Medellín has become a culinary destination for those who want to enjoy meat in its finest forms, and the influence of Latin American cuts has gained tremendous popularity in the city. From the juicy Argentine Bife de Chorizo to the traditional Brazilian Picanha, the flavors of Latin America have seamlessly integrated into the local dining scene. At Denver, we celebrate these iconic cuts and invite you to enjoy them in an experience that honors tradition and quality. Here, we present some of the must-try Latin American meat cuts in Medellín, bringing you a taste of the best asado experiences from across the region.

1. Bife de Chorizo – Argentina

Description: Bife de Chorizo is one of Argentina’s most iconic cuts. Taken from the beef loin, this cut is known for its outer layer of fat, which melts when cooked, enhancing the flavor and keeping the meat juicy and tender.

Why It’s Popular in Medellín: Its juiciness and intense flavor have won over meat lovers in Medellín. This cut is ideal for those seeking a strong flavor profile and a soft texture. At Denver, we prepare it on the grill and serve it with authentic chimichurri sauce, giving our guests an Argentine asado experience right in the heart of the city.

2. Picanha – Brazil

Description: Picanha is a very popular cut in Brazil, especially in traditional churrascarias. This cut is taken from the top part of the rump and is recognized by its “C”-shaped fat cap, which adds flavor and juiciness when grilled over open flames.

Why It’s Popular in Medellín: Picanha has won over diners in Medellín with its combination of tenderness and smoky flavor. At Denver, we prepare Picanha traditionally, bringing out its juicy notes and soft texture—perfect for those who enjoy intense, authentic flavors in their meat.

3. Lomo al Trapo – Colombia

Description: Lomo al Trapo is a traditional Colombian preparation in which beef tenderloin is wrapped in salt and cloth and cooked directly on the embers. This method allows the meat to retain its juiciness while taking on a smoky, slightly salty flavor.

Why It’s Popular in Medellín: As a local technique, Lomo al Trapo represents Colombian tradition at its finest. At Denver, we adapt this technique to preserve the unique flavor and texture of Lomo al Trapo, giving visitors an authentic and memorable taste of Colombian gastronomy.

4. Asado de Tira – Argentina and Uruguay

Description: Asado de Tira is a cross-cut of beef ribs, popular in the asados of Argentina and Uruguay. This cut features a combination of bone, fat, and meat, giving it an intense flavor and tender texture when grilled.

Why It’s Popular in Medellín: Asado de Tira has been well-received in Medellín due to its smoky flavor and juicy texture. It’s ideal for those who enjoy bone-in cuts that offer a rich taste experience. At Denver, we grill it slowly to ensure that each bite is a burst of flavor.

5. Churrasco – Brazil

Description: Brazilian Churrasco is a thin cut usually cooked over high heat to achieve a crispy texture on the outside and juicy meat on the inside. It’s very popular in Brazilian rodizios, where it is served in thin slices directly from the grill to the diner’s plate.

Why It’s Popular in Medellín: The versatility and flavor of Churrasco have made it a favorite choice in Medellín. Its texture and smoky flavor make it perfect for those who want tender meat with a crispy touch. At Denver, we serve it with fresh sides and sauces, offering the perfect pairing with the spirit of Brazilian grilling.

6. Grilled Ribs – Mexico and the United States

Description: Beef and pork ribs are popular throughout Latin America, but in Mexico, they are often marinated with spices and grilled over charcoal, giving them a smoky, spiced flavor. Ribs offer a rich, juicy experience with a touch of sweetness in every bite.

Why It’s Popular in Medellín: Grilled ribs have become popular in Medellín for their distinctive flavor and tender texture. At Denver, we offer a version inspired by Mexican ribs, with a special marinade and cooking time that enhances their flavor and makes them melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Explore the Best Latin American Cuts at Denver

The influence of Latin American meat cuts has enriched Medellín’s culinary culture, offering diners the opportunity to enjoy authentic flavors and traditional preparations. At Denver, we have selected the best cuts from the region and prepared them using techniques that bring out the best in each culture. We invite you to try these cuts at our restaurant and experience a dining journey that celebrates the diversity and flavor of Latin American meat.