For a small town, Villa de Leyva has a decent dining selection. Monday through Thursday, hours can be limited and many restaurants close down. When possible, call in advance to check hours.
Villa de Leyva is well known for its charming, popular pastry shops. La Galleta ★, Calle 13 no. 7–03 (www.lagalleta.com.co; tel. 8/732-1213), is famous for its milojas, a typical Colombian dessert made with a cookie base, cream, and arequipe (dulce de leche). This cozy little coffee/dessert shop hosts jazz and blues musicians and is open from noon to 7pm on Monday to Friday and 9am to 9pm on Saturday, Sunday, and holidays. The newly opened Tartas y Tortas, right off the plaza (tel. 315/330-5032), is open Thursday to Tuesday from 10am to 8pm and makes low-fat, low-sugar desserts, in case you’re watching your waistline. This comfortable pastry shop is owned by a friendly couple from Bogotá and specializes in Colombian desserts. Finally, La Pasteleria Francesa, Calle 10 no. 6–05 (no phone), owned by Frenchman Patrice Rio, bakes delicious bread and serves up a variety of quiches and European-style pastries, jams, and chocolates, and it is always crowded on weekends.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
