During my internship this spring, one of my bosses, who is half Colombian, excitedly suggested La Maria Restaurant for Colombian food. Intrigued, a couple of friends and I decided to check it out.
After a drive to Burbank, we arrived at La Maria, welcomed by vibrant yellow, blue, and red tablecloths—reflecting the Colombian flag. The atmosphere was cozy, with colorful Colombian decorations and a mural of an old town square that added a homey touch.
The drink menu was also inviting, featuring everything from malt sodas to homemade coffee. My friend Fabián chose a Pony Malta. It isn’t something I’d typically order, but he enjoyed it. Anna opted for a frozen lemonade that was refreshing but pretty standard.
I went for the Colombian Cafe con Leche. The first sip was decent, but it only got better. Unsweetened and milky with a frothy top, it quickly became my favorite coffee. At $6, it felt worth it given the generous size. My friends ended up ordering their own to enjoy.
To start, we received complimentary tortilla chips and salsa, along with yucca fries that had a delightful texture—like French fries with an added chew. I couldn’t resist trying the chicken empanada. Fried to perfection, it had a crisp outer layer and warm, flavorful chicken that reminded me of comforting chicken soup.
The star of the meal was the Bandeja Paisa, a traditional dish from the Antioquia region. It’s a hefty platter filled with a fried egg, rice, brown beans, avocado, chorizo, grilled steak, chicharron, plantain, and a small arepa. This dish is perfect for sharing or for anyone with a big appetite, and Fabián and I shared it.
Each item on the plate was delicious, but some stood out. The plantains, which I was never a fan of before, surprised me with their soft, starchy sweetness. They complemented the salty flavors perfectly. The grilled steak was also simple yet satisfying, seasoned just with salt and pepper. Each bite was tender, and the chorizo brought a nice herbal twist that left me wanting more.
The chicharron added a wonderful crispy texture—a delightful contrast to the lean meat. Despite my usual aversion to fatty foods, I found it irresistible.
Anna ordered the carne asada platter, which was thicker and juicier than the meat on my plate. It included similar sides but felt lighter than the Bandeja Paisa.
Though La Maria is a bit of a trek from USC, I’m definitely going back. The menu boasts a wide selection of breakfast options, hearty platters, and Colombian drinks. La Maria is a fantastic way to dive into Colombian cuisine.
In recent years, Colombian restaurants have been popping up across the U.S., reflecting growing interest in diverse culinary experiences. A study by The National Restaurant Association shows that international cuisines are among the top choices for diners. Colombian food, with its rich flavors and variety, is becoming increasingly appealing to many.
Pablo Rodriguez is a senior writing about international cuisine in Los Angeles for his column, “Global Gastronomy.”
