best-places-to-eat-in-Quito, Ecuador

Discovering the Flavors of Quito: A Guide to the Best Places to Eat

Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, is a culinary delight that offers a mix of traditional and modern cuisine. From street food to upscale restaurants, Quito has something for every palate and budget. Here are some of the best places to eat in Quito, with a focus on popular street food options.

Street Food Heaven

1. Llapingachos (Pan-Fried Potato Pancakes)

Try these crispy, flavorful pancakes made from mashed potatoes, onions, and cheese at La Casa de los Llapingachos, a small eatery in the historic center. Enjoy with a side of avocado or salsa.

2. Empanadas de Viento (Wind Empanadas)

These flaky, savory pastries are filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. Visit El Quinde street food stall in La Mariscal neighborhood to try these Ecuadorian staples.

3. Ceviche

Fresh seafood is abundant in Quito, and ceviche is a popular dish throughout the city. Head to Cevichería El Chacho in the El Centro neighborhood for a flavorful and refreshing meal.

4. Churros con Cajeta (Fried Dough Pastry with Caramel Sauce)

Indulge in these sweet treats at Churros y Cajeta, a popular street food cart in La Mariscal. Enjoy with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate.

Local Eateries

1. Café Dios No Muere (God is Not Dead Cafe)

This cozy café in the historic center serves traditional Ecuadorian breakfast dishes like huevos revueltos (scrambled eggs with onions and tomatoes) and pan de yuca (cassava bread).

2. La Casa de la Abuela (Grandma’s House)

This family-run restaurant in El Centro offers hearty, homemade-style meals like locro (potato soup), seco de pollo (braised chicken), and arroz con menestra (rice with lentils).

3. El Ventanal

Located in La Mariscal, this casual eatery serves a variety of Ecuadorian dishes, including tortillas de maíz (corn pancakes) and churrasco (grilled beef skewers).

Markets and Food Halls

1. Mercado Central (Central Market)

Explore the vibrant stalls at this bustling market in El Centro, offering a wide range of fruits, vegetables, meats, and prepared foods.

2. La Mariscal Food Hall

This modern food hall in La Mariscal neighborhood features various vendors serving everything from tacos al pastor to empanadas de mariscos (seafood empanadas).

Insider Tips

  • Be sure to try the local fruit, like tomate de árbol (tree tomato) and pitahaya (dragon fruit).
  • Don’t miss the Feria Libre, a weekly market in El Centro offering fresh produce, handicrafts, and street food.
  • For a unique dining experience, visit El Pobre Diablo, a restaurant located in a historic house with a lively atmosphere.

With its rich culinary heritage and diverse eateries, Quito is a food lover’s paradise. From street food to local restaurants and markets, there’s something for every taste and budget. ¡Buen provecho!