If you’re planning to attend Expo 2025 in Osaka, make sure to pencil in a visit to the Colombia Pavilion. Why? Three words: Lechona. Empanadas. Pandebono.
Colombia’s culinary scene is vibrant, diverse, and filled with dishes that speak to both history and heart. At the upcoming Expo, the Colombia Pavilion is set to bring some of these beloved foods to center stage. Whether you’re an adventurous foodie or just someone who loves trying flavors from around the world, these three Colombian bites are sure to impress—and possibly become your new favorites.
Here’s a closer look at what to expect—and why these dishes deserve the spotlight.
Contents
1. Lechona – Colombia’s Roasted Masterpiece
Lechona isn’t just food—it’s a cultural icon. In fact, it was recently rated the best pork dish in the world by TasteAtlas 2024 (via Forbes), earning an impressive score of 4.7. And for good reason.
This traditional Colombian delicacy hails from the Tolima region and features a whole roasted pig stuffed with a savory blend of onions, yellow peas, rice, and a carefully balanced mix of spices. The pig is slow-roasted until the skin crisps into a golden shell, encasing a melt-in-your-mouth filling that’s rich, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.
More than just a meal, Lechona is often the centerpiece of Colombian festivals and family gatherings. It’s not served in small portions because it’s meant to bring people together. At Expo 2025, expect a simplified serving, but one that still captures the festive spirit and bold flavor of the original.
2. Chicken Empanadas – The Ultimate Street Snack
Colombian chicken empanadas are one of the country’s most beloved street foods—and it’s easy to see why. Handmade from 100% real corn dough, these golden pockets are generously filled with seasoned chicken, mashed potatoes, onions, tomatoes, garlic, and a signature blend of spices. They’re then deep-fried to crispy perfection, resulting in a crunchy exterior that gives way to a warm, comforting center.
Empanadas in Colombia are more than just food; they’re a daily ritual. You’ll find them at bus stops, bakeries, and corner shops, always ready to be paired with a tangy ají sauce for that extra zing. Whether you’re grabbing one for breakfast or an afternoon snack, they deliver that perfect combination of portability and punchy flavor.
At the Expo, these bite-sized icons will likely be served fresh and hot—ideal for visitors who want to walk, explore, and eat all at once.
3. Pan de Bono – Colombia’s Coffee Companion
Ask any Colombian what goes best with a cup of coffee, and you’ll likely hear one answer: Pan de Bono. This warm, cheesy bread roll is known for its soft, fluffy texture and lightly salty flavor, making it a beloved staple for breakfast or a mid-day treat.
Traditionally made with cassava starch, cheese, and corn, Pan de Bono has a chewy, satisfying bite. However, contrary to popular belief, it’s not gluten-free—as it also contains regular flour. That blend of ingredients gives it its signature texture: springy on the inside, gently crisp on the outside, and perfectly savory throughout.
Colombians often pair it with café con leche or hot chocolate, and it’s not uncommon to see someone enjoying one as part of their daily “onces”—a late afternoon coffee break. At Expo 2025, Pan de Bono will be the go-to choice when you’re looking for something warm, simple, and utterly delicious.
Why These Dishes Matter
Each of these foods offers more than just flavor—they represent Colombia’s unique blend of Indigenous, African, and Spanish heritage. Lechona speaks to a history of abundance and celebration, made for holidays and large gatherings where families reconnect around a shared meal. The use of rice, peas, and spices inside a whole roasted pig reflects both creativity and regional pride.
Empanadas, by contrast, are Colombia’s culinary workhorse: humble, handmade, and full of heart. They’re the food of markets and main streets, quick bites that pack big memories. And their real-corn dough is a direct nod to the country’s Indigenous foodways, maintained proudly through generations.
Pan de Bono is the quiet one of the trio—but no less meaningful. It shows how even a simple snack can carry tradition. From rural bakeries to bustling Bogotá cafés, it’s the bite that comforts, satisfies, and pairs beautifully with one of the nation’s most famous exports—coffee.
A Pavilion Worth Visiting
The Colombia Pavilion at Expo 2025 will be more than a food stall—it’s a cultural experience. Visitors can expect to see music performances, traditional crafts, and immersive stories that reflect Colombia’s rich heritage. And of course, food will be a major part of that story.
These three dishes offer the perfect starting point for anyone new to Colombian cuisine. They’re approachable without being boring, rich in flavor but familiar in structure. The crisp crunch of an empanada, the melt-in-your-mouth richness of Lechona, and the tender pull of a freshly baked Pan de Bono each offer a window into Colombia’s soul.
Beyond the Plate
Trying new foods is about more than novelty—it’s about connection. When you take a bite of Lechona, you’re tasting centuries of family recipes. When you crunch into an empanada, you’re joining a tradition of hand-held snacks meant to nourish and delight. And when you enjoy Pan de Bono with a warm drink, you’re stepping into the rhythm of a Colombian day.
These foods are more than their ingredients—they’re rituals, memories, and stories in edible form.
Ready to Explore?
Expo 2025 Osaka will be one of the year’s most anticipated global events, and the Colombia Pavilion is not to be missed. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious first-timer, these three dishes offer an unforgettable taste of what makes Colombian cuisine so unique.
So come hungry, stay curious, and get ready to fall in love with food that’s as warm and vibrant as the people who make it.
Seriously, don’t miss it.
