La Boheme - City vibes
Located in the heart of Curaçao's historic center is a hidden gem called La Boheme. It's a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic culinary experience on a budget. When you head to Willemstad, more specifically to Punda, take a stroll down Columbusstraat. Though it’s a relatively small street, you won’t miss it!
We say "experience" because that’s exactly what it feels like. The outdoor terrace, with its bohemian look and vibe, creates a warm, cozy, and welcoming atmosphere. All the action happens outside, where you’re served right on the sidewalk of a pedestrian street, contributing to the lively alley vibe. Surrounded by historic buildings and monuments, the city center’s energy adds to the charm. It’s a special way to experience Willemstad at night. Whether you're having coffee, a smoothie, or a meal, it's the perfect place to relax and watch the world of Curaçao pass by. A mix of locals and tourists alike frequent this spot.
The young, dynamic team is just as diverse and can attend to you in multiple languages. Their friendliness and attentive service stand out. We especially appreciate how many teens are on the team, learning the art of "good service" at this family-owned business, which has Chilean roots—something reflected in the menu.
For starters, we tried the Ceviche, made from a family recipe straight from Chile. The blend of fresh fish, veggies, and herbs was perfectly balanced. It’s a special dish served only on Thursdays during Punda Vibes. For the main course, we couldn’t resist ordering their signature dish, the “La Boheme XL Steak & Cheese”! Their regular club sandwiches are already quite filling, so you can imagine the size of these “fat-bastard”-style sandwiches. Did we mention they also have a dedicated cocktail bar outside? The prices are very affordable, with cocktails like the Mango Mojito priced around fl16. The large glass was perfect, and the taste, as always, was spot-on! The waitress recommended the Pisco Sour, served in a martini glass with a Chilean twist—it was a surprising mix of sweet and sour, yet soothing. You can also enjoy one of their healthy green smoothies throughout the day.
The menu is compact, easy to navigate, affordable, and full of flavor. The portions are generous, with favorites like the club sandwiches and "whoppers," but lighter options like filled arepas, wraps, and salads are also available. La Boheme is open every day except Sunday, serving the same menu all day long for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. On select days, they feature changing specials, so be sure to check their social media for updates. If you're planning to visit on Thursdays during Punda Vibes, it's a good idea to arrive early or make a reservation! For more information or to reserve a table, visit their website.
Review by Nicole van Beusekom
Exploring our island never gets boring! Even for me as a Yu di Kòrsou that has travelled around. My curiosity brings me to new places and I love revisiting old favorites. As a freelance content creator I am passionate about making content through words, images or video. Would you like me to do a review for you? Inquire via [email protected].