Leo

The story

Crafted with passion, served with love

A Vision Rooted in Colombia's Living Landscape

Founded in 2005, Leo is the culinary brainchild of Chef Leonor Espinosa — a gastronomic concept born from a deep reverence for Colombia's extraordinary biodiversity. Nestled in the heart of Bogotá, Leo is far more than a restaurant: it is, in the chef's own words, "a gastronomic journey through the ethnobotany of the cultures inhabiting Colombia's diverse biomes." Over nearly two decades, Espinosa has woven science, culture, and artistry into one of Latin America's most compelling dining destinations.

CICLOBIOMA: Where Nature Meets the Table

At the heart of Leo's philosophy lies CICLOBIOMA, a concept that explores the profound interconnection between human beings, cultural heritage, and the natural world. Each dish is a study in sustainability and a tribute to Colombia's local communities and economies. Rather than simply drawing inspiration from Colombian cuisine, the kitchen actively honours it — sourcing ingredients from indigenous and Afro-Colombian traditions, celebrating the country's rainforests, wetlands, and highlands through every carefully considered bite.

Tasting Menus Crafted for Discovery

Guests are invited to choose between experiences of five, eight, or twelve courses, each designed for those who appreciate high cuisine grounded in research and experimentation. Pairings can be tailored to personal preference: a Botanical Pairing offers a sophisticated, alcohol-free journey through local flavours, while the Territorio Pairing introduces curated wines and regional beverages. The result is a table experience that is as intellectually stimulating as it is deeply pleasurable.

On the occasion of Leo's twentieth anniversary, a special commemorative menu revisits the foundational dishes that shaped the restaurant's identity in 2005 — available at lunchtime, à la carte, as a warm nod to the origins of this remarkable story.

Recognised Among the World's Very Best

Leo's unwavering commitment to Colombian cuisine and culinary innovation has earned it a consistent place among The World's 50 Best Restaurants, ranking as high as #43 in 2023 — a testament to Chef Espinosa's singular vision and her team's relentless pursuit of excellence. Few restaurants anywhere merge gastronomy, ecology, and cultural storytelling with such grace and conviction.