Maluma Opens Medellín Restaurant Celebrating Colombian Cultural Identity
Colombian singer Maluma inaugurated his new restaurant in Medellín, Casa Eterna de Juancho con Amor, as a tribute to Colombian cultural identity with a menu inspired by the richness of local roots and traditions.
On a vibrant Friday evening, the acclaimed Colombian singer Maluma opened the doors to his latest venture, a restaurant named ‘Casa Eterna de Juancho con Amor’ in Medellín. This new establishment, which Maluma describes as a “declaration of love” for Colombian cultural identity, aims to elevate the nation’s culinary heritage with a menu deeply rooted in its rich traditions.
The grand opening saw an impressive guest list, including the renowned singer Marc Anthony, soccer stars David Ospina and Daniel Muñoz, and urban artist Kapo, who performed his hit ‘Ohnana’ alongside Maluma. The festive atmosphere was electric, celebrating a new restaurant and a passion project for the ‘Sobrio’ and ‘Felices los cuatro’ singer.
“I’m thrilled to have my restaurant. It’s a dream,” Maluma told journalists. I’ve been building this for about three years, as I mentioned on social media, and I can finally show it to the public. It was kept very quiet and secretive, which is why it excites me so much. After three years of complete secrecy, we finally opened. It’s a big surprise.”
Located in Alto de Las Palmas, near the municipalities of Envigado and Rionegro, Casa Eterna was born from the collaboration between Maluma’s company, Royalty World Inc., Berlin Studio, and undisclosed foreign and local partners. The restaurant’s name, translating to ‘Eternal House of Juancho with Love,’ encapsulates Maluma’s vision of a space that celebrates Colombian culture through its culinary offerings.
Casa Eterna promises a gastronomic experience that transports diners to cherished memories with dishes reminiscent of Colombian grandmothers’ recipes, curated by Chef María Antonia Vélez. Her menu blends local, classic, and contemporary flavors, featuring dishes like chorizo ravioli, sustainably sourced Pacific white fish, buñuelos filled with traditional Colombian preparations, house lechona, and criolla paella.
Despite his international stardom, Maluma’s heart remains tied to Medellín. “I don’t live in Medellín, though I wish I did. Every time I visit, I try to feel at home. I can’t ignore the progress of my city. I can’t just invest abroad; I must also return to Colombia, to Medellín, and support the local economy,” the artist emphasized.
A Taste of Home: The Menu and Atmosphere
Maluma’s personal preferences played a significant role in shaping the menu. He revealed his favorite dish is morcilla (blood sausage), inspiring one of the featured items. “I told everyone it had to have my essence without being too literal,” he explained, pointing out special touches like traditional Antioquia hats. Initially, the restaurant was to be named ‘La Fonda de Juancho,’ but after much deliberation, Maluma insisted on something that reflected his essence more closely.
While Casa Eterna was conceived as a family-friendly space, Maluma envisioned it as a vibrant nightspot. “When the action needs to pick up, we have an extraordinary band, a fantastic sound system, and amazing lights,” he highlighted. Spanning 1,000 square meters, the restaurant seeks to “redefine” each Colombian region’s diversity, tradition, and origins.
The creators designed Casa Eterna as an “apology” to traditional Antioquian architecture. It features pedestrian stairways inspired by the stunning Caño Cristales of the Colombian plains. The bar area evokes the dreamy sunsets of the Caribbean coast, creating a comprehensive homage to Colombia. “This is by no means an elitist place; quite the opposite. It’s very inclusive, which was a dream of mine,” Maluma concluded.
Celebrating Colombian Culture: An Inclusive Culinary Experience
The inauguration of Casa Eterna was more than just the opening of a restaurant; it was a celebration of Colombian culture and identity. The meticulously crafted menu, designed by Chef María Antonia Vélez, takes diners through Colombia’s culinary history. Including traditional dishes like buñuelos and lechona alongside contemporary creations like chorizo ravioli underscores the restaurant’s commitment to honoring the past while embracing the future.
Maluma’s vision for Casa Eterna goes beyond serving food. It’s about creating a space to celebrate Colombian culture, traditions, and community. “I wanted this place to feel like home for everyone who visits,” he said. The decor, featuring traditional Antioquia hats and references to iconic Colombian landscapes, reflects this desire to create a space steeped in cultural significance.
The restaurant’s strategic location in Alto de Las Palmas offers stunning views and a serene environment, making it ideal for both locals and tourists. Collaboration with Berlin Studio and other partners ensured that every detail, from the architecture to the menu, was meticulously planned and executed to create a unique and memorable dining experience.
Maluma’s decision to invest in Medellín and create Casa Eterna speaks volumes about his dedication to his roots. By building this restaurant in his hometown, he is contributing to the local economy and creating a space that celebrates and preserves Colombian cultural identity. “I couldn’t think of investing in other places without first giving back to my city,” he shared.
The opening of Casa Eterna also highlights the growing trend of celebrities investing in hospitality ventures, using their fame and influence to create unique experiences for their fans and the general public. For Maluma, this restaurant is more than just a business venture; it’s a personal project that reflects his love for his country and its rich cultural heritage.
As Casa Eterna begins to welcome guests, it is poised to become a landmark in Medellín’s culinary scene. The restaurant’s commitment to inclusivity, cultural celebration, and culinary excellence sets it apart, offering diners a chance to experience Colombia’s diverse flavors and traditions in a single, thoughtfully designed space.
Casa Eterna will likely inspire other ventures that seek to blend cultural heritage with modern dining experiences in the months and years to come. Maluma’s project exemplifies how passion, creativity, and a deep connection to one’s roots can result in a space that not only delights the senses but also honors and preserves cultural identity.
A Grand Opening to Remember
The grand opening of Casa Eterna was a night filled with music, laughter, and vibrant energy that only came from a celebration of something significant. Guests enjoyed a taste of the restaurant’s offerings, danced to live performances, and soaked in the beautifully designed ambiance that pays homage to Colombia’s rich cultural tapestry.
For Maluma, this night culminated years of hard work and a dream realized. “I’m so happy to share this with the world finally,” he said, his excitement palpable. The presence of friends, fellow artists, and local personalities added to the night’s significance, turning it into a celebration not just of a new restaurant but of community, culture, and shared dreams.
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As Casa Eterna opens its doors to the public, it is a testament to the power of dreams, dedication, and a love for one’s roots. Maluma’s restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it’s a place to experience the heart and soul of Colombia, one dish at a time.
