile).

COP $340.000

— WHITE WINE —

"These wines are not sold by the glass."

— Finca Las Moras —

Chardonnay (Argentina).

COP $326.000

— Alma Mora —

Chardonnay (Argentina).

COP $335.000

— Michael Torino —

Torrentes (Argentina).

COP $170.000

— Muga Rioja —

Viura, Garnacha blanca y malvasía de Rioja (España).

COP $420.000

— Ramón Bilbao —

Verdejo (España).

COP $258.000

— ROSÉ WINE —

"These wines are not sold by the glass."

— Cousiño Gris Macul —

Cabernet Sauvignon (Chile).

COP $238.000

— Finca Las Moras —

Syrah Rose (Argentina).

COP $180.000

— La Celia —

Rose (Argentina).

COP $190.000

— CUPS —

- Rosaleda -

Merlot

COP 25,000

- Rosaleda -

Sauvignon Blanc

COP 25,000

— BEER —

—  BBC CAJICA MIEL  —

COP $17,000

THE BEST RUM AND CHOCOLATE TASTING IN THE WORLD

RUM & CHOCOLATE

Enjoy a gastronomic tour of the country's diverse regions on a fun-filled journey through Colombia.

Savor the rich, golden fruits of Colombia's finest spirits with an extra special masterclass that fits perfectly into your evening vacation schedule.

This comprehensive workshop will transport you from your bar stool to the coast and mountains of Colombia with a delicious selection of national rums and chocolates.

A deep dive into the rum culture of the Caribbean, replete with historical knowledge and culinary traditions of Cartagena and the Caribbean.

What’s Included?

  • Tastings last around 1 hour and 45 minutes.

  • The tasting includes the chance to savor 8 rums paired with some sweet and savory treats.

  • On this informative and fun experience you not only get to taste the difference between Colombia’s top rums and savor the country’s organic chocolate treats you will also learn about the origin and the process of making each rum.

Group of men sitting around a restaurant table, some with drinks, in a cozy interior with plants and framed pictures on the walls.
Group of people enjoying a toast at a colorful indoor gathering with barrels used as tables, vibrant wall art, and hanging string lights.
Two bottles of aged rum and a small jar filled with assorted candies on a wooden table, with two glasses of dark liquor and some nuts in front.
A bartender serving drinks to three women during a social gathering at a bar, decorated with greenery and lights.
Group of people sitting around a table in a restaurant or cafe, engaged in conversation, with framed photographs on the wall behind them and shelves with jars in the background.

Rum & Chocolate: A Journey of Irresistible Flavors

A group of people sitting around two colorful barrels in a restaurant or cafe with black and white photographs on the wall behind them.

Imagine exploring Colombia through its most refined and bold flavors. This one-of-a-kind experience blends craft rum and local chocolate in a tasting that awakens all your senses.

Discover what to do in Cartagena while enjoying an experience that blends tradition, taste, and culture in every sip and bite.

Book a Rum Tasting

To book a rum tasting, please make your reservation at least 24 hours in advance.
Send us an email at elarsenalctg@gmail.com with the following information:

  • Number of guests (minimum of two)

  • Preferred date and time

  • Preferred language

We will send you a confirmation email if your requested time slot is available.

You can also call or send us a message on WhatsApp at: +57 300 811 0700

A bartender pouring a drink in a colorful, lively bar with several patrons sitting at the bar counter, some engaging in conversation, and colorful artwork on the walls.
A bottle of Dicador Colombian Rum labeled 16 years, surrounded by cocoa pods and cacao beans on a wooden surface, with a dark blurred background of shelves with bottles.
A bottle of Dictador 18-year-old rum placed on a tree trunk with coffee beans scattered around at a dimly lit bar or liquor store with shelves of liquor bottles in the background.
A group of people gathered around a bar with bottles of liquor on display, smiling and posing for a photo.

Reserve Your Experience at El Arsenal

Enjoy an unforgettable dinner in the heart of Getsemaní

Select the date, time, and number of guests to book your table.

  • Savor a night full of flavor, music, and unforgettable moments.

  • Large group? We’ve got special options just for you

A group of friends enjoying drinks at a restaurant table while a server feeds a person with chopsticks. The group is smiling and appears to be having a good time, with framed black and white photos on the wall behind them.

FAQ

  • Do you offer rum and chocolate tasting experiences?

    Yes! We specialize in unique rum and chocolate tastings. These experiences typically begin with a welcome cocktail, followed by a guided tasting of Colombian rums (some aged between a few weeks to 27 years) paired thoughtfully with artisanal Colombian chocolates and light bites. It’s a sensory journey through flavor and history.

  • How long do the tasting experiences last, and how many people can join?

    The tastings usually run between 45 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes depending on the type of experience. They are tailored for groups ranging from 2 up to 30 guests, ensuring an intimate and engaging atmosphere.

  • Where are you located and what are your opening hours?

    We are located in the heart of Getsemaní, Cartagena, at Calle Arsenal No. 8b-19 (sometimes listed as Carrera 24 #8b-19). We’re open daily from 12:00 pm to 1:00 am, offering plenty of time to dine, drink, and unwind.

  • How can I make a reservation or book a tasting?

    You can reserve your table directly via OpenTable, selecting your date, time, and party size. For rum tasting experiences, please email elarsenalctg@gmail.com at least 24 hours in advance, with:

    Number of guests (minimum two), Preferred date and time, Preferred language

    You'll receive a confirmation if your requested slot is available. You may also call or WhatsApp at +57 300 811 0700.

  • What kind of food and drinks do you serve?

    Our menu blends Caribbean and gourmet flavors—from coastal-inspired starters like “Carimañolas de Queso” and “Banana Baskets” to creative main courses such as “Chicken Breast El Arsenal” and “Sea Bass in Passion Fruit Sauce”.
    On the drink side, we offer inventive signature cocktails like Sweet Chilli Julep and Coconut Cream Dream, alongside artisanal rums and full bar options.

  • Have you received any notable recognition or accolades?

    Yes! In May 2025, El Arsenal: The Rum Box was featured in Condé Nast Traveller’s curated list of “The Best Restaurants in Cartagena”. The editors commended its bold Caribbean flavors and recommended the rum and chocolate tasting experience as a highlight not to miss.