In recent years the city of Medellin has become a center of growing culinary innovation. Not only is the gastronomic scene rapidly expanding, it’s also bringing new and innovative restaurants with it. Chefs are stepping away from traditional cuisines and venturing into exotic new gastronomic cultures, including foreign flavors. Recently, Asian restaurant Cuon opened its doors to an eager public, gaining instant popularity due to its creative twist on classic Asian cuisine, which ranges all the way from unique risottos to inventive sushi rolls.

By definition, restaurants are meant to serve good food; a restaurant failing to offer quality meals has pretty much defeated its purpose. However, this is not the case with Cuon. Above all else, you can count on delicious and indulging courses from a wide range of Asian dishes.  The truffle salmon nigiri and the mushroom risotto alike have become particularly popular courses amongst loyal clients, who claim it far surpasses similar dishes in other local high-quality restaurants such as Hanami. The signature Cuon nigiri consists of a salmon, truffle oil, and lemon all wrapped up into one rice sushi roll. Its balance of flavors and uniqueness makes it one of the most sought-after sushis in Medellin. On the other hand, the famous mushroom risotto features classic arborio rice cooked with a variety of mushrooms and topped with truffle oil. Upon serving, more truffle oil is added along with parmesan cheese. In comparison to other risottos in town like the ones at La Causa, Cuon’s is clearly a winner. The variety of mushrooms along the truffle oil create a rich flavor that tastes sweet and makes the flavor unique.

As a frequent visitor to city restaurants, I believe overall experience and environment plays a key role in customer satisfaction. To no surprise, Cuon provides customers with a one of a kind experience. From the live music to the thematic decor, Cuon has the unique ability of transporting you with every bite. In addition, the greenery and exclusive bar stand out immediately, creating a comfortable yet exotic atmosphere. Similarly, local restaurant Burdo features live music and a similar ambiance. Yet, Cuon’s Asian theme sets it apart from all other restaurants, allowing it to transport you into an alternate scene.

Cuon is an exceptional addition to the culinary scene in Medellin. However, it is also expensive compared to other similar restaurants. A regular plate usually ranges between thirty and forty thousand pesos. And because plates are actually small, one full meal consists of approximately three or even four plates. For some, the high price range largely discourages them from paying another visit to Cuon. Instead, they would rather go to a less expensive, lower quality restaurant.For example, Nikku is yet another asian restaurant in Medellin that has a lower price range but still, it has incredible quality.Yet, the unique experience and one of a kind meals offered in Cuon more than do justice to its mildly high price.

Cuon has certainly positioned itself as strong competition in Medellin’s vast culinary scene. Not only is it revolutionizing traditional asian cooking techniques, it’s also setting a new customer experience standard. Even though it comes at no small price, it is certainly worth it.