During these complicated times, we all seek a change of ambiance and good food. El Zorro y La Gitana suits as a fresh, free-spirited dining spot for those of us who seek quality pizza. Located in Medellin’s infamous La 10, this restaurant may just be the future of pizza in the city.

Pizza restaurants in Medellín seem to be more common every day. El Zorro y la Gitana is unlike any other I’ve been to in the city. Its distinct name draws you in, the diverse menu catches your attention, and it’s appealing character makes it a place hard to forget. Perhaps the best pizza I’ve eaten in the city, and the most attentive service experience I’ve had in awhile, will make your dining at El Zorro y la Gitana a lovely affair.

The restaurant offers only pizzas as main dishes, and they have a diverse variety of flavours and ingredients that compose pizzas unlike others typically found. Each pizza contains eight slices. A friend and I started our dining experience with an entry named “Tostadas”; pesto and parmesan cheese on thin slices of toasted bread. They tasted fresh and delicious, almost identical to Olivia Pizzeria’s signature entry. Afterward, we ordered one pizza, half a flavor called “Rita” and half one called “Rosa”, both vegetarian and thin-crusted. “Rita” is delicious for any cheese-lover, since the cheese used felt completely unpreserved, and the cherry tomato sauce it has delivers a sweet hint. On the other hand, “Rosa” was, for an absolute Italian food addict like me, a very original flavor of pizza. It is the best pizza I’ve had in Medellín. The crust and overall look of the pizzas are similar to those found in the popular Ammazza Restaurant, who alike serves only thin crust pizza. Both restaurants provide the same number of pizza flavors, however, the quality and savoring ingredient choices make El Zorro y la Gitana the future of pizza in Medellín.

The menu is divided in two parts and is short and to the point. The first part is “Pizzas de la gitana”, which are all vegetarian pizzas. The second part, “Las pizzas del Zorro”, are pizzas containing meat. As a vegetarian, realizing they have half of the menu dedicated to veggie food was sensational. The rest of the menu consists of drinks, desserts, and entrees. It has many juices, alcoholic beverages, sodas, and teas to offer. Unlike El Zorro, Olivia has an extensive menu including things like pasta and salads. El Zorro serves only one main dish, thus adding to its originality. 

The place has distinct wall decors that aren’t common around Italian restaurants in Medellín. It has more of a youthful ambiance. Posters and images that fit with the vibe of the restaurant crowd the place. Plants and other greenery hang from the roof. Contrasted with Olivia Restaurant, El Zorro has a more distinct atmosphere. Olivia’s decor is simple and timeless.  El Zorro is a more youthful, inviting spot whether it’s for families or groups of friends.

Arguably, the only negative thing this restaurant has is its location. It’s located in La 10, but not the popular side that overflows with restaurants and bars. It sits hidden at first sight in a street that is seemingly devoid of other restaurants or shops. The street houses only the restaurant, another bar-like place across the street, and a public parking place. The location is plain and completely uninviting. It has limited parking space and no valet. Perhaps Ammazza is more popular since it counts with two accessible locations around Medellín. You’ll sadly only find El Zorro y la Gitana in that street, but hopefully they’ll open another site in a new, better location.

The restaurant manages to follow every COVID-19 protocol perfectly which is very important when considering which restaurants to go to. It has quick service, and the nicest waiters you’ll find. For a revitalizing restaurant and delightful food, this is the place to go.